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- - - PUNJAB BECOMES 3rd STATE TO BE FULLY SATURATED UNDER JAN DHAN YOJANA (BANKS ORGANISES 23412 CAMPS TO CREATE AWARENESS AMONG BENEFICIARIES) (29,17,334 ACCOUNTS OPENED TO COVER ENTIRE HOUSEHOLDS IN THE STATE) Chandigarh, December 14 - Punjab has become the 3rd State after Kerala and Madhya Pradesh to open accounts of all uncovered households under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY). In a statement issued here, an official spokesman informed that Punjab Government had achieved another milestone under the dynamic leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Prakash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal by covering all the households under this statewide Yojana. He said in order to cover 54, 76,724 households in the State banks conducted door to door survey with the help of State Government in the urban and rural areas allocated to them. - Ghana invites Sukhbir Badal and leading industrialists to visit countryChandigarh December 14 - Republic of Ghana President Mr John Dramani Mahama has invited Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal along with an official delegation, progressive farmers and 13 prominent businessmen of Punjab from the field of agriculture, food, breweries, textile, technical education, bicycle, business parks and agro based industry to visit the South African country. - DRUG WAREHOUSES SETUP FOR SAFE STORAGE AND TIMELY DISTRIBUTION OF MEDICINES TO THE HOSPITALS---JAYANI · ADOPTS ONLINE INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM · MEDICINES WORTH RS. 70 CRORE WERE SUPPLIED TO THE GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS · ANTI SNAKE VENOM FROM MOHALI WAREHOUSE SUPPLY TO PGIMR AND GMSH CHANDIGARH · ENSURES TRANSPARENCY IN DISTRIBUTION AND PROCUREMENT OF MEDICINES Chandigarh December 14: Punjab Government has set up scientifically designed three regional warehouses at Amritsar, Bathinda and Kharar. These warehouses have been established with the cost of Rs 376.39 lac. Stating this here today Health and Family Welfare Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani said that these regional warehouses have been especially designed to keep stocked medicines protected. Mr.Jayani said that Punjab Government was presently providing more than 300 medicines free in the government hospitals and this number would be increased in the near future. He said that these ware houses have been setup for storage and timely distribution of medicines and putting in place an online inventory management system for ensuring effective online management and monitoring of drug. He also said that Warehouse at Verka, Amritsar has been constructed with the cost of Rs 141.21 lac, Ware house at Bathinda with the cost of Rs 116.53 lac and Ware house at Kharar constructed with the cost of Rs 118.65 lac. Adding further he said that during the last year medicines worth Rs. 70 crore were supplied to the government hospitals for free distribution. Recently the PGIMER, Chandigarh and Govt Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16, Chandigarh were facing acute shortage of Anti Snake venom ( A life saving drug) and Anti Snake Venom were provided by the PHSC to the PGIMER, Chandigarh and GMSH, Chandigarh from Regional Drug Warehouse, SAS Nagar. The Minister said that besides systematic distribution of medicines transparency in the supply & purchase of drugs would also be ensured. He said that these warehouses would be equipped with all ultra modern facilities for safe storage of drugs. With the establishment of these regional warehouses and putting an online inventory management system in place would streamline the procurement and distribution of drugs and consumables. He added that online link between State Headquarter, Regional warehouses and hospitals would be established. This would enable assessment of requirements of drugs as per the past consumption pattern and also identify drugs by generating secret codes and also monitor value of drugs drawn from the stores by the hospitals .Each and every batch of drugs would be easily traceable online tracking of drug inventory at various health institutions in the state and supplier wise track record to provide a profile of suppliers could also be done, he added. ----------------------- FIVE MAIZE DRYER CENTRES TO BE FUNCTIONAL BY NEXT YEAR Chandigarh December 14 : The Punjab government would install 5 units of Maize dryer Centres at a cost of Rs. 8 crore in the state to promote Maize as an alternate crop for Paddy. Disclosing this here today Mr. Tota Singh Agriculture Minister Punjab said that out of the 5 proposed units three have already been set up at Phulgana (Hoshiarpur) Bhogpur and Nakodar. The units at Kapurthala and Macchiwara would be set up shortly. Pointing out further, the Minister said that Maize prices have increased in the past few years as demand has been rising but quality product was not available. This initiative of the state government might encourage farmers to bring more area under maize cultivation. The agriculture minister also demanded that the Union government fix Rs 1,815 a quintal as the minimum support price (MSP) for maize to develop it as an alternative crop to paddy in the state. He also demanded 100 per cent procurement of maize by the Centre on MSP. Elaborating on the diversification programme being carried out by the department, he said the area under maize crop has seen an increase this year. He appealed to the farmers to actively participate in the agriculture camps organised by the department to tap new technologies and derive maximum benefit out of these camps. - Harike wildlife sanctuary to be developed as eco-tourism hub Central Government grants approval for re-introduction of ‘Ghariyal’ in the sanctuary Chandigarh, December 14: The Punjab Government has mooted a project to develop Harike wildlife sanctuary as hub of eco-tourism. Recently a new bird species, Jordan’s Sind Babbler has been discovered in Harike wetland. Stating this, a spokesperson of the Government said that the present eco-tourism plan is the initiative of State Government of Punjab to allow the visitors to have access in the sanctuary area and create awareness among them about the natural resources of the Sanctuary without disturbing the balance of the environment. The main objective of developing eco-tourism in the Sanctuary is to promote awareness about wetland and wildlife conservation amongst the visitors through education and interpretation and to generate livelihood opportunities for people in the periphery of the Sanctuary. According to the spokesperson this project shall be environmentally sensitive, ecologically sustainable. Divulging further details, the spokesperson said that the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India has recently granted approval for re-introduction of Gharial in the sanctuary. Preliminary works are going on to carry forward Gharial re-introduction programme. He also informed that proposed project site has tremendous potential for eco-tourism due to international status of wetland and due to its location on the confluence of Beas and Satluj rivers with the abundance of wild life and migratory birds. It is the only site where Indus River Dolphin and Jordan’s Sind Babbler are found in India and the endangered species like Smooth Indian Otters are also present here. Also , it will be an educative venture for the younger generation which will not only get a practical exposure of ecology but will also get sensitised towards conservation of nature. This activity will be made more attractive and re-creative by establishing watch towers, animal watch cabins, Interpretation centre, nature trail in the bank of rivers, Eco rides, boating and water trail in rivers etc . The spokesperson further said that local youth and local entrepreneurs along the border villages of Harike Wildlife Sanctuary would be encouraged to utilize eco-tourism as employment and Income generating activity. Besides this, Refreshment places, swings, sports and Island stay shall be introduced in the phased and regulated manner which may lead to economic upliftment of the local community in this otherwise backward area. Progressive Farmer scripts success story by adopting crop diversification model of Punjab Government Adopts innovative techniques in dairy farming venture Chandigarh, December 14: The crop diversification model of Punjab Government has started showing results. A farmer of village Bahadarpur in district Roopnagar has been able to script a success story under this model that can become a lesson for evolving far economics where farmers were struck in the debt trap. The progressive farmer Dilbar Singh said that he decide to wriggle out of the vicious crop cycle of wheat and peddy by venturing into Dairy business. He proudly displays 165 milch hybrid cows with average daily yield of around 10 quintals of milk .He said that besides liquid milk,he was focusing on value addition by manufacturing milk derivatives and other milk products mostly for export market Nurturing every cow as his proud asset, he fondly shows a cow of sahiwal breed that yields 40 kg milk daily. Fully conscious of his duty towards his village Dilbar Singh has also established 2 bio gas plants in the village and manufacturing gas from these by mixing bio waste of cows. He said that he is supplying gas to the entire village free of cost and proudly claims that his whole village does not crib whenever there is a hike in LPG price because whole village is LPG free. Divulging further details he said that he has established 2 bio gas plants of 35 square meters. He informed that bio waste of the cows is used and processed for the making of gas and in organic farming also. He is supplying bio gas free of cost for 6 hours in the winter and 24 hours in the summer season since 2011. In one of the most modern bio gas plant ,waste of cows reaches these plants through underground pipes from where the prepared gas reaches about 75 households in the village. He has laid down gas pipeline in the whole village at his own cost and he uses the residue of bio waste plants for organic farming purposes. Giving more information, he said that this residue, which is in liquid form, is sold to the village farmers at Rs. 500 per tanker by scattering it in the fields; one doesn’t need either spray or urea. He informed that the milk of cows is extracted in the milk parlour through modern machines and this milk reaches bulk milk parlour directly through pipes. He said that the dairy farm is totally computerized. He also conveyed that he started this innovative venture in 2010 and now he possesses 165 cows and a 225x90 feet cowshed. Regarding the feed of cows, he said that it is arranged for the whole season at a time. According to him, he has also opened 7 centers for the sale of products manufactured in the dairy farm and products can also be ordered online on the website www.rsfarm.in. He said that he also exports sweetmeats manufactured here to countries like- Canada and United States. Informing that his village bahadurpur has been selected as rural and farm tourism by the state government he said that his future plan is to further diversify into food industry and give fillip to rural tourism.
10 OFFICERS CAUGHT RED HANDED IN GRAFT CASES DURING November · VIGILANCE FILES 5 CHALLANS IN DIFFERENT CASES · HON’BLE COURTS PRONOUNCED SENTENCE IN 3 ANOTHER BRIBERY CASES CHANDIGARH, December 14: The Punjab Vigilance Bureau, in its anti corruption campaign during the month of November has been successful in nabbing 10 officers red handed while receiving the bribe whereas vigilance inquiry in 5 different cases has also been completed and subsequently the challans have been filed. Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that during the month of November, 2014, the vigilance Bureau has intensified its campaign and ten officers/officials were caught red handed accepting bribe. He said that all these officers were booked under Prevention of Corruption Act-1988. He said that one criminal case was also registered against one employee. He said that one case of disproportionate assets was also registered against a government officer. He said that the Vigilance Bureau has also initiated fresh vigilance inquiries in 7 different cases The spokesman further said that during the hearing of another cases filed by Vigilance Bureau, the Hon’ble courts have pronounced sentenced to 3 persons in bribery cases. - JOURNEY OF THE CAVALCADE OF WORLD CUP KABBADI-2014 INDIA, IRAN AND PAKISTAN EMERGES FRONTRUNNER FOR MEN’S TITLE · POOL –B OF MEN’S CATEGORY BECOMES ‘GROUP OF DEATH’ · IN WOMEN CATEGORY INDIA, NEWZELAND AND PAKISTAN IMPRESSED THE AUDIENCE CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 14: After one week of play in Fifth World Kabbadi Cup the pool situation has become much clear as Iran in Men’s category and India in Women’s category reached into the semi-final. An overview of the performance of various teams in this world cup gives indication that India, Pakistan and England in Men’s category are other stronger contender for the semi-final berth whereas in Women category besides host team India, Pakistan and Newzeland have impressed the most. Iran in Men’s category has defeated three teams including America to storm into the semi-final on the other hand Indian contingent has easily won their two league matches on the way to semi-final. Australia managed to register victory in only one match but the teams who lost all their league matches included America and Spain having lost 2 or 3 matches respectively. In Pool B , Pakistan, England and Denmark won 2 matches each and Canada & Sweden emerged victorious in one match each. Argentina has not been successful in winning any of the league matches. This pool termed as Group of Death due to the fierce battles between various teams. In Women category host team India easily stormed into the semi-final by winning all its 2 matches. Denmark won one match whereas Azerbaijan and America lost one match each. Denmark and America are the two other strong contenders for the semi-final berth in this category. In Pool B, Pakistan and Newzeland won 2 matches each. England has to bite dust in two and Mexico in one match. -------- PERFORMANCE CHART OF THE VARIOUS PLAYERS IN WORLD CUP KABBADI-2014 · NEW PLAYERS VYING FOR THE SLOT OF BEST RAIDER AND STOPPER · IN WOMEN CATEGORY NOTABLE FACES LEADING THE CHART CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 14: Fresh masculine faces in this edition of World Cup Kabbadi have left noticeable impressions in every sphere of the game whereas in the women category star players of the previous editions are the flag bearers. Rehman Istaya of Pakistan’s Men team is the leading raider with 28 points and Khalid Hussian of the same team is on the second rank with 27 points. Espino, raider form the Spain’s team stole the hearts of the audience with 26 points, had he not been injured in the third match he would have definitely been on the top ranker. Gurpreet of Canada got 23, India’s Gagandeep Jogewal 20 and Canadian raider Vic key managed to bag 20 points. Varinder Bhura of the Canada is the leading stopper with 12 successful stops. Muztaba from Iran and star stopper from England Sandeep Singh Nangal Ambian have 11 successful stops in their credit. In women category raider Madiha Latif is invincible with 36 points and no other player seems to be near her. Second rank is shared by two raiders Shrisha from Pakistan and Motto from Newzeland with 19 point each. Three stoppers Newzeland’s Saria Fisho, India’s Anu Rani and Pakistan’s Sharia Shah jointly shared the top rank with 12 successful stops each player. ------------ Punjab Government decides to issue provisional registration certificates in place of temporary registration certificates Chandigarh: December 13: The Punjab Transport Department has taken a decision to issue provisional registration certificates in place of temporary registration certificates keeping in view the orders of Hon'ble Supreme Court that the new vehicles being sold at dealer level would not be delivered without the affixing of high security registration plates. Disclosing this here today Punjab Transport Minister S Ajit Singh Kohar said that directions have been given to all the District Transport Officer in the State in this regard. He said that while selling motor vehicles, the dealers of non-transport of motor vehicles will not issue temporary registration certificate to the applicant. The dealer will issue provisional registration certificate (specimen enclosed) regarding that regular number which is issued to the buyer of the vehicle through online system. S Kohar said that temporary registration certificate will only be issued to the residents of other states who will purchase vehicles from within Punjab and during the sale of commercial/transport vehicles the concerned dealer will issue temporary registration certificate regarding that vehicle. He further said that the provisional registration certificate will be valid for 30 days only and the fees of provisional registration certificate will be half the amount of regular registration certificate like temporary registration certificate. After the issuance of provisional registration certificate the details regarding provisional registration certificate will be sent through SMS mode to the M/s Agros impex regarding preparation of high security registration plate of that vehicle so that in stipulated time the HSRP of that vehicle be fixed. Mr. Kohar said that if any motor vehicle owner desires the fancy registration number then he will get his fancy registration number allotted before purchasing the vehicle and he will present the authority letter of concerned DTO in order to get provisional registration certificate of fancy registration number issued. on the basis of that authority letter the concerned motor vehicles dealer will issue provisional registration certificate. If any motor vehicle owner wants to affix his previous vehicles’ registration number on his new vehicle then that person will first take permission regarding this from the concerned DTO office and gave it to the motor vehicle dealer. Regarding the purchase of new vehicle the motor vehicle dealer will issue the provisional registration certificate of that registration number which is to be retained and whose permission had been granted by concerned DTO, add the Minister. The Minister said that in the matter of retaining old registration number, the registration number will be fixed on old vehicle by the concerned DTO office from amongst the ongoing registration series. The high security registration plate affixed on the old vehicle will be surrendered and new . - 5TH KABADDI WORLD CUP IRAN MEN TEAM AND INDIAN EVES SECURE THEIR SEMI FINAL BERTHS IN WORLD CUP MEN SECTION; INDIA THRASHED USA BY 52-29 · SPORTS CULTURE IN PUNJAB FLOURISHING UNDER SAD-BJP GOVERNMENT-KOHAR · KAPURTHALA NURSERY OF KABADDI & PRESENT INDIAN MEN KABADDI TEAM HAS FIVE PLAYERS FROM DISTRICT- DR UPINDERJIT KAUR Sultanpur Lodhi (Kapurthala)/Chandigarh, December 13: Iran men team and Indian women team secured their places for the semi finals by defeating Spain and Denmark respectively during their matches held at jam packed Guru Nanak Stadium, here on Saturday. The Indian mean team also defeated USA by a big margin of 52-29. While addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Mr Ajit Singh Kohar, Transport Minister, Punjab, said that it is only due to the efforts of Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janta Party government that fifth Kabaddi World Cup is being organised in the state. He said that the Punjab government has always promoted sports the state government is also hiring national and international level coaches, who would train the sportspersons from Punjab. He said that sports culture in the state is flourishing under the able guidance of Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal. He said that it is due to the efforts of Punjab government that our mother sport Kabaddi has emerged on the international sports scene and countries like Argentina, Azerbaijan, Sweden, Denmark and several others have now started playing Kabaddi. He said day is not far when Kabaddi would become part of Commonwealth, Asian and Olympics. Dr Upinderjit Kaur, former Finance Minister, Punjab, who was the guest of honour on the occasion, said that Kapurthala district has the proud distinction of producing several international level Kabaddi players and we are proud of them. She said at this could be known from the fact that in the present Indian men team comprises of five players from Kapurthala district which include Captain Sandeep Singh Surakhpuria, Yadwinder Singh, Ranjodh Singh, Gagandeep Gaggi and Sukhjit Singh Bhandal. Mr Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Member of Parliament, also congratulated the Indian eves for reaching the semi finals. Prominent among those present on the occasion included MLA Mr Hari Singh Zira, Chairman Markfed Punjab Mr Jarnail Singh Wahid, Chairman Punjab Traders Board Mr Narotam Dev Ratti, DC Mr Daljit Singh Mangat, SSP Ms Dhanpreet Kaur, Athletics Olympian and DSP Ms Manjit Kaur, Director Sports Mr Tajinder Singh Dhaliwal, Special Secretary (Sports) Mr Shiv Dular Singh, Asistanat Director Sportts Mr. Rupinder Ravi and OSD Sports Mr. Kartar Singh besides several others. MATCH 1: MEN SECTION: IRAN DEFEAT SPAIN 54-27: Iran team dominated the match from the start. By half time, they were already leading by 28-10 and managed to score a victory by a big margin of 54-27. Iranian raiders Behman, Ahmad and Mostafa scored 7 points each, while stoppers Alipeza secured 4 and Mojtaba secured 3 points for his team. For Spain, Raiders Samuel scored 9 and Santiago scored 6 points, while Alejandro secured 3 points for his team. MATCH 2: WOMEN SECTION: INDIA DEFEAT DENMARK 50-16: The Indian eves defeated their opponents Denmark by a big margin of 50-16. Indian raiders Sukhwinder scored 8 while Priyanka scored 3 points for her team and stoppers Anu secured 7 and Mandeep secured 4 for their team. Denmark raiders Mile and Sukanya scored 11 and 1 points respectively, while stopper Maja secured 2 points. MATCH 3: MEN SECTION: INDIA BEAT USA 52-29: The Indian team defeated their opponent USA team by 52-29. By half time, the Indian team was leading by 27-15. Indian raiders Gagandeep Jogewal and Kamaldeep scored 8 points each, while Sandeep scored 7 points, whereas stoppers Sukhjeet secured 4 and Sukhjeet secured 3 points for his team. USA raiders Parminder and Avtar scored 9 and 4 points each while stopper Navpreet secured 2 points for his team. ------------- FOUR MATCHES TO BE PLAYED AT HOSHIARPUR TOMORROW * FIRST MATCH OF MEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN DENMARK & CANADA * SECOND MATCH OF WOMEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN ENGLAND & MEXICO * THIRD MATCH OF MEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN ENGLAND & ARGENTINA * FOURTH MATCH OF MEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN PAKISTAN & SWEDEN * UNION MINISTER MR. VIJAY KUMAR SAMPLA TO BE THE CHIEF GUEST HOSHIARPUR, DECEMBER 13: Four matches of the Fifth Kabaddi World Cup 2014 would be played at Outdoor Sports Stadium at Hoshiarpur on Sunday. Out of these four matches, three would be of men section while one of women section. All the matches would be of pool "B". Union Minister Mr. Vijay Kumar Sampla would be the chief guest on the occasion. State's minister for Jails, Tourism and Cultural Affairs S. Sohan Singh Thandal, CPS (Irrigation) Bibi Mohinder Kaur Josh, CPS (Sports and Youth Services) Mr. Pawan Kumar Teenu, Advisor to CM Punjab Mr. Tikshan Sud, MP Rajya Sabha Mr. Avinash Rai Khanna, MLA S.Surinder Singh Bhullewal Rathan and MLA Smt.Sukhjit Kaur Sahi would be the Guest of Hhonour on the occasion. First match of the day would be of men section and would be played between Denmark and Canada. After losing to England in the first match, Canada had defeated Argentina in the second match. So for staying afloat in Pool "B", Canada would have to win this match at every cost. Second match of the day would be of women section and would be played between England and Mexico. England team would try to win this match as they have already lost both their earlier matches. Third match of the day would be of men section where England would take on Argentina. The fourth and last match of men section of the day would be played between Pakistan and Sweden. After the men section matches of Pool "B" in Hoshiarpur, the situation would get clear as to which team reaches semi finals. In this pool, Pakistan and England teams are leading, while the Canada is reeling behind. Cabinet Minister S. Sohan Singh Thandal and Deputy Commissioner Amit Dhaka visited Outdoor stadium today to have an account of the preparations being made for the players of the world kabaddi cup as well as the viewers. They invited the people to come to see the matches in large numbers. DC directed the officers to perform their duties to the fullest extent so that the matches of world cup could be made a grand success. --------- Everyone bows before the soldiers who laid lives for country- Union Minister Badal -Punjab farmers would not face urea shortage- Harsimrat -Inaugurates Adarsh school worth crores in Boha -Lays foundation stone of road project to be laid at Rs 1 cr. Mansa, Dec 13 : The Union Minister Government of India Mrs Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that everyone bows before the soldiers who have laid their lives safeguarding the country and its due to their contribution that common man is able to live without fear today. She said this while expressing condolences to the family of Naik Jagsir Singh in Boha, who got martyred in Arnia sector of Jammu. The Union Minister first visited the house of former MLA Mr Harbans Singh Datewas to express condolence on sad demise of his elder brother Mr Surjan Singh. While talking to the media persons she said that Punjab farmers would not face any urea shortage. Government has taken up this issue seriously and asked the urea manufacturing units to produce surplus urea. She added that efforts were being made to bring the farmers towards horticulture and the government gives grants to propagate the same. On occasion, the Union Minister inaugurated the Adarsh School at Boha constructed at a cost of Rs 5 cr App. and also laid foundation stone of the Rs 1 cr App. road project under which, 4 kms long road is being laid from Boha to Kasampur Chhina. She added that with the construction of Adarsh School the children from nearby villages would be able to get the best of education. She added that with the laying of road children could easily commute to the school and the other commuters too would be immensely benefitted. Prominent among others present included area MLA Budhlada Mr Chatin Singh Samao, deputy commissioner Mansa Mr Praveen Kumar Thind, SSP Mansa Mr Bhupinder Singh Khattra, SAD district president urban Mr Prem Kumar Arora, SAD president rural Mr Gurmail Singh Paphre Bhaike. ------- Jakhar family has ‘zero’ contribution in development of Abohar-Sukhbir Badal · 40 Years political rule of family results nil output · Punjab witnesses development only SAD-BJP governments · Lays foundation stone of Sewerage Treatment Plant and Water Works at a cost of Rs. 28 crore Abohar,/Chandigarh,December 13: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today accused Jakhar family for using electorates of Fazilka, Abohar and Ferozepur just to gain political benefits since this family has done nothing for the betterment and development of border belt. He said Jakhar family has zero contribution in the development of Abohar, Fazilka. Presiding over a massive gathering here on Hanumangarh Road after laying foundation stones for Sewerage Treatment Plant at a cost of Rs. 21 crore and Water Works at a cost of Rs. 7 crore, Mr. Badal said the move of local MLA Mr. Sunil Jakhar to create hurdles in ongoing development of Abohar was very unfortunate, which was an attempt to backstab voters of his own constituency by himself. He said the family has been ruling the constituency for the last 40 years only for their own vested political purposes aiming by befooling the electorates. Mr. Badal said the foundations laid by him in the city would become a boon for the whole belt as the area had been suffering a lot in absence of Water Treatment Plant and Sewerage system. He said within next one and half year this area would have all basic amenities. Mr. Badal gave a clarion call to the voters of Abohar constituency to ensure the end of ‘self-centric’ political game being played by Jakhar family in the area by drubbing them like political elimination of congress party in recent Lok Sabha elections. He also said Punjab has always witnessed unprecedented development in SAD-BJP regime under Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal besides asserting that the ongoing development projects not only in one region but in entire state would be completed well in time including road network, supply of potable water, sewerage, sewerage treatment plants etc. Answering a query regarding water cess, Mr. Badal said it was being introduced to ensure and execute proper cleansing of canals. He said this system would also ensure the availability of water for irrigation purposes at tail ends to facilitate state peasantry. When asked about the status of ongoing development projects, Mr. Badal said he, himself, was overseeing all projects, which were in good pace. He said in coming two years the entire state would witness massive transformation having all requisite amenities and world class systems. Referring to a query regarding steel bridge to be constructed in Abohar city, Mr. Badal said he has instructed the officers concerned of the state to pursue the issue with Union Railway Ministry in few days so that the physical work could be started. Mr. Badal on the spot asked Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jyani to fulfill the demands of Abohar residents on priority. Mr. Jyani informed that the funds have been sanctioned the all the demands would be met soon. Earlier Mr. Badal visited the homes of Balluana MLA Mr. Gurtej Singh Ghuriana, Mr. Ashok Ahuja, President SAD urban wing and Mr. Mahinder Partap Kali Bathla. Prominent amongst those spoke on the occasion Ferozepur MP Sher Singh Ghubaya, Mrs Vijay Lakshmi Bhadu, Senior BJP leader and Mr. Sandeep Rinwa, State Secretary BJP Punjab ------------- Harsimrat Badal launches Rs 136 crore mega food park in Fazilka district Dabwala Kalan (Fazilka), December 13 - Union minister for Food Processing Industry Harsimrat Kaur Badal inaugurated the first of its kind mega international food park in Punjab here today even as she gave a clarion call for establishment of more food processing units to reduce the astronomical Rs 45,000 crore food wastage in the country. Inaugurating the food park, which is the fourth such park in the country, along with Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Union minister said "this is just the beginning. My ministry has succeeded in promoting an international food park here by extending a subsidy of Rs 50 crore. In the near future you will see many more parks and food processing units coming up in the State", she said while addressing a huge public gathering on the occasion. Giving details of forthcoming projects in Punjab, Mrs Badal said ITC was coming up with a Rs 1,000 crore food park in Kapurthala. "We are also promoting establishment of a cold chain for which we are giving a subsidy of Rs 10 crore besides creation of modern processing centres for milk, fruits and vegetables", she added. Urging farmers to add value to their crops she said they could also form small self help groups for this purpose. Making out a case for diversifying from paddy cultivation, Mrs Badal said the need of the hour was to add value to fruits and vegetables grown in Punjab. "We need to process kinnows, tomatoes and potatoes in much larger quantities to usher in a food processing revolution in the State", she added. Mrs Badal also gave figures of how food processing was growing at 8.6 per cent against industrial growth rate of 6 per cent and agriculture growth of 3 per cent. "However much more needs to be done as we are only processing 10 per cent of our food produce. This lack of processing is resulting in food wastage of 6 to 18 per cent which calculated at Rs 45,000 crore is equal to the total food consumed by England", she added. Speaking on the occasion, Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal said diversification would become a reality with creation of more food parks including the one coming up in Kapurthala. He said farmers could earn as much as Rs 1 to 1.5 lakh by supplying their produce to the various food parks. He also announced that a textile unit was also likely to be set up in this belt which would give a boost to cotton farmers as well as cotton industry. Mr Badal lauded the food park promoters for providing more than 700 jobs to local youth and said more youngsters would be employed in the park once other companies also established their units in the 55 acre facility. Meanwhile giving details of the food park, it's CMD Sukhinder Singh said the 55 acre food park had come up at a cost of Rs 136 crore. He said the mega food park would have facilities for processing milk and milk products besides packaging vegetables and fruits. He said the park had tied up production and marketing with renowned companies. EOM --- PUNJAB STATE ACCREDITATION BOARD CONSTITUTED Chandigarh December 12:, 2014 Punjab government has constituted Punjab State Accreditation Board under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary to provide accreditation to the health care institutions in the state. Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of the health Department said that this would check the mushrooming of the unauthorized medical institutions with inadequate infrastructure. He also reiterated that the Punjab government was committed to provide best health care facilities to the people of the state. The existing health care institutions would also be strengthened ensuring world class hi-tech infrastructure required. Quality of healthcare facilities in the state would be continuously monitored at the State and district level, he said Giving details of the members of the board, he said that the Secretaries of Health and Family Welfare, Medical Education and Research Member, Social Security and Woman and Child Development, Local Government, Director PGIMER (Post Graduation Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh), Senior representative from Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare would be the members. An eminent expert from the field of Health Department would be the nominated member recommended by the state government, he added. --------------------- ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED
CHANDIGARH, December 12: The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the rabi Season through Canal water from 16-12-2014 to 23-12-2014. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Bist Doab, Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, 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 supplies available would be utilized in Kasur Branch Lower, Main Branch Lower, Lahore Branch, with their distributaries respectively. - CM EXPRESSES ANGUISH OVER INCIDENT IN FRONT OF HIS RESIDENCE – GOVT. SPOKESPERSON CHANDIGARH DECEMBER 12: An official spokesperson of the Punjab government said here today that the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was deeply anguished over the incident that took place in front of his official residence at Chandigarh. The spokesperson was referring to an incident of a girl trying to set herself on fire outside his residence this morning. He said that it was most unfortunate that the girl came to see the Chief Minister at a time when he was neither at his residence nor even in the city and when Chief Minister’s tour program and his whereabouts were well publicized in the newspapers and electronic media. The spokesperson said that everybody has access to Mr. Badal and he makes sure those who cannot meet him at Chandigarh can do so in the Sangat Darshans held by him in their respective areas. Incidentally, the Chief Minister was holding sangat darshan in Amritsar region from December 11 to 12, added spokesperson. - MAJOR REPRIEVE TO RESIDENTS OF BORDER DISTRICTS OF STATE · CM ANNOUNCES TO SUPPLY 24X7 POWER TO THE RESIDENTS OF BORDER DISTRICTS · TERMS BORDER RESIDENTS AS ‘TRUE PATRIOTS’ · EXHORTS PEOPLE TO UPHOLD THE ETHOS OF COMMUNAL HARMONY, PEACE AND BROTHERHOOD · DESCRIBES TRAGIC INCIDENT OF SUICIDE ATTEMPT BY A GIRL AT CHANDIGARH VERY SAD AND UNFORTUNATE · SECOND DAY OF SANGAT DARSHAN IN ATTARI ASSEMBLY SEGMENT Attari (Amritsar), December 12- In a major reprieve to the residents of the border districts of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced that the state government would provide round the clock power supply to the residents of the border districts of the state. Addressing the gathering during second day of his Sangat Darshan program here today, the Chief Minister said that he had already passed on the necessary directions to the authorities to ensure 24x7 power supply in the border areas of the state. He said that all the deras and dhanis would also be covered under the urban pattern domestic power supply scheme of the state government as a mark of respect to the residents of border areas who were ‘true patriots’ as they have braved every odd for preserving the unity and integrity of the country. Mr. Badal said that division of the country and wars with Pakistan in the post independence era had given a fatal blow to the development and prosperity of the border towns of Punjab adding that the cities like Amritsar, Kalanaur, Ferozepur, Fazilka and others which once flourished as the leading industrial and trading hubs of the undivided Punjab have now been relegated to petty trading centers with the passage of time. Apart from this, unfortunately the people of these border areas had ever been living under a shadow of constant fear, uncertainty and turmoil though they had valiantly confronted such situations arising out of any provocation or the slightest tension from across the border. The Chief Minister said that the state government fully recognizes the immense contribution of these brave hearts in upholding the unity and integrity of the country due to which special efforts were afoot to herald a new era of unprecedented development in these areas of the state. He said that due attention was being given in imparting quality healthcare and educational facilities to the residents of these areas. Likewise, Mr. Badal said that the state government was also giving relief to the farmers of these areas whose land falls across the border fence by compensating them for their huge loss. The Chief Minister said that the sole aim of the Sangat Darshan program was to ensure on the spot redressal of the grievances of people. He said that Punjab was the only state in the country, which had this unique mechanism solving the problems faced by people. Mr. Badal said that besides giving boost to the development of the state the Sangat Darshan was also helpful in adjudging the performance of the officers/ officials. Earlier in village Rajataal, the Chief Minister asked the Police department to review the list of persons with suspected credentials involved in acts of smuggling in the past so as to ensure that no unwarranted harassment and injustice was done to them, who had now given up such immoral and anti-social activities and leading a normal life as a peaceful and law abiding citizens. He asked the officers to evolve a foolproof mechanism for nabbing the drug peddlers to check the menace of drugs in the state adding that no excesses should be done to anyone, who was not at all linked to it. Later on interacting with the media persons at Attari, the Chief Minister exhorted the people to maintain communal harmony, peace and brotherhood. He said that all of us should follow the teachings of great Sikh Gurus, who have shown the path of equality and love to them. Mr. Badal further said that the brave Punjabis must crush the ugly head of divisive forces which were bent upon to derail the development of the state. Referring to the tragic happening of suicide attempt by a girl at Chandigarh, the Chief Minister said that he was deeply anguished to learn about it since this incident was very sad and unfortunate. He said the doors of his residence were ever open for everyone, who could come and meet him for their work or redressal of their grievances. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Sharma, Inspector General of Police Mr. Ishwar Chander and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat. ------------- CM ANNOUNCES TO SET UP ‘NATIONAL CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR HORTICULTURE’ AT ATTARI · MOVE TO ACT AS A GAME CHANGER FOR FARMERS OF BORDER DISTRICTS · NATIONAL MUSEUM FOR HORTICULTURE TO BE ALSO ESTABLISHED FOR ATTRACTING TOURISM · VISITS GOVERNMENT GARDEN AND NURSERY AT ATTARI Attari (Amritsar), December 12- In a bid to supplement the income of the farmers of border areas through cultivation of fruits under the ambitious crop diversification program of the state government, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced that the state government would soon set up a state-of-the art ‘National Centre of Excellence for Horticulture’ in this town of the border district. The Chief Minister visited the Government Garden and nursery here today and had detailed deliberations with the officers regarding the setting up this center. He said that this ultra modern ‘National Centre of Excellence for Horticulture’ could act as a game changer for the farmers by enhancing their income considerably through the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Mr. Badal asked the officers to ensure that this centre must be equipped with hi-end technologies so that extensive research could be carried out for producing high yielding varieties of fruits and vegetables from this place. The Chief Minister further said that this Center of excellence must have high tech poly-house for vegetable nursery and a high tech nursery for every fruit including citrus adding that it should also demonstrate the technology of cultivating fruits and vegetables so that the farmers could maximize their profit. He also asked the officers to prepare a Detailed Project Report for this ambitious project so that it could be pursued with the Union Government. Dwelling on another issue, Mr. Badal asked the officers of Horticulture department to encourage the farmers for cultivating the fruits and vegetables that were best suited for the climate of the region. He said that the cultivation of fruits like Peers, Peach and Guava that could give high yield in the region could transform the destiny of the farmers of this region by enhancing their income manifolds. Likewise, the Chief Minister said that the land of this nursery, which was proximate to the border, must also be aptly utilized by constructing National Museum for Horticulture on the pattern of one constructed in Orissa. He said that this museum must depict the techniques of Horticulture adopted across the country through live and monumental presentations, so that people coming to visit border could be attracted towards it. “Apart from developing this site as a harbinger of horticulture revolution in the state efforts must also be made to develop it as a favorite recreational spot for the tourist” he added. Welcoming the Chief Minister, Deputy Director of Horticulture Department Dr Baj Singh apprised him that established in 1935, this nursery was spread over about 100 acres of land. He said that they were making strenuous efforts to promote cultivation of peers amongst the farmers as it was paying rich dividends to them. Dr. Baj Singh also apprised the Chief Minister that they were also encouraging the farmers for self marketing of their harvest so that they could maximize their profit. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Sharma, Inspector General of Police Mr. Ishwar Chander and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat. ------------ SUKHBIR ADVOCATES ALL PARTY MEET TO EVOLVE CONSENSUS OVER RELIGIOUS CONVERSION ISSUE · SAYS SIKHS AN INDEPENDENT RACE · AG TO TAKE UP ISSUE OF SIKH PRISONERS LANGUISHING IN JAILS · FORMS SPECIAL SIT TO PROBE INTO SACRILEGE OF ‘SAROOP’ . HOLY CITY TO BE DEVELOPED AS MOST BEAUTIFUL IN THE COUNTRY
Chandigarh/Amritsar, December 12: Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to call an all party meeting to ally apprehensions of minorities on the issue of religious conversions even as he called upon the government to frame a law to restrict such conversions. Talking to the media at the information office of the Darbar Sahab complex here, the Deputy Chief minister said religious conversions could add to communal tensions and that this matter should be handled sensitively. Responding to a media query regarding demand raised by various Sikh Organizations for the amendment of Section 25(B) of the Constitution which includes Sikhs as a part of Hindu community, Mr. Sukhbir said that it is universally known fact that Sikhs have a distinct identity. “Sikhism is an independent race and the entire community has the same stand on this issue. There is no need for any second opinion on this issue”. Talking about release of Sikh prisoners languishing in jails after completion of term of life imprisonment, Mr. Badal said he had on his own initiative written to the Union Home minister and requested him to take up the issue of release of Sikh detainees in jails outside Punjab. He also clarified that life imprisonment implied a jail term for the convict’s entire life and not imprisonment for 14 or 20 years and the remission could be awarded only by powers vested with Governors of the States. He also informed that Supreme court had imposed a stay on releasing any detainees under the premature release policy in the entire country and that because of this nothing could be done as of now at the State level. “Still on compassionate grounds we are trying to do as much as possible and Attorney General (AG) of the State would be asked to take up case with the Apex Court so as to work out a remedial course of action”, he added. In context of the unfortunate desecration of the ‘Saroop’ of Guru Granth Sahib ji at village Jodhpur in Tarn Taran district, Deputy CM informed that a Special SIT has been constituted under Commissioner Police, Amritsar and SSP rank official will support the commissioner police for an early enquiry into the issue. He said that the SIT will put up its report within 48 hours and thereafter the perpetrator of the blasphemous act would be brought to book. He said that sacrilege by any of the cultists and miscreants is not tolerable in the interest of peace and harmony of the State. Earlier, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal along with his wife Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, paid obeisance at Golden Temple and partook in the Bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib. Meanwhile, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who was in city today to take stock of ongoing development projects, issued directions to the senior officers of state as well as executing agencies to expedite the construction so that these projects could be accomplished before December 2015. Reiterating his resolve to develop Holy City as one of the most beautiful city in the country, Mr. Badal said all round development and beautification of Amritsar besides creation of eco-friendly environment was one of the top-priority of SAD-BJP. He said the state was paying special attention towards this city so that not only residents but also lakhs of tourists visiting Amritsar could be facilitated with ultra modern facilities and development initiatives. He also asked officers to ensure the timely completion of internal beautification of Golden Plaza. He also directed to keep the general vehicles away from Golden Temple Complex to eliminate congestion for the facilitation of devotees. Reviewing the status of project under which heritage look would be given to the passage from Golden Temple to Hall Gate, Mr. Badal directed officers to start the work right from Sri Darbar Sahib. He said under this project all roads and streets would be well constructed, electricity polls would be removed and it would witness world class landscaping, planting and fountains. Mr. Badal also asked senior officers to oversee the ongoing projects personally so the dream of establishing Amritsar as major tourist spot could be realised. He also reviewed the ongoing projects included widening of roads, BRTS, beautification of Chowk Shaheedan, Entry Gates, War Memorial, Gobindgarh Fort, Solid Waste Management, Sewerage Treatment Plant, Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Memorial, under construction parking at Attari border and directed officers that these project would be completed well in time. The officers apprised Deputy CM that Bus Rapid Trnasit System would be completed well before December 2015. They informed that this Rs. 491 crore project would witness dedicated bus tracks from Bhandari Bridge to India Gate, Bhandari Bridge to Daburji, Daburji Byepass to Verka, Verka to Celebration Mall, Celebration Mall to Sant Singh Sukh Singh Chowk, 4S Chowk to Kitchlu Chowk and Kitchlu Chowk to Old Sadar police station. Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Mr. P.S. Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mayor Bakshi Ram Arora, Commissioner Pardeep Sabharwal, Chairman Improvement Trust Sandeep Rishi and officers of various departments.
----------------------------- 5th World Kabaddi Cup-2014First list of Dope test results out-All 14 players clear Chandigarh, December 12: The National Anti Doping Agency today released the first list of dope tests of players participating in 5th World Cup Kabaddi, in which all 14 players have respectively cleared their tests. According to an official spokesman the NADA was being carried out the dope tests as part of anti-doping policy envisioned by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is also sports minister of Punjab. He said in first phase the test reports of 14 players have released by the agency in which they all respectively cleared with negative reports. The spokesman also said that NADA was being carried out the tests by taking samples of Kabaddi players and the tests were being examined in laboratories authorised by World Anti Doping Agency (WADA). He said dope test would be carried out in each match and it would again conducted on players, whose sample had been taken earlier. He said the anti-dope norms were being strictly executed in the ongoing 5thedition of World Cup Kabaddi. ------------- The Director and Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Punjab at the seminar hall of R.R. Bawa D.A.V. College for Girls, Batala. Chandigarh, December 12: The Director and Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Punjab, Mr. Raminder Singh today a delegation of local industrialists at the seminar hall of R.R. Bawa D.A.V. College for Girls, Batala. Stating this, a spokesperson of the department said that in the meeting the industrialists apprised the Director of their problems regarding certain regulations primarily concerning with the departments of pollution, sales tax, excise & taxation and P.S.I.E.C. They voiced their concern that due to some regulations with regard to these departments they are facing difficulty in running their business establishments. They also suggested the up gradation of technology in accordance with modern times. The Director listened patiently to all their problems and solved the ones concerned with industry and commerce on the spot itself. He also assured the delegation of getting their concerns regarding other departments addressed by co-coordinating with the departments. In this meeting apart from industrial advisor T.L. Khosla, General Manager District Industries Centre, Batala, Balwinder pal Singh, General Manager, Institutes for machine tools technology, Batala, Major Singh, Mr. Bhupathi , MSME, Ludhiana several local industrialists Rakesh Goyal, V M Goyal, Bharat bhushan, Hari krishan Trehan, Ravinder Handa, Satish sarin, Vinesh Shukla, Bint Khular, Amarjit Singh, Sukhjinder Singh, Ramesh Sharma, Ajay Sharma, Rakesh Bajaj, Kuldip Singh, Arun Mahajan, Rajwant singh, Vinay srivastav, Sanjiv Sharma, Pavan Trehan, Budhish Agarwal, shvam tiwari, Surinder Singh, Munish Khosla, sudesh Khosla were present. --------------- New industrial policy acting as a magnet for investors-Sukhbir Badal * Ludhiana to have much economical BRTS in place of metro * Sukhbir asks traders to adopt "Rahat" scheme * Inaugurates Rs 200 crore new unit of Vardhman group & industrial expo * S P Oswal lauds Punjab state industrial and investment policy
Ludhiana, December 12 - Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that the industry in state is expanding and reaching new heights as the new industrial and investment policies are acting as magnet for industrialists. He said that several new industrial units are not only coming up in the state but even expanding. "The new unit of Vardhman group in Ludhiana is a slap on those who are jealous of prosperous Punjab. It is only due to pro-industry policies of the Punjab government that Vardhman has invested Rs 200 crore for expanding their new steel mill in Ludhiana," the Deputy CM said. After inaugurating state-of-the-art steel plant of Vardhman group here at Focal Point on Friday, he said that Punjab is the first state in the country to adopt "one stop clearance" by setting up Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion for the investors to setup new industry. Deputy CM said that investment bureau has cleared 180 projects since its inception and all clearances are being provided within a month. He said that this particular mill of Vardhman group is a result of Invest Punjab Summit organised by the SAD-BJP government. Mr Badal said main aim of Punjab government is to protect and promote the local industry to flourish and bring prosperity to the state. Earlier interacting with industrialists at Modal Town he also announced that very soon, Ludhiana would have ultra modern and economical Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) in place of Ludhiana Metro Rail project. He said that it was after consultation with international experts, the Punjab government has now decided to introduce BRTS in place of Metro Rail. He also said that some other states have also shelved the Metro Rail projects and have adopted BRTS. Divulging the 'Rahat' scheme launched by the Punjab Government, he appealed to the traders to adopt this unique scheme. He said that the traders, having Rahat Card, would have to file self-declaration on a single page application for registration and could run their trade without keeping record books, and no excise official would inspect their premises, he said. Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal also invited the traders to come to Chandigarh next week so that all their grievances could be resolved in the presence of concerned officers. The Deputy CM said that Punjab has already achieved status of power surplus state and from next year, there won't even be any shortage of coal. "Thermal Plant at Goindwal Sahib is complete and it would start getting power supply shortly as the centre government is formulating a national policy for the same," said the Deputy CM. Taking the administrative reforms a step forward, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal also asserted that by July 2015, more than 249 citizen centric services would be provided online through 2,174 Sewa Kendras being set up in villages and towns and the residents need not have to visit any government office. Stating Punjab would be the first state in the country implementing online services Mr Badal assured that administrative reforms would be completed within next two years to provide hassle free services to the citizens. While reacting to a query related to conversion of religion by a certain community, the Deputy CM termed it very unfortunate and said that the Police would conduct a detailed inquiry to look into the matter. "If we find any person guilty, strict action would be taken against him," Deputy CM said while addressing a press conference here today. On a question related to Ashutosh Maharaj, the Deputy CM said that the state government would abide by the decision of Punjab & Haryana High Court. While speaking on the occasion, Punjab Industries Minister Mr Madan Mohan Mittal said that Vardhman's new unit is another milestone for the industry as well as the state government. He said that some of their political opponents are criticising the state government for the sake of criticism by claiming that industry is running away from Punjab. While thanking the Punjab Deputy CM for launching investor friendly policies, Mr S P Oswal, Chairman, Vardhman Group, said that the new industrial policy launched by the state is proving a boon to industrialists as well as the Vardhman group. Mr Sachit Jain, Managing Director, Vardhman Special Steels Ltd, said that the industrialists are very happy with the new industrial and investment policies of the state. Prominent among those present on the occasion included Irrigation Minister Mr Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Advisor to CM Mr Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Mayor Mr Harcharan Singh Gohalwaria, Former Minister Mr Hira Singh Gabria, Deputy Commissioner Mr Rajat Agarwal, Police Commissioner Mr Promod Ban, Municipal Corporation Commissioner Mr Pradeep Agarwal, Akali leaders Chaudhary Madan Lal Bagga, Mr Satish Dhanda, BJP district president Mr Parveen Bansal, besides several others. The Deputy CM also inaugurated the 3rd Heavy Industrial Machine Tools Expo at GLADA Grounds, here, which was organised by Association of Ludhiana Machine Tools Industry. Mr Sukhdial Singh, president of the association said that more than 200 exhibitors have displayed 8,000 items in the expo and are expecting business deals of more than Rs 200 crore during four day expo. EOM Jyani asks Doctors, Para Medical Staff to treat patients with Respect and Kindness
Chandigarh, December 11: Punjab Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani today asked the doctors and para-medical staff posted in hospitals, Community Health Centers, Primary Health Centers, dispensaries to treat patients with ‘dignity, kindness and respect’ to build up positive image of public healthcare system. Mr. Jyani accompanied by Secretary Health and MD Punjab Health System Corporation and National Health Mission in State Mr. Husan Lal was addressing the newly recruited 776 staff nurses after handing over appointment letters to them. He said that medical profession was the most novel profession on the earth and they were fortunate that Almighty has given them an opportunity to serve the suffering humanity. He said that doctor, nurses and para medical professionals in the health sector were agents of God, who were instrumental in mitigating the pain and suffering of people. Giving a call to newly recruited staff to work with full zeal and commitment, Mr. Jyani said they could save numerous lives by delivering their duties with dedication and devotion. He said patients must be treated with respect and kindness to further bring improvement in the image of government healthcare system. The Minister said that out of these 776 nurses 186 would deliver their services in Urban Health Mission, 258 in National Child Health Programme, 319 for Rural Health and 13 for Mobile Medial Units to provide better health services across the state. Addressing the gathering of newly recruited staff, Mr. Husan Lal said doctors and staff nurses are the major organs of hospitals and they should ensure the execution of efficient health services to facilitate patients. He said they should properly diagnose the patients. He said the department has been started recruitment drive on large scale to curtail the scarcity of staff in government hospitals. He also lauded the doctors and health staff for institutional deliveries as Punjab has witnessed more than 2 lakh deliveries as compare to previous 5 years figures. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Director Health Dr. Karanjit Singh, Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Jatinder Kaur, Director National Health Mission Dr. Shashi Kant and other senior officers of the department. -------- MARKFED ALL SET TO ENTER GLOBAL HONEY MARKET STATE-OF-THE ART HONEY PROCESSING UNIT TO COME UP AT JALANDHAR PART OF CM’S VISION TO PROMOTE AGRICULTURE DIVERSIFICATION IN THE STATE Chandigarh, December 11- As a part of the state government’s endeavor to promote agriculture diversification program in the state, the premier cooperative of the state- Markfed was all set to establish an ultra modern Honey Processing Unit at village Chuharwali in Jalandhar. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal had held a series of meetings for boosting the production of Honey in the state to supplement the earnings of the farmers, who were on the verge of economic disaster due to dwindling returns from the traditional agriculture. In a move aimed at providing price stabilization and preventing exploitation of bee-keepers due to fluctuating market trends, Mr. Badal had also mooted the idea of setting up a state-of-the art Honey Processing Unit. In compliance with the directions of the Chief Minister, Markfed has prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to set up a Honey Processing Unit at Village Chuharwali, Jalandhar, where construction of Modern Canneries was already under way, with a total outlay of Rs. 15.50 crores. The DPR was submitted to Agriculture and Processed Foods Export Development Authority (APEDA) with a request for the grant –in-aid for the project. After a series of meetings and technical presentations, the officials of Markfed were successful in convincing APEDA about the necessity of setting up a Honey Processing Unit not only as commercial activity of Markfed but for protecting the long term interest of the bee-keepers. APEDA had also under lined the importance of backward linkages by increasing honey production in the state, rather than competing with the existing market of honey –a direction to which Markfed readily agreed. The persistent efforts of Markfed fructified as the APEDA authorities had approved a grant of Rs 8 Crores for ultra modern Honey Processing Unit of Markfed with an installed capacity of 3000 MTs. The Markfed proposes to export 2000 MTs of honey and sell the remaining 1000 MTs within the domestic market. It has also prepared a roadmap for ensuring timely and regular monetary gain to the bee keepers while protecting the commercial interests of the organization. The officials of Markfed had also held a series of meetings with the Associations of Bee-Keepers, Officers of PAU and Officers of Horticulture Department to work out linkages between Bee- keepers and Markfed. Pertinently more than 450 bee- keepers have registered with Markfed to supply honey and many more were eager to join. Likewise parleys were also held with scientists of Punjab Biotechnology Incubator, Mohali for providing State of the Art Testing facilities which would detect adulteration of sugar syrup in Honey, thereby making Markfed the pioneer in introducing such testing of honey within the country. --------- PUNJAB RELEASES RS. 2.57 CRORE UNDER SHAGUN SCHEME-RANIKE Chandigarh, December 11: The Punjab Government today released Rs 2.57 crore to be disbursed as Shagun to 1716 beneficiaries. Stating this here today, Scheduled Castes & Backward Classes Welfare Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike said that the government had already issued instructions to disburse Shagun of Rs 15,000 to eligible Scheduled Caste, Backward class, Christian community and economic weaker girls. He said that Rs. 30.82 crore has already been distributed to 20,547 beneficiaries under Shagun Scheme till date in 2014-15. He said that under this scheme, a financial assistance of Rs. 15,000 is given by the Punjab government on the marriage of a girl, who attains the age of 18, with the condition that the annual income of her family should not exceed Rs. 32,790. - Rural Punjab to be connected with high speed internet connectivity (6000 villages to be connected in first phase) Chandigarh, December 11 – With a view to provide high speed internet connectivity having unlimited bandwidth in rural areas, the Punjab Government has initiated a prestigious project to connect all villages with optical fibre network, a state of the art communication technology in the state. A spokesman of governance reforms department today said the state cabinet had already approved to provide right of way for implementation of this project which would indirectly give a boost to the state GDP. He informed that a tripartite MOU had been signed between Punjab, Union Government and Bharat Broadband Network Ltd (BBNL) to transform the villages into e-villages under this project. Adding further he stated that this initiative would also help to bridge the digital gap between rural and urban areas and provide e-services to all gram panchayats. He said that as a pilot project BBNL had selected 67 blocks covering 6000 villages to connect with Optical Fiber Network in first phase. Divulging the project implementation plan, he said this project would be completed by utilizing existing fibers of PSUs like BSNL, Railtel and power grid besides laying incremental fibre to connect to gram panchayats wherever necessary. Giving an account of present connectivity, the spokesman said presently OFC (Optical Fibre Network) connectivity was available in all districts and head quarters which would further connect all blocks and sub divisions including rural areas. He stressed that after accomplishment of this project, availability of all citizen centric services through rural and urban Sewa Kendras would be within reach of every inhabitant of the state. "Besides other communication services, villagers could also avail IPTV having HDTV and range of voice telephony services, video conferencing, video calls etc through this network", he said. EOM - · DCs INSTRUCTED TO STRICTLY ENFORCE PUNITIVE MEASURES AGAINST OFFENDERS CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 11: The Punjab Government has fixed the accountability of District Administration to enforce Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (COTPA) Act, 2003 in their respective districts with iron hand. Instructions have been issued to the districts to accelerate the surveillance in every nook and corner of the district to nab the offenders red handed. The district administrations have also been given mandate to book such law brokers and take punitive action at the spot. Disclosing this here official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that district administration has been instructed to take severe punitive action against the offenders. He said that under section 4 of the COTPA, Act a person can be fined up to Rs. 200 for the crime and the owner of the institution can be fined adding up the total number of offenders in his establishment. Similarly under section 5 of the said Act advertising of the Tobacco product has been prohibited. He said that for first such crime the offender can be sentenced to 2 years or a fine of Rs. 1000 and for committing the crime second time sentence of 5 years and fine of Rs 5000 can be slapped on the law broker. He said that under sanction 6 of the Act the sale of Tobacco product to the children under 18 years of age and within the 100 meter circumference of educational instructions is strictly prohibited and the offender can be slapped a fine of Rs. 200 for such crime. The spokesperson further said that under section 7,8 & 9 of the Act the sale of Tobacco product without highlighting health advisory has been prohibited. Any person found flouting this norm can be sentenced of 2 years or a fine of Rs.5000 for committing crime for the first time similarly for the second time the sentence can be 5 years or fine of Rs. 10,000. He said for the wholesaler for committing this crime for the first time a sentence of 1 year or a fine of Rs. 1000 can be slapped whereas for committing the crime second time this sentence can be increased for 2 years or fine of Rs. 3000 can be slapped on him. He said that 18 districts of the state have already been declared Tobacco Smoke Free Zones relying on the findings of the PGIEMR’s Complied Study conducted on the use of Tobacco products in Punjab. He said that now the state government has in principle took a decision to declare the whole of the state ‘Tobacco Smoke Free Zone’. He said that the provision of this COTPA, Act would now be binding on Hotels, Restaurants, Dhabas, and all other commercial establishments. Further under Food Safety and Standards Act, products like Gutka and other eatable having ingredients of Nicotine/ Tobacco have been banned in the state similarly under Drug and Cosmetic Act the use of Nicotine in chemical form like e-cigarettes has also been prohibited. He said that all the Deputy Commissioners have been asked to constitute ‘Block level task force’ on similar lines of ‘Permanent District Level Task Force’. He said that apart from Department of Health & Family Welfare all other department like Police, Education, Local Bodies, transport and Excise & taxation ect. have been instructed to generate all their resources to curb the use of Tobacco and for implementation of COTPA, Act in their district effectively. ----------- PUNJAB MILKFED PROCURES 328.33 LAC KG MILK IN OCTOBER CHANDIGARH, December 11: Punjab State Co-operative Milk Producers Federation Limited (Milkfed) has procured 328.33 lac kg of Milk from 6339 societies of the State during the month of October, 2014. Stating this here today, a spokesman of Milkfed said that daily average milk procurement of the Milkfed was 10 lac 59 thousand kg in Punjab. The spokesman further said that Milkfed was also taking care of animals, especially milch animals. As many as 41880 sick animals were treated in Punjab through 625 First Aid Centres and 1760 Veterinary centers of Milkfed. He said that cattle feed, mineral mixture, lick brick and fodder seed was sold by the Milkfed to the tune of 4833 metric tonnes, 14978 kilograms, 252 and 100931 kilograms respectively to the milk producers. The Milkfed has also sold 60.3 metric tonnes of Ghee through Societies in the state, he added. He said that Punjab Government was committed to continue its efforts for the welfare of dairy farmers, so that they could get better remuneration of their milk, the spokesman added. - ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAMME FOR RABI SEASON ANNOUNCED Chandigarh, December 11: The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Programme for irrigation for the current Rabi Season through Canal water to 15-12-2014. The channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Patiala feeder, Abohar Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Sidhwan Branch and Bathinda Branch respectively. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the irrigation department said that Ghaggar link and its off taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group 'B' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in direct distributaries of Bhakra Main Line in group 'A' respectively. The spokesman further said that Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and distributries in Group "B" being in the First preference will run to their ident. Balance water supplies available would be utilised in direct distributaries of Group 'A'. The spokesman also said that the channels off taking from upper Bari Doab Canal i.e. Main Branch Lower with its distributaries being in the first Preference would run to their indent .Balance water supplies water available would be utilised in, Lahore Branch, Sabraon Branch, Kasur Branch Lower with their distributaries respectively. - GOVERNMENT NOMINATES 1328 MEMBERS OF MARKET COMMITTEES Chandigarh Dec.11: The Punjab government has nominated 1328 members of market committees of the state. 82 Chairmen and 72 Vice-Chairmen have also been nominated. Disclosing this here today an official spokesman of the Agriculture department said that a notification has also issued in this regard. Mr. Gurpreet singh, Mr. Rupinder Singh, Sh. Hardev Singh, Sh. Surinder Singh have been nominated as chairmen of Amritsar,Ajnala,Attari and Chogawana Market committees Whereas Mr. Sarbjit Singh Shanti, Baljinder Singh, Mr. Mandip Singh and Ravinder Singh would be the Vice Chairmen besides this all concerned B.D.P.Os have been nominated as the Government representatives of the concerned market committees of Amritsar Distt. He also said that Mr. Avtar Singh Johal, Buta Singh, Raghunath Singh would be chairman, Mr. Vijay Kumar, Parmdip Singh, Sh. Jagwinder singh as Vice-Chairman of Hoshiarpur, Garh- shanker and Mukerian Market Committees respectively and B.D.P.Os of GarhShanker and Mukerian have been nominated as the Government representatives of the Hoshiarpur Distt. Market committees. Mr. Manwinder Singh,Mr. Baljit Singh Kumbran, Sh. Major Singh, Sh. Surjit Singh and Sh. Sadhu Singh as Chairmen whereas Sh. Pawan Kumar, Pritam Singh, Sh. Ashwani Kumar Gupta, Sh. Ghanshyam Dass and Santokh Singh as Vice Chairman of Derabassi, Kharar, Kurali, Lalru and Banur Market Committees of SAS Nagar district. In the similar way, Chairmen, Vice chairmen, members andGovernment representatives have also been appointed in the Districts of Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Tarntaran, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Fatehgarh Sahib, Patiala, Sangrur, Barnala, Ropar, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Moga, Ludhiana, Mansa, Faridkot, Ferozepur and Fazilka. - CM TERMS IIM AMRITSAR AS JUST A PIE IN THE ROBUST SHARE IN OFFING AS MORE TO FOLLOW SUIT NDA GOVERNMENT TO ALLOCATE MORE SUCH BIG TICKET PROJECTS FOR STATE ISSUES CONCERNING STATE TO BE RAISED WITH THE PM SAD-BJP ALLIANCE TO CONTEST DELHI ASSEMBLY POLLS JOINTLY MANPREET’S STATEMENT REGARDING MID TERM POLLS- ‘A FIGMENT OF IMAGINATION’ SANGAT DARSHAN IN ATTARI ASSEMBLY SEGMENT Guruwali (Amritsar)/Chandigarh, December 11- Terming that the proposed Indian Institute of Management (IIM) at Amritsar was just a pie in the robust share in offing, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the NDA government at the centre would soon allocate more such big ticket projects for the state. Interacting with the media persons on the sidelines of Sangat Darshan program of the Attari assembly segment here today, the Chief Minister said that in less than six months of its tenure the NDA government has allocated a prestigious project like IIM to Punjab, which would give further impetus to the education system in the state. He said that many more such projects were in pipeline that would put the state in the orbit of high growth trajectory. Mr. Badal further said that the state government was already searching suitable land for the construction of IIM in Amritsar so that the work on it could be started soon. Reiterating the commitment of the state government to ensure the overall development of Punjab, the Chief Minister said that they were duty bound to take every issue concerned with the state and its people with the Union government. Mr. Badal said that he had already met the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi for safeguarding the interests of the state and this practice would be continued in the future also. “We will meet the PM whenever required so that as to give boost to the overall development of the state” he added. Replying to another query, the Chief Minister reiterated that the SAD-BJP alliance would contest the ensuing assembly elections in Delhi together. He said that both the alliance partners have an everlasting relationship, which has always stood the test of time. Mr. Badal said that the seat sharing arrangements for these polls was hardly an issue and would be soon finalized by both the alliance partners. When asked to comment on the statement of PPP leader Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal that the state was heading towards mid-term polls, the Chief Minister, while rubbishing it, said that it was nothing more than a ‘figment of imagination’ of the former Finance Minister. He said that Mr. Manpreet Singh Badal was least aware about the political scenario of the state. “Our government will continue to serve the people by completing its full tenure” added Mr. Badal. Addressing the gatherings during the Sangat Darshan in village Guruwali, Bohru, Baasarke and Bhakna the Chief Minister said that Sangat Darshan was the flagship program of his government, which was aimed at mitigating the woes of the people by bringing all the organs of the state government on a single platform. He said that this program has proved to be a boon for the residents of the state as it has helped in solving their problems within few minutes. Mr. Badal further said that Punjab was the only state which has successfully carried on this pro-people program from last several years. The Chief Minister further said that the state government was fully committed to provide best civic amenities to the people both in the urban and rural areas. Mr. Badal asked the people to prioritize the development works in their villages to ensure optimum utilization of tax payer’s money on one hand and giving fillip to the development of the state on the other. He said that the state government would leave no stone unturned for the development of villages by providing them ultra modern civic amenities at par with the urban areas. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. AK Mittal and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat. ------------ UPGRADED, SWANK NEW DADI-POTI PARK ALL SET TO BECOME CENTER OF ATTRACTION IN CITY UNION MINISTER HARSIMRAT BADAL TO INAUGURATE PARK ON DEC 12 Bathinda, Dec 11 With the consistent efforts of Union Cabinet Minister Mrs Harsimrat Kaur Badal, the Dadi-Poti Park spread on 2.5 acres of land in Urban Estate phase 3, is all set to become center of attraction with its swank new modern look and would be inaugurated on December 12. Laced with facilities especially for children and the elderly from society, the Bathinda Development Authority (BDA) has left no stone unturned to usher in comfort, relaxation and recreation for the visitors to park. Giving information in this context today, the Deputy Commissioner Bathinda Dr Basant Garg stated that on December 12, the Union Minister for Food Processing Industry Mrs Harsimrat Kaur Badal would inaugurate it as well as distribute sewing machines to the women who have completed various courses under Minister’s NGO Nanhi Chhan Foundation. Dr Garg added that with aim to inculcate reading habits and satiate the inquisitive minds, a library has been set up in the park. It has special reading corners for children and elderly. Apart from books, toys too adorn the shelves of this library. He added that new play stations and swings have been installed in the park wherein children get free entertainment. Also a music system has been installed in the park t enliven mood of people visiting the place. Laced with the modern facilities, this upgraded park also has a booth of the government agency Verka where milk and its products including cheese and ice cream would be sold to the visitors. Besides this, the footpath in park has been widened from 6 feet to 10 feet providing wider passage for the walkers. The Chief Administrator of BDA, Mr Varinder Kumar Sharma said that Rs 110 lacs have been spent on giving the park this new look. He added that ICICI Bank has been entrusted the work of running and maintaining the library as well as park. The park is decked with rain shelters, beautiful landscaping and proper light arrangements. - PUNJAB ISSUES DETAILED GUIDELINES REGARDING HIRING OF VEHICLES FOR GOVERNMENT OFFICERS · NO MORE PURCHASE OF NEW VEHICLES FOR OFFICERS Chandigarh, December 11: The Punjab government has issued detailed instructions for hiring private vehicles for all government offices, public sector undertakings, semi-government, tribunals, societies, commissions and local government/ Panchayat department offices/Institutions. Instructions have already been issued that no more new vehicles would be issued and government would hire vehicles for officers. According to a notification issued in this regard, only those government departments and other undertakings would be eligible to hire vehicles, wherever the government vehicle has been sold after condemning it and the concerned officer has been left without any vehicle. The concerned department could hire equivalent vehicle from market with condition that no other vehicle has been purchased or got sanctioned against the condemned vehicle. No officer could retain more than one vehicle and in case of violation, he would be responsible to bear the cost of other vehicle from his pocket. Categories of vehicle to be hired along with maximum limit of rent etc. should be as per the instructions of Transport department. The upper limit kms would be 2000 kms per month and in case of crossing the limit, the concerned officer would have to pay from its own pocket. Keeping in view the jurisdiction of some categories, the upper traveling limit has been enhanced for Deputy Commissioner (2500 Kms per month), ADCs/SDMs/Tehsildars (2200 Kms per month), IGP/Zonal, DIG/Range, SSP along with Secretary, Transport, Regional Transport Authority, DTO, Flying Squad In-charge Officer, Divisional Excise & Taxation Commissioners, Asstt. Excise & Taxation Commissioners, Enforcement Officer (not less than ETO level), ETO (Excise) posted in district, DSP/Sub-division (2350Kms per month). It is also directed that the hired vehicles shouldn’t be old more than one year and should be hired through proper tendering as determined by the Punjab Finance Rules. The contract for hiring private vehicle with contractor initially would be for one year, which could be extended for two more years on annual basis. The contractor should be paid at the rate of minimum 2000 Kms per month on minimum guaranteed payment per month basis and the contractor himself pay to driver. The contractor would be paid minimum guaranteed payment per month as per the tender fixation and in case of exceeding the upper limit the contractor would be paid per Km on the excess Kms but it would be only in extraordinary circumstances and it would not be approved as a regular feature. The hired vehicle would be allowed four off days to undertake necessary service or repair and these would be preferably Saturdays/Sundays. The duty timing limit would be 12 hours a day. International players to be absorbed on govt jobs-Sukhbir Badal (Water works in the villages would be setup on demand) (Chohla Sahib stadium to get facelift soon) Chohla Sahib (Tarn Taran)/Chandigarh, December 11: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that for promoting sports culture in the state, the SAD-BJP government is coming up with a job policy where the players performing well in their respective disciplines international games, would automatically become eligible for a government job. Mr Badal said that a new job policy in this regard would be discussed upon during the Cabinet Meeting scheduled for December 16. The Deputy CM said that this would not only promote sports culture in the state but would also save the sportspersons from getting harassed. "Besides this, we are also in the process of hiring national and international expert coaches, who would train the sportspersons as my main aim is that the Indian contingent for 2016 Olympics should have maximum participation of Punjabi players," said the Deputy CM while addressing the audience at Sri Guru Arjun Dev Ji Sports Stadium at Chohla Sahib in Tarn Taran district today. Mr. Badal said that Punjab has already achieved the status of power surplus state and from next year, there would not even be any shortage of coal. "Thermal Plant at Goindwal Sahib is complete and it would start getting power supply shortly as the centre government is already formulating a national policy for coal supply to the states," said the Deputy CM. Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said that it was the only SAD-BJP government that has sanctioned one lakh tubewell connections to the farmers. "But some people from the opposition have managed to take stay on the power connections from National Green Tribunal. We have asked our battery of lawyers to pursue the case properly so that the stay is vacated at the earliest," said the Deputy CM. He said that Punjab has registered revolutionary initiatives in education, sports, infrastructure, power etc. and government was all set to lay 4/6 lane road network at the cost of Rs. 11000 crore. For provisioning of potable water he said that water works in the villages would be setup at the request of village panchayats. Historical and religious town of Chohla Sahib today played host to four matches of fifth Kabaddi World Cup 2014 today. Deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal was the chief guest on the occasion while Member of Parliament Mr Ranjit Singh Brahmpura was the guest of honour. While addressing the gathering, Mr Ranjit Singh Brahmpura thanked the Deputy CM for choosing Chohla Sahib as the venue for Kabaddi World Cup for consecutive fifth time. Mr Brahmpura requested the state government to constrict a bigger stadium along with sports academy at Chohla Sahib. The Deputy CM promised that very soon, sports department would finalise the modalities in this regard. Prominent among those present on the occasion included Mr Virsa Singh Valtoha, Mr Harmit Singh Sandhu, both Chief Parliamentary Secretaries, Former MP Mr Rajmohinder Singh Majithia, MLA Mr Manjit Singh Manna, MLA Mr Baljit Singh Jalalusma, chairman, district planning board Tarn Taran Mr Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, Deputy Commissioner Mr Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal, Director (Sports) Mr Tajinder Singh Dhaliwal, Mr Gurpartap Singh Khushhalpur, besides several others. EOM - AGRICULTURE MINISTER ORDERS TO SUBMIT THE UTILIZATION CERTIFICATES ON PRIORITY Chandigarh, December 11: Punjab Agriculture minister Jathedar Tota Singh today ordered to the officers of Forest, Dairy Development, Animal Husbandary, Fisheries, Punjab Agriculture Ludhiana,Gadvasu, Milkfed and other concerned departments to deposit utilization certificates before various union government sponsored schemes on priority, so that the state government could put the case of releasing next grant under the Rashtriye Krishi Vigyan Yojna Scheme. However, it is prime responsibility of concern department to submit timely the utilization certificates . Today reviewing the implementation of ongoing agriculture schemes in a meeting here, the Minister said that Punjab Government would push the case to the centre Govt. - PAKISTAN, DENMARK, CANADA & NEW ZEALAND REGISTER VICTORIES IN FIFTH KABADDI WORLD CUP 2014 CHOHLA SAHIB (TARN TARAN), DECEMBER 11: Denmark, Canada and New Zealand recorded victories in the historical and religious town of Chohla Sahib here today that played host to four matches of Fifth Kabaddi World Cup 2014 today. Deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal was the chief guest on the occasion while Member of Parliament Mr Ranjit Singh Brahmpura was the guest of honour. Prominent among those present on the occasion included Mr Virsa Singh Valtoha, Mr Harmit Singh Sandhu, both Chief Parliamentary Secretaries, Former MP Mr Rajmohinder Singh Majithia, MLA Mr Manjit Singh Manna, MLA Mr Baljit Singh Jalalusma, chairman, district planning board Tarn Taran Mr Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, Deputy Commissioner Mr Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal, Director (Sports) Mr Tajinder Singh Dhaliwal, Hockey Olympian and DSP Mr Jugraj Singh, Mr Gurpartap Singh Khushhalpur, besides several others. - MATCH 1: MEN SECTION: DENMARK DEFEAT SWEDEN 45-42.
In the first match of the day of men section, the Denmark team defeated Sweden by 45-42. By half time, the score was tied 21-21, but it were the Denmark team which emerged victorious in the end. For Denmark, raiders Christian scored 13 points, Fredric scored 9 and stopper Simon scored 5 points. For Sweden, Raiders Parminder and Mandeep scored 15 points each, while stopper Ajaydeep scored 7 points.
MATCH 2: MEN SECTION: CANADA DEFEAT ARGENTINA 59-22: In second match of men section, the Canadians defeated Argentina by a big margin of 59-22. Canadian raiders Vicky Ghotra scored 17 points, Gurpreet scoored 13 points while stoppers Kulwinder Samra and Varinder scored 6 and 5 points respectively. For Argentina, Namuel and Bruno Alberto scored 7 and 8 points respectively.
MATCH 3: WOMEN SECTION: NEW ZEALAND DEFEAT PAKISTAN 38-30: The New Zealand team emerged as crowd favourites as they defeated Pakistan by 38-30 today. By Half time, the score was tied between the teams as 17-17. New Zealand raiders Elizabeth Motu scored 13 and Lani scored 10 points and stopper Sariya scored 5 points. Pakistan raider Madeeha Latif scored 13 points and Nida scored 7 points while stopper Sumaira scored 5 and Ruksan scored 1.
MATCH 4: PAKISTAN DEFEAT ENGLAND BY 58-31: The Pakistan team defeated its opponents England by 58-31. By half time, the Pakistan team was leading by 31-11. Pakistan raiders Hussain scored 12, Rehman 10 and stoppers Ramzan scored 5 and Janjua scored 2 points. While England raiders Jaskaran scored 11, Ranjit scored 10 and stoppers Baljit scored 1 point for his team.
=================== PUNJAB TRANSFERS ONE IPS AND 11 PPS OFFICERS Chandigarh, December 11: The Punjab government today issued transfer/posting orders of one IPS and 11 PPS officers with immediate effect. According to an official spokesman, Mr. Dhruv Dhaiya, IPS has been posted as ASP, Dasuya. Similarly, Baljit Singh has been posted as DSP/SD, Fazilka, Veer Chand as DSP/Investigation, Fazilka, Balwinder Singh, as DSP/NRI, SAS Nagar, Ashwani Kumar as DSP, 3rd IRB, Ludhiana,Sukhwinder Singh, DSP.4th IRB, Kapurthala, Jugraj Singh, DSP/Investigation, Amritsar(Rural), Jasbir Singh, DSP/Hqrs., Tarntaran, Gurmail Kaur, DSP/7th IRB, Kapurthala, Harinder Pal Singh, DSP/80th Bn., PAP, Jalandhar,Jagwinder Singh, DSP/Investigation, Hoshiarpur and Rajbalwinder Singh, DSP/SD, Kharar . ------------
Ghana invites Sukhbir Badal to mature business relations (Keen to promote farming, agro-processing and education) Chandigarh, December 10 - President of Ghana Republic Mr. John Dramani Mahama has invited Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal to visit Ghana along with a delegation to initiate joint venture in specific areas manufacturing, farming, agro-processing, jewellery making, hydro-power projects, education etc. Envisioning strong ties between duo states, Mr. Mahama emphasised that Deputy CM along with high level delegation of progressive farmers and captains of industry should visit Ghana in coming months so that the both states could grow in leaps and bounds in agro and industrial sectors. In an invitation letter he said Ghana was keen to promote farming, agro-processing, education, hydro power and other areas with the mutual cooperation from the agrarian state Punjab. Recalling the deliberations held by Ghana delegation led by its Deputy Minister for Energy and Petroleum Benjamin Dagadu in the month of August, Mr. Mahama rolled out a proposal for setting up of progressive Punjabi farmers in Ghana. He also assured that they would allocate fertile agri-land to Punjabi farmers on lease. President of Ghana said his country also aspires to initiate meaningful business ties with Punjab in specific areas. Mr. Mahama also offered that Punjabi entrepreneurs could also take advantage of natural resources of Ghana by setting up their units over their while Punjab could assist Ghana in becoming an agro-based state. Mr. Mahama urged Deputy CM to send confirmation of their visit as early as possible as Ghana was also interested to take help of Punjab in power sector also as this state has set new milestone in power generation sector. EOM - PUNJAB TRANSFERS TWO TEHSILDARS AND NINE NAIB TEHISLDARS Chandigarh December 10: The Punjab Government today issued transfer/posting orders of two Tehsildars and nine Naib Tehisldars in the state with immediate effect. According to an official spokesman of state Revenue Department Mr. Lakhwinder Singh S/o Mr. Pyara Singh and Lakhwinder Singh S/o Tarlochan Singh, both tehsildars have been posted at Dhuri and Nakodar respectively. Besides this, Nine Naib Tehsildars namely Jagseer Singh has been posted as Naib Tehsildar agrarian Sangrur with additional charge of Dhar kalan. Similarly Dharminder Kumar at Nakodar, Harminder Singh Sidhu at Sahnewal, Rupinder Singh Manku at Tapa, Hargobind Singh at SYL Rajpura, K.C. Dutta at Nurpur Bedi, Harkirat Singh at M.L.A Bathinda, Baljinderpal Kaur at Rampuraphul and addtional charge Bhagta Bhai Ka and Neeraj Kumar Sharma at Mamdot, the spokesman added. - DISTRICT LEVEL NODAL OFFICER BE DEPUTED TO DEAL WITH COMPASSIONATE GROUND CASES: DR. CHEEMA · NODAL OFFICER TO PERSONALLY PREPARE CASE AND ENSURE THE RECRUITMENT IN SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD · KIN OF DECEASED EMPLOYEES’ WOULD GET RECRUITMENT LETTER AT HOME CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 10: The Education Department has given go ahead to depute Nodal Officer in all the districts to deal with the compassionate ground cases for recruitment. These Nodal officer would be responsible for the scrutiny of such cases and subsequently putting such cases for the approval of the authorities. Nodal officers would personally ensure recruitment letter to the kin of the diseased employee after putting up any case in specified time. Disclosing this here today Mr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Eduction Minister, Punjab said that concerned District Education Officer have been given the mandate to depute Nodal Officer from amongst the officers of the department. He said that this Nodal Officer would personally visit the home of the diseased employee and would prepare the case. He said that Nodal Officer would be held responsible if the kin of the deceased employee has to wander around the government offices for getting his case cleared. If the Nodal Officer found that the any application is not supported with requisite documents, he would personally visit the home of the applicant and ensure the case is cleared in time bound manner. The Education Minister further said that strict instructions have been issued to the senior officers of the department to clear the pendency of compassionate ground cased till December 31, 2014. He said that officer have also been told to ensure that all the applicants must get recruitment letters before this date.
CM ASKS CAPTAIN TO REFRAIN FROM ISSUING BASELESS STATEMENTS HE WAS SERVING THE STATE AS PER THE DESIRE OF ELECTORATE DEMOCRACY BASED ON VERDICT OF PEOPLE AND NOT ON WHIMS AND FANCIES OF AN INDIVIDUAL PM’s INITIATIVE OF CALLING A MEETING OF CMs A RIGHT STEP TOWARDS IMPLEMENTATION OF FEDERAL STRUCTURE IN THE COUNTRY STATE CONGRESS WOULD CRUMBLE LIKE ‘PACK OF CARDS’ LAYS FOUNDATION STONE OF PROJECT TO BEAUTIFY AND COVER OPEN DRAIN IN QADIAN Qadian (Gurdaspur), December 10- Advising the former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh to refrain from issuing baseless statements, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the Congress MP should not forget that he (Mr. Badal) was bestowed upon the responsibility of serving the state by the people and only the electorate had the power of removing him Interacting with the media persons after laying down the foundation stone of a project for covering and beautifying an open drain here today, the Chief Minister said that it was the people of Punjab who had elected him as the Chief Minister of the state for the record fifth term adding that he was serving the state as per the wishes of party and the public. Mr. Badal said that throughout his political career he had been a votary of morality and had never stooped so low by issuing undesirable and unwarranted statements. “My friend Captain Amarinder must understand that democracy is based on the verdict of people and not by whims and fancies of any individual” he added. When asked to comment on the botched eye surgeries in Ghuman village of the district, the Chief Minister said that he had already ordered a high level probe to inquire into the matter and no one whosoever affluent he was would not be spared at any cost. Mr. Badal said that every culprit of this heinous crime would be brought to book as per the law of the land. Replying to another query, the Chief Minister said that there was no dearth of funds to eradicate the curse of drugs from the state and the state government was making all out efforts in this direction by setting up drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centers for the addicts. Reiterating the firm commitment of the state government to make Punjab a drug free state, he solicited fulsome support and cooperation of the public in this noble cause. Mr. Badal also said that the only solution for checking this menace was to totally cut down the supply line of drugs both from within the country and from abroad for which they were regularly taking up this issue with the Union government. Later on addressing a public gathering, the Chief Minister said that the project to cover and beautify the open drain would prove to be a boon for the residents of this town. He said that this project conceived at a cost of Rs 25 crore would solve one of the major problems of the city. Mr. Badal said that the state government would take every step for developing this historic town of immense significance. The Chief Minister further said that the state government has been according top priority to the education and health sector in the state. He said that massive program for the infra structure development in the government schools have been initiated by the state government. Likewise, Mr. Badal said that concerted efforts were being made to supply potable drinking water to the residents across the state. Making a scathing attack on the Congress party for excessive centralization of powers, the Chief Minister said that the successive Congress governments at the centre had encroached upon the rights of the states which led to regional imbalance in the country. He said that though the states were responsible to people for every work but they had little power. So, Mr. Badal said that the only solution to this was implementation of Federal Structure in the country. “Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s initiative of calling a meeting of Chief Minister’s in national capital was a right step in this direction” he added. The Chief Minister said that Congress was a spent force in the country and it hardly had any future in the political scenario of the country as well as state. Quipping at state Congress leadership, he said that it was a divided house which would soon crumble like a ‘Pack of cards’. Mr. Badal exhorted the people to not get swayed away by the misleading propaganda of the Congress leaders. The Chief Minister was accompanied by former Minister Jathedar Sewa Singh Sekhwan, former MLA Mr. Lakhbir Singh Lodhinangal, Youth Akali leader Mr. Jagroop Singh Sekhwan, Akali leader Jathedar Jarnail Singh Mahal, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of Police Mr. AK Mittal, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Abhinav Trikha and Chief Adminsitrator Amritsar Development Authority Mr. Sandeep Rishi. ----- KARANVIR SINGH INDORA APPOINTED AS MEMBER PUNJAB STATE SCHEDULED CASTES COMMISSION CM GRANTS EXTENSION TO MEMBER PSSCC PARKASH SINGH GARDHIWALA BY THREE YEARS CHANDIGARH DECEMBER 10: The Punjab Government today appointed Mr. Karanvir Singh Indora as the Member of Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission (PSSCC). Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister Office said that the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this fact this morning. The formal orders related to the appointment of Mr. Karanvir Singh Indora would be issued in due course of time. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also approved to grant extension to Mr. Parkash Singh Gardhiwala, Member Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission (PSSCC) by another term of three years, which was to end on December 28, 2014. - TEN MARKET COMMITTEES OF BARNALA, BATHINDA, LUDHIANA AND AMRITSAR DISTRICTS GET NEW CHAIRMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS CM GIVES NOD FOR THESE NOMINATIONS IN BARNALA, BHADAUR, MAHILKALAN, TAPPA IN BARNALA DISTRICT, BATHINDA AND SANGAT IN BATHINDA DISTRICT DORAHA AND MALAUDH IN LUDHIANA DISTRICT, MAJITHA AND GEHRI IN AMRITSAR DISTRICT MARKET COMMITTEES VICE CHAIRMAN OF ABOHAR MARKET COMMITTEE NOMINATED CHANDIGARH DECEMBER 10: The Punjab Government today nominated new Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members in the ten market committees of Barnala, Bathinda, Ludhiana and Amritsar districts. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this effect this morning and the formal orders regarding the nomination of the Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members of market Committees in Barnala, Bhadaur, Mahilkalan, Tappa in Barnala district, Bathinda and Sangat in Bathinda district Doraha and Malaudh in Ludhiana district, Majitha and Gehri In Amritsar District would be issued shortly. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also approved the nomination of Mr. Rajinder Singh Brar as Vice Chairman of the Market Committee of Abohar in Fazilka district. As per the orders Mr. Bhola Singh and Mr. Parveen Bansal have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Barnala Market Committee whereas Mr. Najar Singh, Mr. Balwinder Singh, Mr. Lavpreet Singh, Mr. Chamkaur Singh, Mr. Hardev Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh Dullat, Mr. Bitu Singh, Mr. Dalvir Dass, Mrs. Sukhpal Kaur, Mr.Rameshwar Lal, Mr.Harmail Singh, Mr.Beant Singh, Mr. Balraj Kumar and Mr. Ranjodh Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Baldev Singh and Mr. Narotam Kochar have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Bhadaur Market Committee whereas Mr. Harbans Singh Bhagike, Mr. Sukhchain Singh, Mr. Jalmandar Singh, Mr. Gurcharan Singh, Mrs. Manjit Kaur, Mrs. Sarvjitjit Kaur, Mr.Nahar Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr.Tarsem Singh, Babu Ajai Kumar, Mr. Sarup Chand, Mr. Saraj Singh Majhuke, Mr. Gaggandip Gaggi and Mr. Harbans Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Similarly, Mr. Ajit Singh and Mr. Avjit Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Mahilkalan Market Committee whereas Mr. Sarabjit Singh, Mr. Sewak Singh, Mrs. Sukhminder Kaur, Mr. Gurmit Singh, Mr. Sukhwinder Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr. Mahinder Singh, Mr. Jasvir Singh, Mrs. Suhvir Kaur, Mr. Jagdev Singh, Mr. Baldev Singh, Mr. Baljinder Singh, Mr. Major Singh and Mr. Ikatar Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. For Tappa Market Committee, Mr. Karamjit Singh and Mr. Darshan Singh have been nominated as Chairman and Vice Chairman whereas Mr. Sukhpal Singh Samra Singh, Mr. Jagga Singh, Mr. Sukhdev Singh, Mr. Labh Singh, Mr. Gurtej Singh, Mr. Balwinder Singh, Mr. Teja Singh, Mrs. Harbans Kaur, Mr. Rakesh Kumar Goel, Mr. Lakha Singh, Mr. Rachpal Singh, Mr. Davinder Kumar, Mr. Yadvinder Singh and Mr. Kulwant Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Sikandar Singh Dhillon has been nominated as Chairman of Bathinda Market Committee, whereas Mrs. Charanjit Kaur, Mr. Gurjant Singh, Mr. Gursewak Singh, Mr. Paramjit Singh, Mr. Jagsir Singh, Mr. Lakhvir Singh, Mr.Balkaur Singh, Mr.Sanjiv Kumar, Mr. Sukhjinder Singh, Mr. Surinder Katia, Mr. Vijay Kansal, Mr. Satish Kumar Babu and Mr. Harjagjit Singh Bitti besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. In the same manner, Mr. Sarabjit Singh and Mr. Parveen Chand have been nominated the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Sangat Market Committee whereas Mrs. Kulbir Kaur, Mr. Sandip Singh, Mr. Makhan Singh, Mr. Parvinder Singh, Mr. Jagjit Singh, Mr. Pawan Kumar, Mr.Sohan Lal, Mr. Chiman Lal, Mr. Sarbjit Singh and Mr. Jasmail Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. As per the orders, Mr. Jarnail Singh and Mr. Jagdev Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Doraha Market Committee in Ludhiana district whereas Mr. Kuldip Singh, Mr. Manjit Singh, Mr. Inderjit Singh, Mr. Shivraj Singh, Mr. Nirbhey Singh, Mr. Sukhdev Singh, Mr. Tehal Singh, Mrs. Charanjit Kaur, Mr. Parminder Singh, Mr. Narinderpal Singh, Mr. Vivek Sood, Mr. Gurdev Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh and Mr. Bharpur Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Gurjit Singh and Mr. Varinderprit Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Malaudh Market Committee whereas Mr. Amar Singh, Mr. Pritpal Singh, Mr. Bahadur Singh, Mr. Gurjant Singh, Mr. Sampuran Singh, Mr. Manjit Singh, Mrs. Narinder Kaur, Mrs. Kulwinder Kaur, Mr. Sanjiv Puri, Mr. Harpal Singh, Mr. Sodhi Singh, Mr. Sanjiv Modgill, Mr. Manjit Singh and Mr. Zora Singh, besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Meanwhile, Mr.Balbir Singh Chandi and Mr. Durga Dass have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Majitha Market Committee in Amritsar district whereas Mr. Rachpal Singh, Mr. Amarjit, Mr. Nirmal Singh, Mr. Manoj Kumar, Mr. Shavinder Singh, Mr. Sucha Singh, Mr. Tarsem Singh, Mr. Dhir Singh, Mrs. Joginder Kaur, Mr. Anup Singh, Mr. Sukhdev Singh, Mr. Yunish Massih, Mr. Kulwant Singh and Mr. Satnam Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Manjit Singh and Mr. Surjit Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Gehri Market Committee whereas Mr. Angrej Singh, Mr. Balraj Singh, Mr. Jagdip Singh, Mr. Rajinder Singh, Mr. Mangdev Singh, Mr. Kanwarjit Singh, Mr. Gurpreet Singh, Mrs. Kulwinder Kaur, Mr. Gurvinder Singh, Mr. Kunan Singh, Mr. Amandeep Singh, Mr. Kuldip Singh and Mr. Dilsher Singh, besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. - 104 acres reserved for medical institutions in New Chandigarh-Sukhbir Badal (Punjab annunciates plot allotment policy to setup medical institutions in Medi-city) (Scrutiny committee to ensure transparency in allotment of plots) Chandigarh, December 10– With a view to provide quality health care education and ultra modern treatment facilities, the Punjab government has finalized plot allotment policy to setup multi-specialty hospitals, medical colleges and medical research institutes in medi-city at New Chandigarh and a scrutiny committee has also been constituted to ensure transparency in allotments to eligible enterprises. Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman of housing and urban development department informed that keeping in view the massive response from the private sector to invest in health care and biosciences, Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal has envisioned to setup a dedicated hub for health care facilities to realize the requirements of investors near the state capital. "Total private health care spending in Punjab is about 82 percent which proves that the market is largely un-explored and it offers a good opportunity for investors to create medical facilities in the state having higher per capita income and more spending power”, the spokesman said. He informed that Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal, who also holds the housing and urban development portfolio, had strategically visualized medi-city in New Chandigarh in the neighborhood of edu-city for development for multi-specialty hospitals, medical university, medical college cum hospital for which GMADA has reserved about 258 acres of land. He further added that as per allotment policy recently cleared by the Deputy CM, 104 acres would be allotted to setup hospitals, medical institutes and research centers whereas balance land would be developed to construct roads, parks, green belts and parking along with residential accommodations, commercial convention centre and other utilities. He informed that 50 acres out a total of 104 acres had already been allotted to Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre which was under construction. To ensure transparency in plot allotments, Deputy Chief Minister has constituted a scrutiny committee under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary comprising Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Chief Executive Officer Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion, Secretary Housing and Urban Development, Secretary Science and Technology, Secretary Medical Education and Research, Director Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) and Chief Administrator GMADA as its members. Highlighting merits of medi-city, Mr Badal stressed that availability of land, skilled manpower, connectivity by rail, road and air, excellent upcoming urban infrastructure, improved power situation, world class communication facilities, vicinity of PGIMER and upcoming Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital has offered conducive environment at New Chandigarh near Mullanpur for further development and growth of health care facilities in Punjab. EOM - Harsimrat approves food processing cum business incubation center for PAU Says centre will support farmers, youth in skilling and training · PAU-IICPT signs MoU in presence of Food Processing Industries Minister Chandigarh, December 10: Punjab Agriculture University is all set to have a ‘Food Processing cum Business Incubation Centre’ at PAU Regional Research Station, Bathinda with Union Food Processing Industries Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal today approving the establishment of this first of its kind centre in Punjab. A memorandum to this effect has been signed between Punjab Agriculture University and Indian Institute of Crop Processing Technology, Thanjavur Tamilnadu in the presence of Mrs. Badal. The Centre will be a joint venture of PAU and IICPT and will cater to the modern needs of peasantry in the area of food processing besides enabling farmers and youth to acquire the necessary skill and training. Giving details in this regard, Mrs. Badal said this centre will be operational within 6 months and that the same model would be replicated in other areas of Punjab. She said this centre would go a long way in supporting the farmers of the region as well as educating and making them aware of modern agri and marketing techniques. She said the centre would be also be a boon for both the agriculture community as it would focus on processing of fruits and vegetables and milling of grains. The Food Processing Minister also informed that the her ministry was contemplating to create mini food parks in different areas of Punjab to give a push to the processing of local produce to facilitate farmers to produce high yields with marketing facilities. She said these parks would be spread over a 20 to 25 acres. She also said creation of primary processing centres was also the focus area of her ministry under which cooperatives would be engaged to setup ultra modern processing centres for milk, fruit and vegetables. She also gave a call to Punjab farmers to take full advantage of various schemes of department to come out of the vicious paddy-wheat cycle. She said requisite grants would be given by her ministry for setting up state-of-the-art abattoirs vis-a-vis reefer vehicle schemes. She said her ministry would provide grant of Rs. 5 lakh each to individual meat shop owner for requisite refrigeration facilities. The MoU was signed by Mr. B.S. Dhillon Vice Chancellor, PAU and Dr. K.Singaravadivel, Director IICPT in the presence of Mrs. Badal. 0- PUNJAB DISMISSES 6 VETERINARY DOCTORS Chandigarh, December 10: The Punjab Government has taken a serious view of its employees proceeding abroad and extending their stay in unauthorized manner and has dismissed 6 veterinary doctors for prolonged absence from duty. A notification in this regard has been issued. Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson said that Dr. Gurpreet Singh batth, veterinary officer, civil veterinary hospital, brass (fathegarh sahib), dr. Pushpinder singh, veterinary officer, veterinary polyclinic, sangrur, dr. Ravinderpal singh, veterinary officer, civil veterinary hospital, katthu nangal (amritsar), dr. Harbhajan singh, veterinary officer, civil veterinary hospital, mandi gobindgarh (fathegarh sahib), dr. Neeraj sharma, veterinary officer, civil veterinary hospital, sanaur (patiala) and dr. Baljit singh, veterinary officer, civil veterinary hospital, dhudike (moga) have been dismissed according to rules for unauthorized absent from duty. - IRAN, DENMARK REGISTER WINS IN FIRST TWO MATCHES OF KABADDI WORLD CUP 2014 11 December 2014
CS PUTS WORK OF WAR HEROES MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM ON FAST TRACK - INSTRUCTS TO RESOLVE ALL ISSUES AND PROVIDE NECESSARY CLEARANCE WITHIN NEXT 7 DAYS - SUB GROUPS AND COMMITTEES FORMED TO EFFECTIVELY MANAGE AND MONITOR THE WORK WITHIN TIME CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 10: Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Chief Secretary today put the construction work of Punjab State War Heroes Memorial and Museum, Amritsar on fast track clearing different impediments coming in its way by setting up institutional monitoring system. Reviewing the progress work of in a meeting of steering committee held here today he said that to timely complete the dream project of Chief Minister Punjab, S Parkash Singh Badal to commemorate the remarkable contribution made by the Punjabi soldiers and officers; all the concerned Departments have to work round the clock. During this meeting, attended by the senior most officials of the State, issues related to construction of the site, provision of funds, concept finalization, clearances etc. were discussed. Chief Secretary issued instructions to Financial Commissioner (Forest) and Secretary PWD to resolve all issues and provide necessary clearance regarding the Memorial within next 7 days. Chief Secretary asked the concept committee to complete the study of all the historical aspects to be displayed in the museum and get the same approved from Chief Minister in next three days. Batting for evolving a foolproof mechanism for the Operation and Maintenance of the Memorial, the Chief Secretary said that integrated Maintenance of this ambitious project after its completion must also be ensured. Giving more details, a spokesperson further said that Chief Secretary will meet Defence Secretary and other concerned officers of GoI in next week to obtain the Artefacts, Trophies and other material to be displayed in the War Memorial. He said that sub groups and sub committees have been formed to effectively manage the work within time limits. This state-of-the art memorial cum museum to come over an area of seven acre on Amritsar-Attari Road. He further said that War Heroes Memorial would become a source of inspiration for the future generations and hoped that this prestigious memorial would act as a lighthouse to inspire the youngsters for serving the nation thereby displaying the ethos of Punjabi's valour and patriotism. He said that there was no dearth of funds for this ambitious project coming up at a cost of Rs. 100 crore and Rs. 15 crore has already been released by the Finance Department. It is pertinent to mention that this war memorial cum museum would be equipped with ultra-modern techniques and the visitors will get a mesmerizing affect during the visit to the place. The spokesperson added that the steering committee formed to monitor the pace of work of this project shall meet regularly to expedite the work of this project. Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Technical Advisor to Chief Minister Lt. General (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal, Secretary Defence Services Welfare Mr. SR Ladhar, Secretary PWD & MD PIDB Mr. Anurag Aggarwal , Divisional Commissioner Jalandhar, Mr R Venkata Ratnam , Deputy Commissioner Amritsar, Mr Ravi Bhagat, Chief Architect Ms. Sapna, Brig (Retd) J S Arora, Director, Defence Welfare. -- GURU GOBIND SINGH MARG COMPLETION BE TREATED AS A NATIONAL PROJECT: BADAL APPEALS TO PM Chandigarh, December 9 - Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today appealed to the Prime Minsiter Mr Naridner Modi to treat the upgradation of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Marg linking three Holy Takhats of Sikh religion as “a national project and to expedite upgradation of the Phase II of the Marg which symbolizes the spirit of national unity, integrity and pride for which the Sikh Gurus and their followers made supreme sacrifices.” The Chief Minister would soon formally take up the issue with the Prime Minister as well as with the Union Surface Transport Minister Mr. Nitin Gadkari to press for the completion of the upgradation of the road project as a top-end national communication network project. “This key artery of our religio-cultural heritage stands out as a symbolic pathway of nation’s progress from years of repression and slavery to a life of religious dignity and political freedom. As such, it deserves to be show-cased as a monument of national pride and religious zeal,” said the Chief Minister in a statement in Chandigarh this morning. On the national map, the road stretches from Sri Anandpur Sahib to Takhat Sri Dam Dama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo) in Punjab and then on to Takhat Sri Hazoor Sahib (Nanded) in Maharastra. A portion of 1123.30 Km of this rout falls in the state of Rajasthan with 690.90 Km portion on National highway, whereas, 163.90 Km falls in Haryana, 630.2 Km in Madhya Pradesh, 362.40 Km in Maharashtra, 18 Km in Delhi and 177 Km of this rout falls in Uttar Pardesh. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for expediting work on Phase II of the project , involving the extension of the Marg beyond Talwandi Sabo to Takhat Sri Huzoor Sahib, Nanded, virtually spanning the length of the country, symbolizing the unity of the nation. He directed the state government officials to complete the ongoing up-gradation work of the Phase I of the Marg’ from Sri Anandpur Sahib to Takhat Sri Dam Dama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo) under the first phase. The premiliary surveys on Phase II of the project had been undertaken sometime back and the Chief Minister’s appeal to the PM comes in the wake of some bottlenecks that the project had encountered in some states in its earlier version . A team of PWD officials and experts had recently surveyed the part II route and identified the portions required to be strengthened by the respective estate governments. The Chief Minister further directed the department to prepare a design for milestone and destination display board with information of the historic background of each site along the path - HARSIMRAT BADAL SEEKS IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF Rs 5 LAKH COMPENSATION TO 1984 ANTI- SIKH RIOT VICTIMS •Appeals to expedite justice by putting Delhi riot cases on daily hearing •Demands action against Sajjan Kumar in Nangloi case Chandigarh, December 9 – Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal today urged Union Home Minister Mr. Rajnath Singh to immediately release Rs 5 lakh compensation to the victims of the 1984 anti Sikh riots as had been decided one month back. In a statement issued here, Mrs. Badal said that she had met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh thrice in the last two months to press for this demand as the entire Sikh community had welcomed the announcement of the compensation and wanted it to be distributed amongst the victims at the earliest. "I have urged the Home minister to expedite the implementation of this decision besides taking the next series of steps to ensure justice to the victims of the 1984 carnage and bring closure to their sufferings". The Union minister said now that voting process had been completed in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Jharkhand, the time was appropriate to disperse the compensation before the election commission announced code of conduct for Delhi polls. Meanwhile, Mrs Badal also demanded daily hearing of cases to expedite justice for Delhi riot victims. She said successive Congress governments at the centre had deliberately created obstacles to ensure the kingpins of the 1984 carnage could not be brought to book. Besides day to day hearing of all cases, she also demanded action against Congress leader Sajjar Kumar for his involvement in the Nangloi case. She said in 1991, the police registered FIR No. 67/87 at Nangloi against Sajjan Kumar on the recommendations of the Jain-Aggarwal Committee and during investigation, his name appeared prominently in the statements of the witnesses, but the Delhi police gave a clean chit to him under pressure from the Congress and later filed a chargesheet in 1995 against other accused. “Delhi Police prepared a chargesheet against Sajjan Kumar for the murder of four Sikhs and the same was signed by the Inspector and the ACP. The charge sheet also recorded that he was not arrested due to a law and order problem and the court may summon him. This chargesheet has not been filed in the court till date” she added. Referring to a recent sting operation, Mrs Badal said it was revealed that various SHOs of the worst hit areas in Delhi admitted that they had failed to act as a force and even acted in connivance with the then Congress government to give a free run to those who murdered and even burnt Sikhs alive. She said a separate inquiry should be constituted to probe the police- politician nexus in the riots. EOM - CM SEEKS PERSONAL INTERVENTION OF PATIL FOR CHECKING POLLUTION IN GHAGGAR RIVER PATIL ASSURES FULSOME SUPPORT AND COOPERATION IN THIS NOBLE CAUSE ASKS OFFICERS TO SUBMIT MONTHLY PROGRESS REPORT ON PROJECTS TO STOP POLLUTING EFFLUENTS INTO GHAGGAR JOINT TEAM OF PUNJAB AND UT OFFICERS TO MONITOR THE POINTS CAUSING POLLUTION Chandigarh, December 9- Reiterating his firm commitment to make the rivers of the state clean and pollution free, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought the personal intervention of Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh Mr. Shivraj V Patil for checking the unabated discharge of polluted water from Chandigarh city into Ghaggar river through the Sukhna Choe. The Chief Minister, on whose request the Governor/ Union Territory (UT) Administrator called a meeting at Punjab Raj Bhawan this morning, apprised him that untreated sewage and sub standard treated waste water of Chandigarh city was carried by Sukhna Choe into Ghaggar river in the state. He said that this untreated waste water was causing a major health hazard for the people living along with the Ghaggar, due to which they were facing a lot of hardships. Mr. Badal apprised the Governor that there were eight vulnerable points in the Chandigarh city through which untreated waste water/ sewage was being thrown in the Ghaggar river adding that the need of the hour was to plug these points. Impressing upon Mr. Patil to take an immediate action in this regard, the Chief Minister said that a survey conducted by the Punjab Pollution Control Board has recently identified these points including IT Park, Kishangarh, Indira Colony, Shastri Colony, Manimajra, Bapu Dham Colony, Dariya, Hallomajra, STPs at Raipur Khurd and Raipur Kalan as the main sources of pollution in river Ghaggar. Listing the steps initiated by the state government to reduce pollution in Satluj, Beas and Ghaggar rivers, Mr. Badal informed the Governor that Sewerage Treatment Plants have been set across the state besides a close tab was being kept on the Industrial units to disallow the flowing of untreated waste water in the rivers. Likewise, he said that in a step aimed at using the treated water for irrigational and other purposes the state government has prescribed the BOD limits in water to 10. Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Mr. Patil said that every step would be taken to ensure zero discharge of untreated waste water in the Sukhna Choe which drains into river Ghaggar. He said that the administration has already given in principle approval for sanctioning funds worth Rs 2.5 crore to plug the points causing pollution in the Ghaggar. Mr. Patil also asked the Chief Minister to depute the officers of the state government and Punjab Pollution Control Board to conduct a joint inspection with the officers of the Chandigarh administration to monitor these sources of untreated waste water. The Governor also asked the officers of the Chandigarh administration to gear up the entire machinery for ensuring completion of entire work related to stopping of untreated waste water discharge into river Ghaggar through Sukhna Choe passing through the city within stipulated time period. Mr. Patil said that any laxity or inordinate delay on part of officers in executing these projects of paramount public importance would not be tolerated at any cost. He also asked the officers to submit monthly reports regarding the progress of the work to the Chief Minister's Office. The Chief Minister was accompanied his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Gupta, CEO Punjab Water Supply and Sewerage Board Mr. DK Tiwari, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr. S Karunaraju and Chairman Punjab Pollution Control Board Mr. Ravinder Singh. ----------------- PUNJAB PROMOTES TWO NAIB TEHSILDARS AS TEHSILDARS · CURRENT DUTY CHARGE AS TEHSILDARS FOR 11 NAIB TEHSILDARS AS TEHSILDARS Chandigarh, December 9: The Punjab Government today promoted two naib-tehsildars as Tehsildars besides giving current duty charge (CDC) to 11 Naib Tehsildars as Tehsildars. According to an official spokesman two naib-tehsildars namely Mr. Jaswinder Singh Tiwana (Patiala Circle) and Mr. Lakhwinder Singh Gill (Ferozepur Circle) has been promoted as Tehsildars. The spokesman further said that names of 11 naib-tehsildars given current duty charge as Tehsildars include Manmohan Singh, who has been posted at Bagha Purana, Beant Singh Sidhu at Jagraon, Ashok Kumar Bansal at Banga, Mr. Varinder Kumar Garg at Mukerian, Sukhpinder Kaur at Patiala, Navtej Singh at Budhlada, Lakhwinder Singh S/o Tarlochan Singh at Dhuri, Satnam Singh at Patti, Gurwaryam Singh at Dera Bassi, Lakhwinder Singh-2 S/o Piara Singh at Nakodar, Harbans Singh at Vigilance Bureau Punjab Chandigarh, and Lakhwinder Singh Gill at Malout. Besides this, Jaspal Singh Brar has been posted as Tehsildar Abohar. ------------ Rupnagar to witness inauguration of next world cup kabaddi-Sukhbir Badal (Anandpur Sahib to get status of Sri Anandpur Sahib within a week) (Job approvals to 125 sportspersons in upcoming cabinet) (State constitutes Punjab Institute of Sports for 11 sports streams) Rupnagar, December 9 - Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that inauguration ceremony of 6th World Cup Kabaddi would be held at Rupnagar. Mr. Badal also asserted that religious and historic town Anandpur Sahib would get the status of Sri Anandpur Sahib within a week. Mr. Badal approved the demand put forth by Punjab Education Minister Mr. Daljeet Singh Cheema for status of Sri Anandpur Sahib to birth place of Khalsa Panth. He said directions would be issued to all authorities concerned and notification in this regard to be issued within a week. He said in view of the historical background of Roopnagar the state has decided to inaugurate the world kabaddi cup from this city. While addressing mammoth gathering at local Nehru Stadium after inaugurating third day matches of 5th World Cup Kabaddi, Mr. Badal said Kabaddi has coined another separate identity for Punjab as this rustic sport has extended its wings over all pacific. Reiterating his resolve to bring Kabaddi to higher scales besides witnessing its inclusion in Commonwealth, Asian and Olympics, Mr. Badal he has spoken to Canadian MPs for its inclusion in Commonwealth games. He said in view of the historical background of Rupnagar the state has decided to inaugurate 6th world kabaddi cup from this city. Talking about recent establishment of state-of-the-art Punjab Institute of Sports, Mr. Badal informed the gathering that it would have 11 sports directorates for different sports disciplines. He said each stream would have a world renowned player as its Director to cater the needs of players besides uplifting the standards of that game. He said all the spending would be made by Punjab Government to produce quality players. Mr. Badal also informed 125 medal winners of Olympics, Commonwealth and Asian games would get their job approvals in ensuing cabinet meet on December 16. He said Punjab has registered revolutionary initiatives in education, sports, infrastructure, power etc. He said now Punjab has become a power surplus state and all set to lay 4/6 lane road network at the cost of Rs. 11000 crore. Deputy CM said construction of Rupnagar-Phagwara, Chandigarh-Ludhiana, Chandigarh-Bathinda, Amritsar-Ganganagar 6 lane highways would be completed in coming two years. Mr. Badal also announced that Punjab villages would soon have Sewa Kendras, which would provide all 249 citizen centric services to the natives of 3-4 villages having joint population of 5000 under one roof. The Deputy CM also felicitated Dr. Cheema for taking reforms in Education Department along development of Roopnagar. Mr. Badal also had interaction with the players of Pakistan and Denmark teams. He also enjoyed the kabbadi match played between Pakistan and Mexican women teams. On the occasion Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Chaudhary Nand Lal and Mr. Inderbir Singh Bolaria, MLA Mr. Pargat Singh, former minister Bibi Satwant Kaur Sandhu, former MLA Jathedar Ujagar Singh Wadali, PRTC Chairman Mr. Avtar Singh Brar were also present. ----- PUNJAB ALL SET TO REJUVENATE VILLAGE PONDS ON PRIORITY-MALUKA Chandigarh,December9: Punjab is all set to roll out plan to execute rejuvenation and renovation of village ponds across the state in 12673 villages. Giving this information here Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister said that the renovation of village ponds would be done on priority basis to ensure pollution free environment, maintenance and creation of old and new green belts. He said in the absence of any treatment plants, ponds become the prominent disposal points for the waste water in the state 1.73 crore people roughly 2/3rd population live in 12673 villages, Whereas rural population is directly depended upon farming for its livelihood. He said that Ponds are significant resource of water in village life that has been located at panchayat land. The Minister said repairing and cleaning has been neglected over a long period. Mr. Maluka said that now Government has decided to restore these ponds and increases the water holding capacity.Giving detais of the problems being faced, Mr. Maluka said that cause of procrastination of Ponds, overflows become common problem in villages that water come into streets. The major reason behind this problem is silt and other in organic materials gradually settle down into the base of ponds that reduced the capacity of ponds. Emphasizing the importance of ponds in village economy, he said that ponds are easiest and cheapest source of recharging ground water and surplus water causes government has been planed to project renovates these ponds .Moreover groundwater is four-fifth domestic water supply in rural areas and around half that of urban and industrial areas .According to the International Irrigation Management Institute (IIMI) estimates that India is using its underground water resources at least twice as fast they are being replenished. The water table almost everywhere in India is falling at between one to three meters every year. Further he said ponds are heritably part of rural Punjab that could be used for crop’s irrigation and for multi-purposes. These ponds are divided in to four sections on the basis of waste stabilization pond technology that is recommended by Gol as well as UNICEF. He said that Project is designed to cover the 12282 ponds. The Rural development And Panchayats Department is responsible for complete financial and physical controls for getting the project implemented as per specified schedule.
· FOUR MATCHES TO BE PLAYED IN KHANNA TOMORROW · FOUR TIME WINNER INDIAN TEAM TO STARTS ITS JOURNEY OF KABADDI WORLD CUP FROM KHANNA · IRRIGATION MINISTER MR SHARANJIT SINGH DHILLON TO BE THE CHIEF GUEST ==================
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10 December 2014 (venue A.S.College Stadium Khanna) 12.00 noon onwards
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PUNJAB FARMERS AVAIL HIGHEST RATE OF SUBSIDY IN NORTH INDIA · 5 lac quintal wheat seeds distributed to farmers across Punjab · High yielding varieties offered at subsidized rates · Punjab provides seeds at highest rate of Subsidy in comparison to Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, U.P. and Jammu & Kashmir ChandigarhDecember9: Agriculture Minister Punjab S. Tota Singh disclosed here today that over 5 lac quintal seeds of wheat have been distributed to farmers across Punjab through the National Seed Corporation, Punseed, Punjab Agriculture University, IFCO, Kripco, Punjab Agro and other allied agencies as per the requirement of the farmers. The Punjab Government has been committed to providing seeds of progressive varieties of Wheat HD 2967, PVW 550, and PVW 621 to farmers at a subsidy of Rs. 700 per quintal, which is the highest rate of subsidy to be provided in comparison to neighbouring states like Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, U.P. and Jammu & Kashmir. The certified wheat seeds offered costed INR 1625 per quintal to the farmers of the state. He said that the seeds offered were of the highest quality and are expected to have a high yielding capacity and are compatible with the Punjab soil. INR 32 Crore subsidy was allocated for wheat seed distribution and the same has been achieved in a transparent manner. Over 2.5 lac farmers of the state have availed the subsidy and benefited from the government scheme. He also said that the provision was made under the National Food Security Mission and Rashtriya Krishi Vigyan Yojna. With the provisions and welfare schemes introduced by the Punjab Government for the farmers, the yield and production of the wheat crop is expected to surpass that of the previous years and benefit farmers state-wide. In addition to subsidies and loans being provided to farmers, additional services are being provided such as counselling helplines, training programs and awareness camps where farmers can educate themselves of new and emerging farming techniques and methods for production and pest control. - DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE BATHINDA NEW SHAKTI NAGAR ENCROACHMENTS’ REMOVAL: STATE GOVT GIFTS LAND TO DISPLACED 51 FAMILIES Bathinda, Dec 9 Extending a helping hand to the 51 families, who were displaced from hutments of New Shakti Nagar as a part of anti-encroachment campaign, the state government has given them free land to re-locate on. Giving information in this context the commissioner Municipal Corporation Bathinda Mr Dalwinderjit Singh said that to ensure proper settlement of the displaced families the MP Bathinda and Union Cabinet Minister Mrs Harsimrat Kaur Badal was in constant touch with the Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr Sarup Chand Singla and the deputy commissioner Bathinda Dr Basant Garg. He added that due to consistent efforts of Mrs Badal, the displaced families have found new home with the help of donor Bhushan Kumar Dhunnike who donated 1783 square yards (one bigha and 15 biswa) of land in Kheta Singh Basti. The commissioner said that the displaced families would be allocated this donated land. He added that the families can now live snugly in their own homes. The commissioners expressed gratitude to Dhunnike for providing shelter to the 51 families. He added that the MCB today held meeting with the representatives of these families assuring them to inhabit the place without any hesitation. -- SURESH KUMAR AND JAGPAL SINGH SANDHU DESIGNATED AS ADDITIONAL CS Chandigarh, December 8- The Punjab government today designated two senior IAS officers of 1983 batch Mr. Suresh Kumar and Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu as Additional Chief Secretary of the state. Disclosing this here a today spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file to this effect, today evening. As per the orders Mr. Suresh Kumar and Mr. Jagpal Singh Sandhu, who were already working in the pay scale of Chief Secretary have now been designated as Additional Chief Secretary of the state. - SEVEN IAS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED Chandigarh, December 8- The Punjab Government today issued the transfer/ posting orders of the seven IAS officers including two Deputy Commissioners (DC) of the state. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that a file to this effect was cleared by Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, this evening. The list of the IAS officers who have been transferred/ posted is as follows-
The spokesperson further said that the posting orders of IAS officers Mr. Mandeep Singh, Mr. Parveen Thind and Mr. Arun Sekhri would be issued later. The additional charge of MD TRANSCO has been given to Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tiwari and that of SDM Dhar Kalan to SDM Pathankot. - ENSURE PAYMENT OF RETIRAL DUES TO EMPLOYEES ON THE DATE OF RETIREMENT : PUNJAB DIRECTS ALL DEPARTMENTS Chandigarh, December 8: The Punjab Government has issued strict direction to all departments to ensure to settle pension cases of its employees for disbursement of all the retiral benefits to them on the date of his/her retirement. According to communiqué issued to all department it has been reiterated that where disbursement on the date of retirement was not possible because of procedural formalities, these should be cleared within two months of date of retirement. Laying down the detailed procedure to meticulously follow the timeframe to be adhere by all controlling/ Drawing and Disbursing Officers, directions have been issued that pension case of each employee should be taken up at least one year before the impending retirement of the employee. He said that after the completion of all formalities the same may be sent to Accountant General, at least six months before the impending retirement of an employee along with complete record. If authorization of Accountant General is not received within a month, the matter may be taken up by head of office/department with AG to get the same to be expedited. The spokesperson said that as per the procedure if the case can not be completed because an enquiry is pending or service record is not complete or for any other reason, action should be initiated to fix the pension on provisional basis and simultaneously all efforts should be made to complete the formalities so that full pension, gratuity and other benefits can be released in time. The spokesperson said that if the case of pension and other retiral benefits gets delayed because of employee not providing/furnishing any documents, which are required to be furnished by him under the rules, six months before his retirement, a fortnightly reminder against proper acknowledgment should be issued to him and complete record of correspondence be maintained to ensure that employee can not complain at a later stage. He said that all assistance may be rendered if he is not able to complete any form etc. In case the employee still defaults Controlling Officer/ Drawing and Disbursing Officer may bring the matter to the notice of head of department. He said that if in spite of above precautions delay still occurs, a case for payment of interest at the specified rate may be taken up with the finance department stating the detailed facts of the case immediately after payment of retrial benefits has been made. Cautioning the department the spokesperson said that in case any litigation in such cases results from the default on the part of any departments and penal interest is awarded by a court along with costs etc., the Controlling Officer/Drawing and Disbursing Officer shall be personally liable for the loss caused and the amount shall be recovered from him. - PUNJAB NRI WING DISPOSE OF MORE THAN 85 PERCENT CASES IN STIPULATED TIME FRAME Receives 7992 complaints with maximum 1123 from Canada Registers 235 cases, Issuance of LOCs against 94 Set to rope in sociology and psychology experts Chandigarh, November 8: The NRI Wing of Punjab Police, the brainchild of Punjab Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has created a record of sorts by disposing of 85.61% of complaints within stipulated time, despite number of complaints registered getting doubled during the same time. Besides this, the arrest of 75 Proclaimed Offenders (POs) and issuance of Look out Circulars (LOCs) for 94 accused NRIs have been set to become big deterrent for any offence or crime against NRIs. Giving details regarding complaints received by the NRI Wing, Mrs. Gurpreet Deo, IGP/NRI Wing informed that till date the wing has received 7992 complaints, which were more than doubled (109%) than the last year’s figure of 3852 complaints. She said that steep increase in the complaint was due to intensive campaign launched by the NRI Police wing to come forward to lodge a complaint through website, email or personally generating a confidence amongst NRI regarding the sincerity of Punjab Police to tackle their complaints on priority basis. She informed that the complaints received from Canada (1123) were the highest followed by UK (763), USA (744), Australia (282) and Italy (219). Out of these 2245 complaints were received through e.mails. She revealed that while disposing of 6842 (85.61%) complaints, 235 cases have been registered under different sections of various acts. LOCs have been got issued against 94 accused to get them arrested immediately after landing on any Indian airport. Besides this, 75 POs have been arrested in different cases registered on the complaints of NRIs and 101 accused have been got declared as new POs. The photographs of NRI POs were also being uploaded on NRI Wing website i.e. www.nripunjabpolice.com, she added. While giving break up of complaints, the IGP/NRI disclosed that 2455 complaints were related to property disputes. After thorough investigation, 64 cases were registered and compromises were stroked in 422 cases resulting in benefit to the tune of Rs. 100 crore to the aggrieved parties. The NRI wing had also received 664 complaints regarding matrimonial issue and after investigation 73 cases were registered. Out of these, 41 cases were relating to those NRI bridegrooms who had deserted their Indian wives and in 15 cases Indian bridegrooms used their marriages with NRI girls just to secure the visas and eloped immediately after reaching their destinations. Remaining 17 cases were related to domestic violence in matrimonial cases. While sorting out around 100 cases regarding fraudulent marriages, financial assistance to the tune of Rs. 11.50 crore was ensured for girls. The IGP/NRI Wing further said that 2604 complaints were regarding the issues of financial/property dealings with their own family members, travel agents and property dealers. 36 cases were registered in these cases after thorough investigations. She pointed out that alternate dispute redressal mechanism was also being used in which community was roped in redressing the complaints of NRIs. Till date compromises or decisions were reached in 84 cases thorough this mechanism. She said that the NRI wing has also initiated the process to rope in experts of Sociology and Psychology from Punjab University, Chandigarh to redress complaints of NRIs regarding fraudulent marriages and other issues more diligently. Explaining about the functioning of NRI Wing, the IGP/NRI said that any NRI can submit his/her complaint at NRI Wing, Mohali, any NRI Police Station personally or through e.mail at nri.pbpolice@gmail.com, NRI Wing website i.e.www.nripunjabpolice.com or through post. The wing allots a case ID number to each complaint and the complainant can check its status through that number. After that an Inspector rank police officer analyses the complaint before sending it to concerned office or police station. In majority cases, 30 days were the stipulated time frame for redressing the complaint and the complainant was being informed through email. - Sukhbir Badal calls on Thawar Gehlot- urges to make Punjab part of ‘Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana’ (Demands release of Rs. 25.65 crore under SCSP) (National Institute of Sports for Disabled Persons to be setup at Zirakpur) Chandigarh/New Delhi, December 8 - Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today urged the centre to extend Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY) to Punjab as it has the highest proportion of scheduled casts (31.9 percent) vis a vis total population amongst all states which are included under the scheme. Calling on union minister for social justice and empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot at his office in the presence of state minister for social justice and empowerment Vijay Sampla here on Monday, Mr. Badal said despite fulfilling all policy rules under the scheme, Punjab had not benefitted as much as it could in terms of schemes concerning SCs. He stressed that villages having 50 percent or more SC population in the state could witness integrated development by receiving grants to the tune Rs. 100 crore under PMAGY. Emphasising to cover Punjab under this scheme as early as possible, Mr. Badal said NDA government had assured to include state but still final decision from the ministry was awaited. He said 5 states chosen by centre including Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu had less SC population as compared to Punjab. He said in Punjab more than 2800 villages had 50 percent or more SC population so state should not be kept out from the ambit of PMAGY. Union Ministers Gehlot and Vijay Sampla assured the Deputy CM that the matter would be resolved at the earliest and Punjab would be included under the PMAGY. Discussing the current status of Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCSP) for economic development of BPL families in the state, Mr. Badal apprised the union minister that Punjab had utilised Rs. 440.48 lakh and provided benefits to 7841 beneficiaries during the last fiscal. He said during the current year Rs. 68.58 lakh has been spent till September. Deputy CM also asked Gehlot and Sampla to expedite the release of Rs. 25.65 crore to enable implementation of action plan for the year 2014-15 under various schemes for SCs. He also discussed the issue of post-matric scholarship scheme for SC students seeking release of remaining grant to the tune of Rs. 229.54 crore out of total Rs. 440 crore for the ongoing session. Deputy Chief Minister also sought execution of scheme for implementation of the persons with disabilities act (SIPDA) to provide barrier free environment in government offices, educational institutions and other public visiting areas. Mr. Badal requested release of Rs. 5.88 crore under this scheme. Apprising the union minister about proposed setting up of National Institute of Sports for Disabled Persons, Mr. Badal offered 10 acres of land for this purpose at Zirakpur. He said proceedings for approval of project should be expedited besides constitution of site selection committee at the earliest. On the demands and issues of Punjab government, Gehlot and Sampla assured Mr. Badal said needful action would be taken soon to ensure inclusion of Punjab in PMAGY as well as disbursement of grants relating to other schemes. They also assured that post-matric scholarship scheme and SCSP grants to be considered on priority. Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Social Security and health minister Punjab Surjit Kumar Jiyani, union secretary social justice and empowerment Sudhir Bhargava, union secretary disability affairs Stuti Kacker, secretary sc/ bc welfare Seema Jain and secretary social security Jaspal Singh - DAUGHTERS ALSO ELIGIBLE FOR GRANT OF FAMILY PENSION Chandigarh, December 8: The Punjab Finance department has clarified to all head of departments, commissioners of division and deputy commissioner that the daughters are eligible for family pension as per the latest decision of Punjab and Haryana High Court The spokesperson clarified that the daughters , irrespective of their of marriage, up to the age of 25 and if she continues to be unmarried even after beyond 25 years shall be entitled for family pension subject to the usual condition that if she starts earning livelihood, the family pension shall be stopped . He further clarified that in the case daughter is suffering form disability which prevents her from earning a livelihood, she will continue to get family pension even after the age the 25 years, irrespective of her marriage. He said that the above provisions are subject to other conditions being fulfilled as per relevant rules for grant of family pension. The spokesperson said that the Punjab Government has amended the relevant provisions of Punjab Civil Service rules accordingly. - ALL DEPARTMENTS ASKED TO APPOINT CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICERS TO IDENTIFY CYBER SECURITY THREATS IN DEPARTMENTAL APPLICATIONS Chandigarh, December 8: The Punjab Government has issued instructions to all departments to immediately designate Chief Information Security Officers (CISO) with immediate effect and convey his name to the directorate of Governance Reforms. According to an official spokesperson National Critical Information Infrastructure protection centre (NCIIPC), Government of India, a National Nodal Agency in respect of critical information infrastructure has issued directions to all state governments to designate Chief Information Security Officers in all departments. The CISOs have been assigned the job of identifying critical information infrasrture and further conduct vulnerability /threat/risk analysis and applying cyber security controls to mitigate the same. All departments have been directed to send the name and designations of designated CSIOs. -----------
CHILD RIGHTS PROTECTION COMMISSION CHAIRMAN STRESSES ON COMPLIANCE OF SUPREME COURT GUIDELINES Chandigarh, December 8 : A meeting of the child rights protection commission, Punjab was held today at commission’s office at forest complex, sector-68, Mohali. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Sukesh Kaalia, Chairman. Stating this, a spokesperson of the commission said that during this meeting various issues regarding the welfare and protection of children were discussed. It was brought to the notice of the commission that the Supreme Court guidelines regarding the safety of children in school buses are not being adhered to. So, the commission issued directions to all the Deputy Commissioners and SSPs to make sure that the guidelines are strictly followed. The commission also noted with concern that the private schools are not following the provisions of right to education act. So, it was decided that the members of the commission along with other officials would conduct random checks at schools and submit the report to the commission. Besides this, the commission also heard the complaint against Sahibzada Ajit Singh Academy, Ropar but postponed the hearing to 16th December as inquiry record was not available. The commission also took stern notice of the death of a student at Jalandhar and summoned the school management on 16thDecember. Other issues like the burning of a minor girl at Ludhiana, molestation of a child by a tutor and making it’s video, the death of 6 children at Ludhiana , implication and beating up of a child in false case by a sub-inspector and taking suo-moto notice, asked the Deputy Commissioners of Ludhiana and Jalandhar to submit action taken report within 10 days. During the meeting, the Chairman made it clear that any violator of child rights will not be spared. During the meeting, senior officers like- Secretary Sumer Singh Gujjar I.A.S., Deputy Director Rajwinder Singh Gill and Sheila Devi, member were also present. - DRUG FREE KABADDI ONLY POSSIBLE DUE TO EFFORTS OF SAD-BJP GOVERNMENT: TOTA SINGH
DHUDIKE (MOGA), DECEMBER 8: Australia defeated Spain by 43-34 in the opening match of Fifth Kabaddi World Cup 2014 held in the jam packed grounds of Multipurpose Stadium, here today. Australian team maintained the lead since beginning and by half time their score was 20-18. For Australia, raiders Inderjit scored 9, Navpreet scored 10 and Taranpreet scored 10 points and stoppers Avtar Singh and Harwinder Singh scored two points each. Spanish Raiders Juan Espino scored 12 points, Santiago scored 7 and Samuel scored 8 points while stopper Christian scored two points. Women Section: India grounded USA by 56-15 In the second match of the day, Indian Women team thrashed USA by a big margin of 56-15. By Half time, the Indian team was leading by 27-06. Indian Raiders Priyanka, Sukhwinder Kaur, Ram Bateri and Sukhjinder Kaur scored seven points each while stoppers Anu Rani, Sarabjit and Jasvir scored 5, 4 and 3 points respectively. For USA team, Raiders Kate and Guramrit Kaur Khalsa scored four points each. Third Match: Iran outplays USA by 40-39 Iran emerged victorious in the third match of Day 2 of matches when they repeated history once again by defeating USA by 40-39. A match which saw several highs and lows, ended with a nail biting finish. The Iran team had defeated USA two years ago as well. By half time, the Iran team was leading by 24-19 but in the second half, USA covered the lead and at several times in the match, the score were tied. But it were the Iran team which won hearts of audience in the end and emerged victorious. Iran raiders Mohd Faraz and Atazdesh scored seven points each while stoppers Mojtada and Amir won three points each.From USA team, raiders Inderdeep Singh and Avtar Singh scored 10 points each and Baljit Singh scored 8 while stoppers Navpreet Johal and Donte scored 4 and 3 points respectively. Mr Barjinder Singh “Makhan” Brar, Chairman, Punjab health System Corporation, was the chief guest for the third match of the day. While addressing the gathering, Mr Tota Singh, Agriculture Minister, Punjab, who was the chief guest on the occasion said that it is due to the efforts of SAD-BJP government that the Kabaddi sport is making its presence felt on international scene. He also thanked CM Mr Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal for bringing this tiny hamlet of Dhudike on international sports scene. He said that it is only due to the efforts of SAD-BJP government that a "drug free" Kabaddi has been possible in the state. He said that dope tests of all players are being conducted by NADA in a laboratory being approved by WADA. Before reaching the ground, Mr Tota Singh also paid obeisance at the memorial constructed in the memory of Lala Lajpat Rai. Prominent among those present on the occasion included MLA's Rajwinder Kaur Bhagike and Mahesh Inder Singh Nihalsinghwala, Director (Sports) Mr Tajinder Singh Dhaliwal, DC Mr Parminder Singh Gill, SSP Mr Jatinder Singh Khaira, Senior Akali leader Mr Nirdharak Singh Brar, Eminent Writer Mr Jaswant Singh Kanwal, Mr Mohinder Singh Romana, besides several others - CM ENVISIONS ‘BLUE REVOLUTION’ IN STATE FOR TRANSFORMING DESTINY OF FARMERS STATE GOVERNMENT MAKING ALL OUT EFFORTS TO PROMOTE FISH FARMING IN PUNJAB VISITS 100 ACRE FISH FARM AT GIDDERBAHA Gidderbaha, December 8- Terming that the ‘Blue Revolution’ in the state could transform the destiny of the farmers, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that the SAD-BJP alliance government was making all out efforts for promoting fish farming in the state. Addressing the gathering after visiting 100 acres fish farm of a progressive farmer Mr. Jaspal Singh Kang here today, the Chief Minister said that Punjab had pioneered ‘Green Revolution’ in the country, which was instrumental in providing food security to the country. However, he said that with escalating input costs and squeezing margins of profit agriculture was no longer a profitable venture due to which the farmers of the state were on the brink of economic crisis. Mr. Badal said that in such a dismal scenario pisciculture was the only ray of hope for the farmers as they could supplement their income through it. The Chief Minister further said that in order to encourage fish farming in the state, the Punjab government has recently constituted Fisheries Board in the state. Likewise, he said that special thrust was being laid on imparting training to the fish farmers from reputed institutes both within the country and abroad. Citing the examples, Mr. Badal said that while the farmers were sent for getting training to Bhuvneshar another delegation of farmers visited China to acquaint themselves with the techniques of fish farming at both these places. The Chief Minister said that the state government was giving 40% subsidy for setting up fish farms in the state. Similarly, he said that now as a pilot project the state government was giving 90% subsidy on setting up 100 acres fish farm in water logged areas of the state to promote fish farming in these areas. Mr. Badal said that currently six villages have been selected under this scheme out of which four were in Sri Muktsar Sahib district and two in Fazilka district. The Chief Minister said that due to the stupendous efforts of the state government, Punjab was leading the country in fresh water fish productivity. However, he said that state government was aiming to increase this production manifolds as the fish farmers in China were getting a record production to 32-33 ton fish per hectare as compared to merely six ton per hectare in Punjab. Mr. Badal said that as there was a lot of scope to enhance this production, so the state government was wholeheartedly working towards this objective. On the occasion, the Chief Minister also had detailed deliberations with Mr. Jaspal Singh Kang, who apprised the former about the problems faced by them. The Chief Minister was accompanied by Chairman District Planning Committee Sri Muktsar Sahib Mr. Hardeep Singh Dimpi Dhillon and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Jaskiran Singh. - CM INAUGURATES 60TH NATIONAL SCHOOL GAMES UNDERSCORES NEED OF SPORTS FOR A HEALTHY LIFE Badal (Sri Muktsar Sahib), December 8- Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today inaugurated the 60th National School games here at Mata Jaswant Kaur Memorial School. About 1200 players from schools across the country were participating in this sporting extravaganza to be held tillDecember 13. The Chief Minister unfurled the flag of the national games and took the salute from an impressive march past of the players from the 28 states, who were led by the band of Mata Jaswant Kaur Memorial School. Basket ball player Ms. Lakshdeep Kaur administered the oath of sportsmanship to the players and a cultural program was also held on the occasion. In his address the Chief Minister exhorted the students to play these games with full sportsmanship. He said that selected students from the schools across the country were participating in this tournament adding that these students would serve the country in various capacities in the coming years. Underscoring the need of sports along with education, Mr. Badal said that only a healthy person could fulfill every responsibility in an apt manner. Earlier addressing the gathering, Education Minister Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that the state government had taken path breaking initiatives for promoting sports in the government schools adding that major thrust has been laid on the infra structure development of sports. He said that a special policy has been made for encouraging the students to join sports at a tender age, so that they could excel in sports later. Dr. Cheema said that due to the persistent efforts of the state government the mother game of Punjab- Kabbadi has got recognition across the world level. Later on interacting with the media persons, the Chief Minister said that the balance payment of paddy procurement would be soon issued to the farmers. Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included MLA Malout Mr. Harpreet Singh, Principal Secretary School Education C Raul, Chairman Mr. Tejinder Singh Middukhera and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Jaskiran Singh.
-- PM's meeting on restructuring of Planning Commission of India with CMs
· ADVOCATES DRASTIC RECAST OF THE CONSTITUTION FOR AUTONOMY TO STATES · SAYS CENTRE SHOULD RETAIN ONLY KEY SUBJECTS OF NATIONAL CONCERN · DEMANDS 50% SHARE OF TAXES FOR STATES · SEEKS BASIC AMENITIES FOR PEOPLE RATHER DIVERTING PRECIOUS RESOURCES ON CAPITAL INTENSIVE PROJECTS OF BULLET TRAINS · REQUESTS PM TO IMMEDIATELY BAIL OUT DEBT STRESSED STATES OF PUNJAB, KERALA AND WEST BENGAL · DEMAND SIMILAR INDUSTRIAL INCENTIVES FOR PUNJAB AS EXTENDED TO NEIGHBOURING STATES New Delhi, December 7 Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called for drastic recast of the constitution to give the country a genuinely federal structure, with the centre having exclusive jurisdiction on subjects of national concerns, such as Defence, External Affairs, Currency, Railways and Communications and a few others. “Federalism is the only way to ensure speedy development to make India a true economic superpower and a world leader. States are like limbs of the country’s body politic. Strong limbs mean a strong body. Strong states mean a strong India. Upto now, there has been a confusion between a strong India and a strong centre. We stand for a strong and genuinely federal India,” said Mr Badal. The Chief Minster said that the formula for distribution of resources between the centre and the states needs to be drastically reversed. The states must get a 50% share out of the central taxes and non-tax revenue, instead of the present 32% and these funds should be given in an untied manner, without prior conditionalities. The distribution among states also should be based on a At present, the share of untied grants to states constituted Likewise, Mr. Badal underscored the need for a formula to give weightage to share of the scheduled caste population in a state, locational disadvantage such as live international border and contribution to National food security etc. Taking part in meeting chaired by the Prime Minister on the need to replace the Planning Commission with a new mechanism in tune with the federal principle, the Chief Minister welcomed the proposed Council of Chief Ministers headed by the Prime Minister to replace PCI for making the goal of cooperative federalism a reality. The Chief Minister termed this conference as historic for the country as henceforth the planning for the growth of this country would undergo drastic change with states having more say in the development of the states and the country. He said in the last 67 years of Independence the development process had become unitary in nature. Mr. Badal said that the Shiromani Akali Dal was the first party in the country to advocate a federal structure for the country and for decentralising authority and planning process. Now the entire country is advocating what we did. We welcome the initiative of the Prime Minister on making the planning process truly federal, with greater fiscal and planning autonomy to states,” said Mr. Badal. The Chief Minister also strongly advocated the need for Mr. Badal said that the PCI which was superimposed on the Mr. Badal suggested the proposed council to be named as The Chief Minister also opined that an Executive Body comprising advisors, experts and specialists should be put in place to assist the Council. Keeping in view the federal structure, the members of the Executive Body should be drawn from the states. Mr. Badal also suggested for the establishment of Regional Councils consisting of the Chief Ministers of similarly placed states and chaired by the PM to converge and speed up the process of development. Likewise, the State Planning Board should also be restructured to bring them in tune with changed socio-economic environment. Besides these, the Prime Minister should hold meetings with the Chief Minister of each state once in a quarter to resolve many burning issues. Mr. Badal said that the NSDC should meet at least twice a year to deal with issues like the Indian economy, flagship programmes of the Union Government, human resource development, poverty alleviation, energy and environment. Similarly, the Regional Councils should meet bi-annually for strengthening economic and social development in the region. He said that although Punjab was in favour of continuation of five year plan cycle at the national level, but it wanted States to have autonomy for preparation of annual plans. In a significant suggestion, he advocated doing away with the prevalent system of seeking approval from the Centre for their annual plans. He demanded the Five year Plan to be formulated in the background of perspective or long term plan, laying down the foundations of the future vision of the economy. On setting up of innovation and knowledge hub/think tank, the Chief Minister said that the public policies should be formulated on the basis of thorough research by think tanks for which the state level research institutes and universities should be included in these think tanks vis-a-vis states should also establish such think tanks. Similarly, even on state subjects, the centre had slowly acquired authority not only to legislate but even to control all the funds. He emphasized that though Agriculture was a state subject but all the key decision regarding the costs of inputs and outputs i.e. prices of agricultural produce were taken by the centre without taking state governments in confidence. Now even education has been monopolized by the centre. He also stressed that the country needs to focus on providing basic amenities like drinking water, toilets, quality education etc. instead of diverting precious resources on capital intensive projects like bullet trains. The Chief Minister also requested the Prime Minister to take immediate action to help the three debt stressed states of Punjab, Kerala and West Bengal without any further delay. He also stressed that Industrial incentives given to some adjoining states must be extended to Punjab. Emphasizing the need for restructuring the Finance Commission, Mr. Badal pointed out that this platform should have given due attention to this vital issue by making a part of its agenda and even suggested that the terms and reference of every Finance Commission should be discussed in the proposed Council in order to harmonize the Finance Commission with it to have far more better and effective coordination. The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu ----------------- Students to get scholarships online into bank accounts-Sukhbir Badal (All pensions and shaguns to be dispensed with online) (Beneficiaries to fill application forms online to get financial help) Chandigarh December 7 – In a bid to bring transparency and efficiency in disbursement of all types of pensions, shaguns and scholarships, the Punjab Government has decided to transfer all financial aids online into the bank accounts of beneficiaries from the next financial year. Besides, giving a big relief to beneficiaries, it was also decided that all forms submitted online by the beneficiaries with self-certification counter-signed by concerned authorized representatives, will be accepted by the departments. Taking this fundamental decision Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal asked the finance, planning, social security, welfare and education departments to prepare dynamic web portals separately by January to facilitate them to upload requisite applications for getting financial help from concerned departments. "Application forms for availing all types of pensions and shaguns will be submitted online at Suwidha Kendras and Sewa Kendras whereas heads of educational institutes have been made responsible to submit necessary data of their beneficiary students for availing scholarships", added Mr Badal. Presiding over a review meeting regarding disbursements of pensions, shoguns, SC students and minority scholarships held here today, Deputy Chief Minister directed the social security, welfare, medical, technical, schools and higher education departments to initiate awareness campaign jointly in the state during January to provide opportunity for availing benefit of all welfare schemes to the beneficiaries. Contemplating to retain the students in state institutions, Mr Badal asked the concerned departments to cover all government schools, colleges, ITIs including engineering, polytechnics, medical and para-medical institutes for provisioning of pre-matric, post-matric SC students and minority scholarships. He also directed to open savings bank accounts of all students beginning from class one to higher institutes so that different scholarships could be dispensed with online directly into their accounts without any wait. He also directed that self-certification of application form attested by the concerned sarpanch/panch/namberdar/councilor/mayor or institution head would be used by the departments for approval of old age, widow and disability pensions, shaguns under Ashirwad scheme including minority and SC students scholarship cases under all types of welfare schemes. To verify beneficiaries' data, Mr Badal asked that external audit teams would check authenticity randomly for verification of availing benefits. To check unreasonable impediments in disbursements Deputy CM directed the finance department to sanction payments of all pensions, scholarships and shaguns without any delay. Mrs Seema Jain informed the Deputy CM that state has forwarded case of 5,29,166 minority students under pre-matric scholarship scheme to get scholarships to the tune of Rs 141.38 crore form the center and union government has released first installment of Rs. 43.86 crore which would be distributed shortly. Adding she said that final proposal has also been sent during last month to get remaining grant. Besides, Rs. 88.77 crore has been disbursed to 55,892 students under post-matric scholarship scheme during this fiscal. She also informed that total 71,880 SC students have applied online for scholarships during current academic year and welfare department has extended the deadline further to give opportunity to those who could not apply for the scheme due the late admissions in some institutions. Mrs Jain assured that all cases would be submitted after proper verification to the finance department for distribution of scholarships. Among others present on the occasion included Principal Secretary Education Mr C. Roul, Secretary SC/BC Welfare Mrs Seema Jain, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM Mr PS Aujla, Secretary Social Security Jaspal Singh, Special Secretary Higher Education Mr Chander Gaind, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM Mr Rahul Tiwari, Mr Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr Ajay Mahajan. ---------------
FIFTH KABADDI WORLD CUP-2014
· THREE MATCHES TO BE PLAYED AT DHUDDIKE TOMORROW
*FIRST MATCH OF MEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN AUSTRALIA AND SPAIN *SECOND MATCH OF WOMEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN INDIA AND USA *THIRD MATCH OF MEN SECTION TO BE PLAYED BETWEEN IRAN AND USA *AGRICULTURE MINISTER MR TOTA SINGH TO BE CHIEF GUEST
DHUDDIKE (MOGA)/CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 7: Bringing tiny historical hamlet Dhuddike on World Sports Map, the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP government will be organising three matches here tomorrow. Paying a tribute to freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai on his motherland, three matches of Fifth Kabaddi World Cup 2014 would be played at historical Dhuddike village tomorrow, i.e. December 7, 2014. Out of these two matches would be of Men section while one of Women section. State Agriculture Minister Mr Tota Singh would be the chief guest of these matches. This would be the second time after 2011 that Dhuddike would be hosting Kabaddi World Cup matches. At that time Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev had visited the ground and conducted a raid against the England Kabaddi team. The first match of Men section would be played between Pool "A" would be played between Australia and Spain, while the second match would be played between pool "A" of the women section between India and USA and the third match between of men section Pool "A" teams between Iran and USA. Eminent Punjabi singer Mr Ravinder Grewal would enthral the audience during the matches. ------------- PLSA SETTLES 3,26,348 CASES IN NATIONAL LOK ADALAT CHANDIGARH: DECEMBER 7, Under the able guidance of Mr. Justice T.S. Thakur, Judge, Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairman, National Legal Services Authority and under the Leadership of Mr. Justice S.S. Saron, Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court and Executive Chairman, Punjab Legal Services Authority, National Lok Adalat was organized yesterday in the state and total 3,26,348 cases were settled and a sum of Rs. 6,11,00,17,765 had been awarded and settled in the disposed of cases. A spokesperson of Punjab Legal Services Authority (PLSA) today said that a total number of 696 Benches were formed in Punjab. He said that 4,12,581 cases were referred in the National Lok Adalat out of which 3,26,348 cases were settled and a sum of Rs. 6,11,00,17,765 had been awarded and settled in the disposed of cases. Prior to this, a total of 15,70,319 cases had been settled in 8544 Lok Adalats and a sum of Rs. 43,44,24,25,423 had been awarded/settled. He further said that in this Lok Adalat various types of cases were taken up for their amicable settlement, which included Criminal Compoundable Cases, Negotiable Instrument Act cases u/s138, Motor Accident Claim Tribunal cases, Matrimonial/family courts cases, Labour disputes, Civil cases, Rent, Bank recovery, Tribunal cases, Revenue cases, MNREGA, Electricity And Water Bills (excluding theft cases), Tax matters, Salary, Allowances and Retirement benefits, Forest Act cases, Cantonment Boards maters, Railway Claims, Cases pending in the High Court, Pre-litigation matters. He said that apart from Judicial Courts, Quasi Judicial Bodies including the Revenue, Taxation and Cooperative Departments also participated for disposing of the cases in the National Lok Adalat. “After the disposal of a case in the Lok Adalat no appeal can be filed and the litigation is finished forever. If the Court Fee is paid at the time of filing of the case the same is refunded to the party after the settlement of the case in the Lok Adalat” he said. The spokesperson said that apart from the National Lok adalat, Lok Adalat is held on the last working Saturday of the month in the entire State of Punjab. He appealed people to take benefit by getting their cases disposed of amicably in the Lok Adalats and people can contact on Toll Free No. 1968 or can contact the Secretary, District Legal Services Authority in their District. -- DAZZLING START FOR THE FIFTH WORLD KABBADI CUP · CM AND DEPUTY CM INAUGURATES ONE OF THE BIGGEST SPORTS EXTRAVAGANZA OF THE COUNTRY · PUNJAB’S SPORTS POLICY AIMED AT GIVING MAJOR FILLIP TO SPORTING ACTIVITY IN THE STATE- CM · PATS DEPUTY CM FOR TRANSFORMING KABBADI TO A GLOBAL GAME FROM RURAL ONE · INDIAN CONTINGENT FOR RIO OLYMPICS TO HAVE MAXIMUM ATHLETES FROM PUNJAB-SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL · KABADDI TO BE PART OF OLYMPICS GAMES Jalandhar, December 6- One of the biggest sporting extravaganzas of the country, the fifth World Cup Kabbadi today began with a great pomp and show as the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, inaugurated this mega sporting event here at Guru Gobind Singh Stadium. The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister after unfurling the Kabaddi flag, took salute from the impressive march past of the captains of the participating teams, which was led by the mascot of tournament ‘Jaanbaaz’. The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister also had interaction with the captains of the participating teams on the dais. Announcing the opening of this fortnight long much awaited gala sporting event, the Chief Minister said that in this mega event 11 teams in men section and eight teams in the women section would vie for the title. Pertinently 11 teams including India, Pakistan, Argentina, United States of America, England, Canada, Australia, Iran, Denmark, Spain and Sweden would vie for men title whereas in Women section eight teams including that of Ajerbaijan, Pakistan, Mexico, New Zealand, United States of America, England, Denmark and India would clash for the title. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the state government has been making all out efforts for promoting sports across the state to channelize the unbounded energy of youth in a positive manner. He said that the new sports policy of the state government was a right step towards this direction as it stipulates jobs along with monetary benefits for the players of the state. Mr. Badal said that this sports policy would give a major fillip to the sporting activity in the state adding that due to persistent efforts of the state government the sports persons of the state would bring laurels for the country. Congratulating Deputy Chief Minister for organizing this world cup for the fifth consecutive term, the Chief Minister said that Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal deserves kudos for transforming the mother game of Punjab-kabaddi from a rural sport to a global event. He said that it was a matter of great pride for them that this game was now equally popular in nations across the globe, a glaring example of which was the presence of a number of foreign teams in the tournament. Mr. Badal said that due to the stupendous efforts of the state government the game has already became famous even in those countries, which had not even heard about it. The Chief Minister also said that the day was not far away when this game would also be included in Olympics as the Deputy Chief Minister and the state government were making persistent efforts for it. Likewise, he said that the state government was also duty bound to preserve the rich legacy of Hockey, which was also our mother game. Listing the efforts made by the state government for promoting sports in the state, Mr. Badal said that state government was leaving no stone unturned to popularize games in Punjab. Mr. Badal said that eminent sportspersons, who have brought laurels for the state were being given government jobs adding that many players who have won medals in different international sports have been appointed DSPs. The Chief Minister also said in another path breaking initiative from this year the state government has decided to not only confine this mega event only to the big cities. He said that for the first time this event would be held in the rural stadia’s like that of Gurdaspur, Dhudike (Moga), Roopnagar, Khanna (Ludhiana), Chohla Sahib (Tarntaran), Sultanpur Lodhi (Kapurthala), Hoshiarpur, Nabha (Patiala), Jalalabad (Fazilka) and Mehta (Amritsar), Dhirba and Badal so as to popularize this mother game of Punjab in every nook and corner of the state. Earlier addressing the audience, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that SAD-BJP government was working on an aggressive campaign to produce maximum number of trained sportspersons and to have more Punjabi players in the Indian contingent for Rio Olympics. He asserted that Punjab government’s mission to promote mother game of Punjab, Kabaddi, yielding its fruitful results. He said that successful organizations of 4 editions of World Cup Kabbadi has encouraged the organization of World Kabbadi leagues at national and international level which increased its fans and followers across the boundaries. Adding he said that it could easily be judged from the fact that Kabbadi teams from countries like Sweden and Azerbaijan were participating in this event for the first time. He expressed confidence that 5th World Cup Kabbadi would put this game to another higher orbit of glory and Punjab would realize its endeavour to include Kabbadi in Olympics. Highlighting the initiatives taken by Punjab government for creating sports friendly environment in the state, Mr. Badal said that government had already set up Punjab Institute of Sports at SAS Nagar having special directorates for 11 different sports disciplines. He said this first of its kind sports institute would work on the policy of ‘catch them young’ to provide the budding players a nursery to flourish their talent. Deputy Chief Minister informed that at Punjab Institute of sports world class coaching, psychologists, diet, training and equipments would be provided free of cost to young sportspersons. He stressed that Punjab has abundant sports talent and Punjab government would not left any stone unturned to enable the players to participate and win Olympic medals for India. The star attraction of the tournament and leading actress of bollywood Ms. Sonakshi Sinha mesmerized the audience with her dazzling performance. Likewise, star of tinsel world Mr. Arjun Kapoor also regaled the audiences with their superb performances. Leading Punjabi singers Mr. Sharry Maan and Harshdeep entertained the audience. On the occasion Russian Girls Fire Act added to zing of the event. Earlier, Olympian Mr. Palwinder Cheema brought the baton of games and Olympian Mr. Balbir Singh (senior) triggered of games flame from the stage. On the occasion the impressive video show depicting the overall development of the state accompanied by the traditional dance ‘Bhangra’ enthralled the audience and forced them to tap their feet. Likewise the gathering also cheered the highlights of the previous world Cup Kabaddi tournaments shown in the stadium. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Jathedar Ajit Singh Kohar, Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Rajya Sabha MPs Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Media Advisor to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Jangveer Singh, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries Mr. Pawan Kumar Teenu, Mr. Avinash Chander and Mr. KD Bhandari, MLAs Mr. Manoranjan Kalia, Mr. Pargat Singh, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Mr. Gurpartap Singh Wadala, , Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Secretary Sports Mr. Ashok Gupta. ------------ KABBADI WORLD IS EXPANDING WITH EVERY WORLD CUP KABBADI Jalandhar, December 6 As is famous for Punjabis that Punjabis and potato are everywhere, the world of Kabbadi is also expanding with every edition of World Cup Kabbaddi. This gala event has witnessed addition of new countries in its list of participating nations and players of these countries are also non Punjabis. Maintaining its record, the 5th World Cup Kabbadi has also witnessed the addition of Azerbaijan and Sweden to its list. This time 19 teams are representing the 14 nations and 5 continents. These includes India, Pakistan and Iran from Asia, America and Canada from North America, Mexico from South America, Australia and New Zealand from Australia and England, Sweden, Norway, Italy and Denmark from Europe. The credit of promoting game at international level by organizing World Cup Kabbadi goes to Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal who also encouraged other Kabbadi playing nations like Pakistan and Canada to send their coaches to rest of world to train their Kabbadi teams. It was Punjab government’s initiatives that encouraged the countries like Spain, Denmark, Argentina, Sweden, Norway, Mexico, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan etc to participate in the World Kabbadi Cup with most of non Punjabi Kabbadi players. The successful organization of 4 editions of World Cup Kabbadi also act as catalyst and encourages organization of Kabbadi leagues at national and international level that further enlarged the circle of fan followers of Circle style Kabbadi. O/o Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab
Sukhbir Badal asks DGP to take strict action against posting of derogatory remarks on social media
· Pays floral tributes to Bharat Ratan Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on his 58th Pre Nirvan Divas · Invites industrialists, traders to come with detailed representation for solution of issues within 10 days · Says Rs. 2500 crore to be spent on Industrial Capital's overall development in two years Chandigarh/Ludhiana, December 6: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today announced that strict action besides registration of criminal cases would be adopted against those, who posts or uploads derogatory remarks or distorted material against religious personalities under the provisions of IT Act and Cyber laws. Mr. Badal, who is also the Home Minister of the state, said posting of objectionable material and distorted pictures about any religion or religious personalities on social networking websites would not be tolerated at any cost and the wrongdoers would be dealt strictly. He said he has directed DGP Punjab to ensure implementation directions at ground while Commissioners of Police and SSPs would take instant action in such cases. He stated this here after paying floral tribute to father of Indian Constitution Bharat Ratan Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to mark his 58th Pre Nirvan Divas (death anniversary) during a state level function here at Guru Nanak Bhawan In his address, Mr. Badal said SAD-BJP government is committed for the all round development and welfare of deprived classes as envisioned by Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar. He said Punjab CM Mr. Parkash Singh Badal was contemplating to setup a world class educational institute dedicated to Dr. Ambedkar. The Deputy CM also announced that the construction work for Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's memorial on Ludhiana-Delhi National Highway has begun and it would witness state-of-the-art ambience along with a statue of Baba Saheb. Asking to work in education sector, a mission of Dr. Ambedkar, Mr. Badal also gave a call to leaders of SC community to dispense awareness amongst masses regarding Ashirwad, SC scholarship and other educational schemes for needy students so they could make their future bright by securing free of cost higher education. He said more than 9 lakh students have got advantage from these schemes in last year as government was sanctioned Rs. 500 crore for this purpose. Mr. Badal also informed the jam-packed Guru Nanak Bhawan that Punjab Government has enhanced the proposed budget of Rs. 150 crore for building up famous Bhagwan Valmiki Shrine at Amritsar Ram Tirath to Rs. 250 crore. Meanwhile meeting a high level delegation of industrialists and traders, Mr. Badal patiently heard their grievances and issues pertaining to Punjab government. Mr. Badal asked the delegation to submit their detailed and complete charter of demands by December 10 to him. He said all the issues would be sorted out within 10 days besides making trading and business further easier in the state. He said Punjab has become the first state to abolish archaic 'inspector raaj' by launching traders/investors friendly schemes. Describing his plan to develop Ludhiana one of the most developed city in the country, Mr. Badal said Rs. 2500 crore has been set aside to provide complete cover of sewerage, potable waters, well constructed roads and internal streets. He said in next two years Ludhiana would witness massive transformation with complete facelift of city. Mr. Ashwani Sahota, National Supreme Director of Bhartiya Valmiki Dharam Samaj, Mr. Vijay Manav, National Director, Mr. Raj Kumar Sahota, National Propaganda Secretary, Mr. Shiv Soni, National Advisor along with other office bearers handed over a charter of demands to Deputy CM. Mr. Badal also released a calendar and booklet presented by BHAVADAS office bearers. Meanwhile Deputy CM also presided over Pre Nirvan Divas of Dr. Ambedkar at Domoria Pul organised by Mr. Vijay Danav, President Punjab Dalit Vikas Board and Mr. Laxman Dravid. He also visited the residence of Mr. Madan Lal Bagga, District President Shiromani Akali Dal. Prominent amongst those accompanied Mr. Badal included Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Irrigation Minister, Mr. Manpreet Singh Ayali, Mr. Ranjit Singh Dhillon, both MLAs, Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal, Advisor to CM, Mr. H.S. Gohalwaria, Mayor, Former MP Mr. Amrik Singh Aliwal etc. - SUKHBIR PAYS OBEISANCE AT SHANI MANDIR Phillaur, December 6: Punjab Deputy CM Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today paid obeisance at Shani Mandir near Phillaur, near here. Accompanied by senior Akali Dal leaders, the Deputy CM reached the Shani Mandir premises and sought blessings from Param Poojya Shoonya Shri Prabhu Ji Maharaj, founder of Shani Mandir. He also paid obeisance at the Shani Temple and interacted with Param Poojya Shoonya Shri Prabhu Ji Maharaj, who gave him brief history about the Mandir. Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Mr Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, Advisor to CM Mr Maheshinder Singh Grewal, Mayor Mr Harcharan Singh Gohalwaria, MLA's Mr Ranjit Singh Dhillon and Mr Darshan Singh Shivalik, SAD district president Mr Madan Lal Bagga, Deputy Commissioner Mr Rajat Agarwal, Police Commissioner Mr. Promod Ban, MC Commissioner Mr Pradeep Agarwal, SDM Mr Kuljit Pal Singh Mahi, besides several others. - MARKET COMMITTEES OF BATALA, DINANAGAR, FATEHGARH CHURIAN, GURDASPUR, KAHNUWAN, QADIAN AND SRI HARGOBINDPUR GET NEW CHAIRMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS CM GIVES NOD FOR THESE NOMINATIONS Chandigarh, December 6- The Punjab Government today nominated new Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members in the market committees of Batala, Dinanagar, Fatehgarh Churian, Gurdaspur, Kahnuwan, Qadian and Sri Hargobindpur in Gurdaspur district. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this effect today morning and the formal orders regarding the nomination of the Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members of market Committees of Batala, Dinanagar, Fatehgarh Churian, Gurdaspur, Kahnuwan, Qadian and Sri Hargobindpur would be issued shortly. As per the orders Mr. Gurbachan Singh and Mr. Tarlok Chand have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Batala Market Committee whereas Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Ajit Singh, Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Mr. Baljinder Singh, Mr. Avtar Singh, Mr. Amritpal Singh, Mr. Kulwinder Singh, Mr. Jujhar Singh, Mrs. Surinder Kaur, Mr. Navdeep Singh, Mr. Karamjeet Singh, Mr. Amrik Singh, Mr. Baljinder Singh and Mr. Sukhdev Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Vijay Sharma and Mr. Gian Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Dina Nagar Market Committee whereas Mr. Bikram Singh, Mrs. Parkash Kaur, Mr. Janak Singh, Mr. Dyaal Singh, Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Mrs. Parveen Kumari, Mr. Puran Singh, Mr. Kulwinder Singh, Mr. Sham Singh and Mr. Jodh Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Similarly, Mr. Bakshish Singh Randhawa and Mr. Inderjeet Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Fatehgarh Churian Market Committee whereas Mr. Kashmir Singh, Mr. Sharanjeet Singh, Mr. Prem Singh, Mr. Dheer Singh, Mrs. Harjeet Kaur, Mr. Tilak Raj, Mr. Ashok Kumar Paadhi, Mr. Manjit Singh, Mr. Niyamat Massih and Mr. Kuldeep Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. For Gurdaspur Market Committee, Mr. Ashok Kumar and Mr. Babu Ram have been nominated as Chairman and Vice Chairman whereas Mr. Karnail Singh, Mr. Joginder Singh, Mr. Jaswinder Singh, Mr. Jagir Singh, Mr. Subash Chander, Mr. Kartar Singh, Mrs. Mohinder Kaur, Mr. Swaran Singh, Mr. Ajit Massih, Mr. Tarsem Singh, Mr. Bhagwan Singh, Mr. Baldev Singh, Mr. Kuldeep Singh and Mr. Shital Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Chenchal Singh and Mr. Kulwant Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Kahnuwan Market Committee whereas Mr. Bikramjit Singh, Mr. Salaamat Massih, Mr. Joga Singh, Mr. Mehnga Singh, Subedaar Gurdev Singh, Mrs. Satinder Kaur, Mr. Sukhwinder Singh, Mr. Sukhdev Singh, Mr. Kirpal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh and Mr. Amarjeet Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Similarly, Mr. Rakesh Kumar and Mr. Gurdial Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Qadian Market Committee whereas Mr. Satnam Singh Sooch, Mr. Sarup Singh, Mr. Wassan Singh, Mr. Gurdeep Singh, Mrs. Kamlesh Kumari, Mr. Surinder Singh, Mr. Charan Dass Bhatia, Mr. Maninderjit Singh Bedi, Mr. Harbhajan Singh and Mr. Mehtab Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. For Sri Hargobindpur Market Committee, Mr. Kulwant Singh and Mr. Brijmohan Mappi have been nominated as Chairman and Vice Chairman whereas Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr. Gurpinder Singh, Mr. Karambir Singh, Mr. Palwinder Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr. Paramjit Singh, Mr. Narinder Singh, Mrs. Rajwant Kaur, Mr. Balbir Kumar, Mr. Avtar Singh, Mr. Kuldeep Singh, Mr. Paramjit Chopra, Mr. Darshan Singh and Mr. Manjit Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee.
PUNJAB STARTS MONTH LONG FREE VACCINATION PROGRAM TO PREVENT FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE: RANIKE · OPENS A HELPLINE AT 0181-2242335 AND 0172-2701556 Chandigarh, December 6: The Punjab Government today started month long programme to vaccinate domesticated animals to prevent outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease. The Government has issued instructions to provide free vaccination and appealed to the farmers to get their cattle vaccinated in the nearest veterinary hospitals. Disclosing this, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Animal Husbandry Minister said that the Department has launched a sustained and intensive drive throughout the state for mass vaccination of cattle and this campaign would continue in the month of December 2014. The Minister said that Punjab Government was fully alive to the necessity of checking the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease and therefore decided to fix accountability of erring employees in this case. He said that Foot & Mouth Disease vaccination has been brought in the ambit of Right to Service Act (RTS), where every aggrieved citizen has a right to complain to the authorities. He said that it has been mandated that employees must vaccinate the cattle within stipulated time and in the case of lapse as per the provision of RTS every farmers has a right to lodge a complaint with concerned SDM or respected Deputy Commissioners. Mr. Ranike said that Chief Minister has issued explicit instructions that the department has to control the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease using all its resources as it was a communicable disease that can spread quickly even without contact. He said that Animal Husbandry Department has issued advisory to all the farmers to get the cattle vaccinated at the earliest as loss of cattle due to the disease would hit the economy of farmers as they would not be able to export meat, milk and other milk products.
- ONE IPS AND 7 PPS OFFICERS TRANSFERRED CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 6: The Punjab Government has transferred one IPS and 7 PPS officers with immediate effect. Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state government said that Inderbir Singh IPS has been transferred and posted as SSP Batala. He further said that Manminder Singh PPS as AIG/PAP-2 Jalandhar, Manjit Singh as Commandant 6th IRB Ladha Kothi Sangrur w.e.f 1.1.2015, Des Raj as SP (city) Bathinda, Kuldip Sharma as SP/Investigation Bathinda, Harinderjit Singh as ADCP/Industrial Security, Ludhiana, Mukhwinder Singh as SP/Investigation Ludhiana Rural and Harkamalpreet Singh has been posted as SP/Investigation Jalandhar Rural.
-- Sukhbir Badal appeals to Rajnath Singh to consider release of Sikh detainees languishing in jails outside Punjab Chandigarh, December 5 – Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today appealed to Union home minister Rajnath Singh to consider release of all Sikh detainees who are languishing in jails outside Punjab for the last 19 to 24 years. Disclosing this here today, the Deputy chief minister’s media advisor Jangveer Singh said the Deputy CM in his letter to Mr Rajnath Singh explained that the cases of the Sikh detainees pertained to a period when Punjab was in a state of turmoil. He said it was during this period that these detainees committed various acts for which they had been awarded life imprisonments and were lodged in jails in several States and as well as the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The Deputy CM in his letter said “I feel a time has come now to consider release of all Sikh detainees who have served prison terms of 20 years, including remissions, so that they can be released as per the premature release policies of various State governments and the Union territory of Chandigarh. Mr Badal said "some of these detainees are above 70 years of age and their case for release can also be considered on humanitarian grounds. This decision will also act as a psychological balm", he added. Giving details of the detainees languishing in jails outside Punjab, the Deputy CM said these included Gurmeet Singh, Shamsher Singh and Lakhwinder Singh, who were serving a prison sentence of 19 years and were presently lodged at the Burail jail in Chandigarh. He said others included Waryam Singh who was sentenced to life imprisonment under the TADA Act and is presently lodged at the Bareilly central jail. Waryam is in jail for the last 24 years and is now 70 years old. Similarly, he said, Gurdeep Singh Khaira, who is lodged at the Gulbarga jail in Karnataka, has spent 24 years in prison. Others include Subeg Singh who has served 15 years in prison at the Burail jail in Chandigarh, he added.EOM ----------------- SUKHBIR BADAL WRITES TO PM, DEMANDS NATIONAL MEMORIAL STATUS FOR RESIDENCE OF BABA SAHEB Chandigarh, December 5 Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today appealed the Prime Minister Mr. Narinder Modi to preserve residence of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar at 26 Alipur Road1, Delhi as National Memorial under an enactment of the Parliament Act equivalent to The Rajghat Samadhi Act, 1951. In a letter to Prime Minister, Mr. Badal said that he want to bring to the notice of Prime Minister that there was feeling among followers of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, architect of Indian Constitution that their esteem leader is being denied a memorial befitting his status. “As you would know Punjab has the largest population of Dalits in the country and there is a demand from this section that Babasaheb’s residence at at 26 Alipur Road1, Delhi should be converted into National Memorial”, he added. Lashing at Congress party for ignoring this matter of utmost importance for long, Mr. Badal said that the Ministry of Welfare (now Social Justice and Empowerment) had decided to acquire the property at 26 Alipur Road1, Delhi for setting up Dr. Ambedkar Memorial in October 1992 but nothing has been done on the ground to give an impression to the crores of followers of Babasaheb that the Centre government is serious about raising the status of building to that of a National memorial. “Now with the change if guard and formation of the NDA government which has always stood by the cause of Dalit Community I think time has come to give Babasaheb’s residence a status equivalent to the Rajghat Samadhi. As you would be aware that Bapu Mahatma Gandhi’s Samadhi has been given a special status under the Rajghat Samadhi Act, 1951”, said Mr. Badal. Mr. Badal further added that the Shiromani Akali Dal joins the people of Punjab as well as the country in demanding a special status for Babasaheb’s residence. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal was going to organize a function at this historic residence tomorrow on the occasion of Pre Nirvan Diwas. Our party Joint Secretary and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Punjab Mr. Pawan Tinu along with a number of party workers and followers of Dr. Ambedkar are reaching Delhi in large number to pay their tribute. ----------- NOW PUNJAB TO HIRE VEHICLES FOR OFFICERS CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 5: The Punjab Government has taken a policy decision for providing hired vehicles to officers as per their entitlement to increase touring and inspection of works in the field. According to an Official Spokesman of the Finance Department it has been estimated the Department of Transport that the cost of running a government vehicle was about Rs.74,000 per month whereas the cost for a private vehicle of a reasonable make is about Rs. 40,000 per month. In the light of austerity measures, the decision of the Finance Department will be a step forward to reduce avoidable expenditure of the government He said that for transparency in the system of hiring, the vehicles will be taken on rent from the open market by way of tendering process for which head of department will be the competent authority. With this system in place, there will be no shortage of vehicles in government offices and the general public will also benefitted with increased quality of work and provision of better services to them due to enhanced monitoring. He said that Finance Minister Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa has taken the decision with the approval of Hon'ble Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. ------------ PUNJAB ALLOTS NEW VEHICLES TO 13 FIRE STATIONS: ANIL JOSHI · 127 POSTS OF FIREMEN, LEADING FIREMEN AND DRIVERS BE FILLED SOON CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 5: The Punjab Government has allotted 13 new vehicles to the different fire stations located in different cities of the state. It was disclosed by Mr Anil Joshi, Minister for Local Government, Punjab. He said that the Government of India and Punjab Government has allotted funds to the department to provide vehicles/other gadgets pertaining to the fire service for older 17 districts. Mr. Joshi said that the department purchased 13 Tata-207 vehicles and these vehicles were allotted to Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Ferozpur, Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar, Faridkot, Sri Mukatsar Sahib, Sangrur, Abohar and Moga. He said that due to the congested roads and narrow streets of holy and historic city Amritrsar, small range Tata-207 has been allotted for this city. Similarly considering the demand of Abohar and abiding by the Hon’ble court orders another tata-207 has been stationed at Abohar. The Local Government Minister further said that the department has approved the case for the creation and recruitments on the 127 posts of firemen, leading firemen and drivers in Bathinda, Faridkot, Rampura Phul, Jalandhar, Khanna, Dearbassi , Mohali, Moga, Dasua and Gidderbaha. ------------ PUNJABI WEEK TO BE CULMINATED TOMORROW AT PATIALA · RAKHRA TO FELICITATED AWARD WINNING AUTHORS WITH THE CASH PRIZE AND PLAQUE CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 5: The ‘Punjabi Week’ celebrations would tomorrow December 6, 2014 be culminated at a gala function to be organised in Bhasha Bhawan, Patiala, Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Minister for Higher Education and Languages would be the chief guest, who would honour the award winning 10 authors with cash prize of Rs. 21,000 and plaque. Disclosing this here today Mr. Chetan Singh, Director, Language Department, Punjab said that Dr. Jaspal Singh, Vice Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala would preside over the function where as Mr. Amrinder Singh Bajaj, Mayor, Municipal Corporation, Patiala would be the guest of honour. Renowned writer Mr. Manmohan Singh Dhau would deliver keynote address. Divulging further detail, Mr. Chetan Singh said that in the poetry category Ms. Sarabjit Kaur Jass’s poetry book ‘Rahan Di Tapash’ has been chosen for Gurmukh Singh Musafir award. In the Story Writing category Mr. Krishan Kumar Rattu’s book ‘Sadak, Sansad Te Aadmi’ has been chosen for Principal Sujan Singh award, Similarly Mr. Iqbal Singh Ramowalia’s book ‘Sadde Saaj Di Sargam’ has been selected for Bhai Vir Singh award, Mr. Baldev Singh Dhaliwal’s book ‘Adhunik Punjabi Kaav Sandharvgat Adhiyan’ for Dr. Atar Singh award, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Madhpuri’s book ‘Lok Geetan Dian Kullan- Shagna De Geet’ for MS Randhawa award, Ms. Paramvir Kaur’s book ‘Zindgi Di Sajh Dajh’ for Gurbaksh Singh Preetlari award, Mr. Pawan Harchandpuri’s book ‘Panchiyan Di Panchayat’ for Sri Harkrishan award, In Urdu language Mr. Kudan Lal’s book ‘Kundan Pare’ for Sahir Ludhianvi award, Renu Behal’s book ‘ Badli Me Chupa Chand’ for Rajinder Singh Bedi award and Mr. Mahinder Partap Chand’s book ‘Nisha Te Kalap’ has been chosen for Mehmud Shirani award. --------------- SEKHON EXHORTS PEOPLE TO LIBERALLY DONATE FOR ARMEDFORCES FLAG DAY Chandigarh, December 5: Mr. Janmeja Singh Sekhon, Defence Services Welfare Minister today gave a call to the people of Punjab to come forward to donate liberally on Armed forces Flag Day for the welfare of our Jawans who are protecting the frontiers of our country. Addressing the people in a simple but impressive function organised on the occasion of Armed Forces Flag Day Mr. Sekhon said that Punjab is the sword arm of the nation that has given befitting reply to the aggressor enemy in 1962, 1971 and Kargil aggression and it becomes our bounded duty to do our bit for the welfare of those forces that guard our frontiers day and night so that we could sleep peacefully. He said that thousand of Jawans had laid down their lives in the most and inhospitable terrains and it was imperative for the every citizen of the country to extend their helping hand to our protectors. Earlier in the Armed Forces Flag Day Ceremony the flag was pinned on to the Minister by Mr. SR Ladhar, Secretary Defence Services and Brig JS Arora, Director Defence Services Welfare, Punjab along with staff of the Directorate. The Minister also stressed upon the significance of the Flag Day and urged the citizens to donate generously for the noble cause. “Punjab is the leading state in taking care of the Valiant Ex-servicemen and their widows.” said Mr. Sekhon. Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Defence Welfare Services was also present at the occasion. Brig JS Arora pinned the Armed flag on the CPS. It is pertinent to mention here that The Armed Forces Flag Day is celebrated all over India every year in order to collect the funds from the people all around the country for the wellbeing of the staff of the Indian Armed Forces. ---- Nirmal Singh appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Welfare of Backward Classes Commission Charan Dass taken as member on the BoDs of PBCLDFC CHANDIGARH DECEMBER 5:- The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the appointments of Mr. Nirmal Singh as the Vice Chairman of the Welfare of Backward Classes Commission and Mr. Charan Dass as member on the Board of Directors (BoDs) of the Punjab Backward Classes Land Development and Finance Corporation (PBCLDFC). Disclosing this here today a spokes person of the Chief Minister’s office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file to this effect this afternoon. The formal orders regarding these appointments would be issued shortly by the Welfare of SC/BC Department, added the spokesperson. ---------- WORLD KABBADI CUP 2014 SET TO FACINATES RURAL PUNJAB Chandigarh, December 5: 5th World Kabbadi Cup-2014 is set to fascinate kabbadi lovers of rural Punjab with most of the legue matches and thrilling final are being organised in the rural heartland of Punjab. Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and President, Punjab Kabaddi Association S. Sikandar Singh Maluka have transformed kabbadi as most popular game of world catching maximum eyeballs. According to Rural Development And Panchayat Minister Sikandar Singh Maluka Fifth World Cup Kabbadi to be held in Punjab from December 6 to 20 December and first time inauguration ceremony organised at Guru Gobind Singh Stadium as following closing ceremony and final match would be held at Badal village. Semi-Final match will set in Dirba village of sangrur and one match in Dudhike historical village of Moga and Mehta village of Majha.All these villages become the part of World kabbadi cup 2014 where matches would be held .As history has told itself kabbadi linked with rural punjab and Punjab Kabaddi Association seek to promote this long lasting rural background game among the punjabi youth that why Government will have organised these matches in villages . Further he said few years ago circle styled kabbadi was not famous as now, high profile arrangements of stadium, live telecast, high prize money has attracted and influenced the audience worldwide . Likewise cricket match between Pakistan v/s India, Kabbadi match of neighbouring country became mainstream of Kabbadi Cup. ----------- CM NOMINATES CHAIRMEN, VICE CHAIRMEN AND MEMBERS OF ABOHAR, FAZILKA, BHADSON AND NABHA MARKET COMMITTEES Chandigarh December 5- The Punjab Government today nominated the new Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members of Abohar and Fazilka market committees in Fazilka district and Bhadson and Nabha Market committees in Patiala district. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this effect, this morning and the formal orders regarding the nomination of the Chairman, Vice Chairman and members of market Committees Abohar and Fazilka in Fazilka district and Bhadson and Nabha Market committees in Patiala district, would be issued soon. As per the orders Mr. Krishan Nagpal has been nominated as the Chairman of Abohar Market Committee whereas Mr. Baljeet Jajhria, Mr. Dhanpat Siagh, Mr. Puran Chand Godar, Mr. Ranjit Bhaadu, Mr. Ram Singh, Mrs. Indu Bala, Mr. Vijay Kumar, Mr. Bhaala Ram, Mr. Chamkaur Singh, Mr. Rajinder Singh, Mr. Parmil Kaliyani, Mr. Sanjeev Setia, Mr. Subash Chander Arya, Mr. Jagmel Singh and Mr. Krishan Kumar besides the concerned BDPO would be its members. Likewise, Mr. Vinod Kumar has been nominated as the Chairman of Fazilka Market Committee whereas Mr. Kanwarsen, Mr. Varinder Kumar, Mr. Harnek Singh, Mr. Jaswant Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Avtar Singh, Mrs. Jaswinder Kaur, Mr. Harminder Singh, Mr. Tejwant Singh, Mr. Sunil Dutt Madan, Mr. Satpal, Mr. Vijay Chabra, Mr. Suman Kumar and Mr. Janak Raj besides the concerned BDPO would be its members. Similarly, Mr. Lakhvir Singh has been nominated as the Chairman of Bhadson Market Committee whereas Mr. Manjeet Singh, Mr. Palwinder Singh, Mr. Surinder Singh, Mr. Bhupinder Singh, Mr. Jaspreet Singh Jhabali, Mr. Rajinder Singh, Mr. Karamjeet Singh, Mr. Nirlep Singh, Mrs. Gurjeet Kaur, Mr. Tarsem Singh, Mr. Jorawar Singh, Mr. Prem Sagar, Mr. Randhir Singh and Mr. Gurbachan Singh besides the concerned BDPO would be its members. In the same manner, Similarly, Mr. Dharam Singh and Mr. Surinder Kumar Garg have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Nabha Market Committee whereas Mr. Harpal Singh, Mr. Harjinder Singh, Mr. Major Singh, Mr. Hardeep Singh, Mr. Swaran Singh, Mr. Sukhwinder Singh, Mr. Beer Singh Bhullar, Mr. Tehal Singh, Mrs. Harvinder Kaur, Mr. Ashok Bansal, Mr. Gurdial Inder Singh Billu, Mr. Sukhwinder Singh, Mr. Ganga Ram and Mr. Maal Singh besides the concerned BDPO would be its members. --------- PUNJAB DECIDES TO PUT THE PENDING ISSUES CONCERNING TO MEGA PROJECTS ON FAST TRACK · DECISION TAKEN IN THE SPECIAL MEETING OF SCREENING COMMITTEE PRESIDED OVER BY CHIEF SECRETARY CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 5: The Chief Secretary, Punjab late evening presided over a meeting of the Screening Committee for Mega Projects to discuss the pending mega project issues and policy matters. This meeting was attended by Mr. Kamal Oswal, Industrial Advisor to the Chief Minister, Punjab and many industrialists who have applied for setting up Mega Projects in the State. Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that during the meeting the Chief Secretary explained that the Government of Punjab is committed to ensure that Industrial Policy of the Government is implemented in the best interest of the Industry in the State. In today’s meeting numbers of issues which include fixation of conversion charges for the Change of Land Use from industrial to mixed land use for the multiplexes, charging of electricity duty from Textile industrial Mega Projects, clearances for expansion of some Mega projects were discussed. The Screening Committee cleared number of projects. The Chief Secretary instructed the concerned departments to give top priority to pending issues of Mega Projects. Secretary Housing & Urban Development, Secretary, Science & Technology, Secretary, Power and other senior functionaries of the Government were present in the meeting. The next meeting of the Screening Committee has been fixed after 2 weeks and it was decided that hence forth no delay on the part of the Government departments shall be tolerated as far as clearances of Mega projects are concerned. However, the Chief Secretary exhorted the industrialists to extend maximum cooperation to the officials of the concerned departments as far as providing of information and requisite documentation is concerned. ------- CM ORDERS PROBE INTO GHUMAN MEDICAL EYE CAMP TRAGEDY Chandigarh, December 5- Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today ordered a high level probe into the Ghuman Medical camp tragedy in the Gurdaspur district. Disclosing this here today Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains said that Mr. Badal has asked the Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan to personally conduct inquiry into all the aspects of this unfortunate incident. He has also directed Mrs. Mahajan to rush to the site of tragedy for an on spot assessment of the tragedy and for supervising and expediting relief to the victims and their families. Mr. Bains further said that the Chief Minister has also announced an interim relief of Rs one lakh to each of the affected families, whose members have lost eyesight in the tragedy. Announcing free medical treatment for all the victims of the tragedy, Mr. Badal has directed that all the patients should be re-examined for fresh treatment at the government level. --- PUNJAB STARTS MONTH LONG FREE VACCINATION PROGRAM TO PREVENT FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE: RANIKE · OPENS A HELPLINE AT 0181-2242335 AND 0172-2701556 Chandigarh, December 5: The Punjab Government today started month long programme to vaccinate domesticated animals to prevent outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease. The Government has issued instructions to provide free vaccination and appealed to the farmers to get their cattle vaccinated in the nearest veterinary hospitals. Disclosing this, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Animal Husbandry Minister said that the Department has launched a sustained and intensive drive throughout the state for mass vaccination of cattle and this campaign would continue in the month of December 2014. The Minister said that Punjab Government was fully alive to the necessity of checking the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease and therefore decided to fix accountability of erring employees in this case. He said that Foot & Mouth Disease vaccination has been brought in the ambit of Right to Service Act (RTS), where every aggrieved citizen has a right to complain to the authorities. He said that it has been mandated that employees must vaccinate the cattle within stipulated time and in the case of lapse as per the provision of RTS every farmers has a right to lodge a complaint with concerned SDM or respected Deputy Commissioners. Mr. Ranike said that Chief Minister has issued explicit instructions that the department has to control the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease using all its resources as it was a communicable disease that can spread quickly even without contact. He said that Animal Husbandry Department has issued advisory to all the farmers to get the cattle vaccinated at the earliest as loss of cattle due to the disease would hit the economy of farmers as they would not be able to export meat, milk and other milk products. - Punjab nominates 21 non official members of Sub Division Ferozepur Grievances Redressal Committee Chandigarh, December 05 Punjab Government has nominated non-official members of District Redressal Grievances Committee of Sub division Ferozpur of District Ferozepur. A notification has already been issued in this regard. Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Redressal of Grievances department said that 21 non official have been nominated from recognized political parties and communities of District Ferozepur. He said that amongst the nominated non official members were master Gurnam Singh from SAD (B); Sh. Baldev Krishen Chopra from BJP; Sh. Gulshan Rai Moga from INC Party; Comrade Mohinder Singh from Bhartyia Communist Party (M); Sh. Balwinder Singh from BSP; Sh. Vijay Singh from Nationalist Congress Party; S Darshan Singh from CPI ; Sh. Roshan Lal from Freedom Fighter; Capt Balbir Singh from Ex-Servicemen; Sh. Kanwarjit Singh from Backward Classess; Sh. Roshan Singh from Scheduled Caste; Sh. Navneet Kumar from Youth category; Sh. Rajinder Singh from Nambardar; Sh. Baldev Krishen from Social Service; Sh. Sanjeev Dhingra from Business category; Sh. Sahib Singh from Industry; Sh. Bagicha Singh from Agriculture; Representative of MP Sh Dilbag Singh ;Represtative of MLA Ferozepur(Rural) S Surinder Singh ; Sh.Virsa Singh from Mazbi Sikh and Sh.Avtar Singh from BKU; ------- GHUMAN MEDICAL EYE CAMP TRAGEDY PUNJAB BANS HOLDING OF HEALTH CAMPS WITHOUT PRIOR APPROVAL OF CIVIL SURGEONS · NADDA OFFERS REFERRAL HEALTH FACILITIES AT AIIMS AND PGI TO PATIENTS OF EYE CAMP · JAYANI ASKS CIVIL SURGEONS TO KEEP AN EYE ON THE HEALTH CAMPS ORGANISED BY UNAUTHORIZED NGOs Chandigarh/Jammu, December 5: The Punjab government today banned holding of health camps without prior approval of the Civil Surgeons. Meanwhile, Taking serious note of the unrecognized NGOs holding health camps without informing the administration and the health department causing irreparable health hazards to the people, Health and Family Welfare Minister Punjab Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani today issued detailed instructions to all the Civil Surgeons of Punjab not to allow such camps that do not have sufficient number of medical specialists to hold such camps. Meanwhile as Punjab Health Minister Mr. Jayani who is away to Jammu on Election tour brought matter to the notice of Union Health Minister Mr. JP Nadda. Mr. Nadda assuring total support of the Health Ministry to look after patients affected by the Eye camp said that Punjab Health department can refer these patients to AIIMS, New Delhi and PGI, Chandigarh, if required so that world class ophthalmological experts could examine them and see if damage done to the eyes of unfortunate patients could be undone. He said that it has been made mandatory that civil surgeon before allowing any organization to hold medical camp would certify that the organization has sufficient medical infrastructure and medical specialists to conduct surgeries if required. He would also ensure that such camps use sterilized equipments for conducting the surgery and they conduct proper preoperative and post operative care of the patients. Expressing anguish at the avoidable tragedy at the Eye camp, Mr. Jayani said that it was unfortunate that such NGOs were playing with the lives of innocent people and this practice has to be checked strictly. He said that though health department welcomes people participation in extending medical care to the remote rural areas of Punjab but no organization would be allowed to conduct surgeries without any proper medical manpower and required infrastructure. The Minister has also asked the Civil Surgeons to ensure that the NGOs and other Voluntary Organizations if organizing health camps must have adequate infrastructure besides ensuring proper hygienic conditions. He has also sought complete details about the antecedents of the doctors and other people involved in organizing this eye camp. Issuing clear instructions to the Health department, the Minister asked the Civil Surgeons across the state to remain watchful in their respective districts regarding the camps being organized by the non government organizations (NGOs) in collaborations with the non-professionals. He said that nobody would be allowed to play with the health of the people of Punjab. He also said that the prior written permission from the Director Health was mandatory while holding any health camp anywhere in the state. He has also asked the Civil Surgeons of Amritsar and Gurdaspur to provide all the necessary emergent help to the patients who were admitted in the government hospitals at the government hospitals Gurdaspur and Amritsar. Mr. Jayani also said that the patients undergoing treatment at Amritsar Medical College and Hospital would be treated free of cost. - MAJITHIA DIRECTS IMMEDIATE DEMARCATION OF MUSLIM BURIAL GROUNDS v Asks DCs to personally monitor the progressChandigarh, December 3: Punjab Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today issued directions to all the Deputy Commissioners to get the demarcation of Muslim burial grounds recorded in the revenue records in their respective districts with immediate effect. In a communiqué issued to all Deputy Commissioners the Revenue Minister said that the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and he was getting complaints from many Muslim organizations regarding illegal encroachments on the burial grounds for Muslims and also regarding illegal possession of such lands. He categorically said that no body, whoever he may be, would be allowed to have any illegal possession of such lands. Mr. Majithia said that during Id celebrations in Malerkotla few months ago this issue was raised before Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal. He had promised to the Muslim brethren to do the needful after this issue was also was flagged by Punjab Muslim Welfare and Development Board. Mr. Majithia further directed to ensure removal of illegal possessions as per law before initiating demarcation process. Mr. Majithia pointed out that the Deputy Commissioners were also asked to prepare estimates of funds required for construction of proper boundary walls around these sites in consultation with Punjab Waqf Board and Punjab Muslim Welfare and Development Board. Reiterating the State government’s commitment to provide required lands for burial grounds, Mr. Majithia also promised to get vacated such sites from illegal possession. -------- Legislative affairs department to fill posts of Law Officers, Assistants (Legal) Department Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab legislative affairs department has invited applications from eligible candidates working in other departments to fill the posts of 5 law officers and 1 assistant (legal) in the office of Legal Remembrance and Secretary, Punjab Government, Legal and Legislative Department. Giving details, a Government spokesperson said that these vacancies will be filled up on the basis of transfer from amongst the Law Officers and Assistants (Legal) serving in the other departments. The spokesperson also said that the posts of law officers will be filled from amongst such officers of departments other than law and legislative, who are law graduate and have an experience of working as assistant involving legal work for minimum 2 years. For the post of assistant (legal) a person must possess degree in law and those candidates will be preferred who have experience of practicing at the bar for a minimum period of 1 year or should have worked on a post involving legal work for minimum 1 year. According to the spokesperson, instructions have been issued to all the Financial Commissioners, Principal Secretaries, Secretaries and Heads of the department to send the entire service record and applications of the employees working in their departments, who fulfill necessary qualifications and are willing to serve, in the legal remembrancer and secretary, Punjab Government, law and legislative department, permanently on transfer basis to the legal remembrancer and secretary, Punjab Government, room no. 25, 4th floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat, sector-1, Chandigarh till 5th December ---------- PUNJAB GOVERNMENT APPOINTS DIVISIONAL COMMISSIONERS AS COMMISSIONER Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab Government today notified the appointment of the Divisional Commissioners of Patiala, Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Faridkot and Rupnagar to work as Commissioner Rehabilitation & Resettlement in their respective Divisions, under the provisions Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. According to an official spokesperson of revenue, rehabilitation & disaster management department Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar districts have been notified as high potential growth districts, Bathinda, Fatehgarh Sahib Patiala, Roopnagar, Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar districts have been notified as middle potential districts whereas Sri Muktsar Sahib Barnala, Faridkot, Fazilka Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Mansa, Moga, Pathankot, Sangrur, TarnTaran have been notified as low potential districts. --------- PUNJAB STATE COMMISSION FOR MINORITIES CONSTITUTED Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab Government today notified the constitution of Punjab State Commission for Minorities to exercise the powers conferred on and to perform functions assigned to it under the said Act. According to an official spokesperson this notification has been issued in super session of the Government of Punjab, Department of Home Affairs and Justice, Notification No. 1/6/2008-1MC/116, dated the 21st January, 2010. The notification has been issued by Principal Secretary to Government of Punjab, Department of Home affairs and Justice. ------ MARKET COMMITTEES OF PATIALA, PATRAN, RAJPURA AND HOSHIARPUR GET NEW CHAIRMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS CM GIVES NOD FOR THESE NOMINATIONS CHANDIGARH DECEMBER 03: The Punjab Government today nominated new Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members in the market committees of Patiala, Patran and Rajpura in Patiala district and Market Committee Hoshiarpur. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this effect this afternoon and the formal orders regarding the nomination of the Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members of market Committees of Patiala, Patran, Rajpura and Hoshiarpur would be issued shortly. As per the orders Mr. Harinderpal Singh Tohra and Mr. Nardev Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Patiala Market Committee whereas Mr. Bhupinder Singh, Mr. Jaswinder Singh, Mr. Tarsem Singh, Ms. Balbir Kaur Ghuman, Mr. Gurdip Singh, Mr. Gurmit Singh, Mr. Harnek Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mrs. Gurtej Kaur, Mr.Jaspal Singh Kawatra, Mr. Harbans Lal, Mr. Sansari Lal, Mr. Tarsem Lal, Mr. Jarnail Singh and concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Nirmal Singh and Mr. Ravinder Singh Dhillon have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Patran Market Committee whereas Mr. Pargat Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr. Parminder Singh, Mrs. Harbhajan Kaur, Mr. Jaskaran Singh, Mr. Baghel Singh, Mr. Rai Singh Lakha, Mrs. Pappy Devi, Mr. Karaj Singh, Mr.Vijay Kumar, Mr. Lakhwinder Singh, Mr. Harpal Singh, Mr. Bhim Sain and Mr.Gurmukh Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Similarly, Mr. Kartar Singh Sandhu has been nominated as the Chairman Rajpura Market Committee whereas Mr. Major Singh, Mr. Bhupinder Singh Cheema, Mrs. Randeep Kaur, Mrs. Gurdev Kaur, Mr. Gurvinder Singh, Mr. Amarjeet Singh, Mr. Rajesh Kumar Tinni, Mr. Karnail Singh, Mr. Randhir Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. For Hoshiarpur Market Committee, Mr. Avtar Singh Johal and Mr. Tarsem Modgill have been nominated as Chairman and Vice Chairman whereas Mr. Joginder Singh, Mr. Avtar Singh Mintoo, Mr. Kishan Singh, Mr. Gurveer Singh, Mr. Hardip Singh, Mr. Jagtar Singh, Mrs. Jagjit Kaur, Mr.Jassa Singh, Mr. Balwinder Singh, Mr. Amrit Rai, Mr. Gurmit Singh, Mr. Surinder Singh Sandhu, Mr. Vijay Kumar Pathania and Mr. Taranjit Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. - 'Shagun' to be handed over 15 days before girls' marriage-Sukhbir Singh Badal (Fix responsibility of principals to send scholarship cases) (Will raise issue with GoI to include Punjab under PMAGY) Chandigarh, December 3 –Punjab Government has decided in principal that “Shaguns” to SC/BC girls will be provided 15 days before their marriages from January 2015. This major decision was taken by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal in a meeting with senior officers of social security, finance and social welfare department held here today. Mr. Badal has asked the secretary social welfare Mrs. Seema Jain to simplify the procedure with self attestation of documents to avail benefits in hassle free manner under shagun scheme. To check duplicity of beneficiaries Mr. Badal advised the department to cross check beneficiaries randomly and if any illegality was established than recipient would be liable to pay the double penalty and further punitive action. Reviewing the ongoing welfare schemes for students belongs to SC/BC and minorities in the state, Deputy Chief Minister has asked the officers to organize a meeting with Education Department and issue instructions to all heads of educational institutes to make sure that all scholarship cases must be sent within time to provide financial help under post-matric and pre-matric schemes. Besides, he also directed the department to popularize the scholarship schemes through an advertisement campaign within next 15 days. Giving details Mrs. Seema Jain informed Deputy CM that Rs. 394 crore have already been released to 5,92,523 SC/BC students from the year 2009-14 under post-matric scheme and all scholarships were disbursed upto 2014. Under pre-matric scholarship scheme Rs. 42.68 crore were also distributed to 1,89,705 SC students in 2014-15. Besides, department has received Rs. 376 crore under this scheme for 2014-15. It may be mentioned here that to get registration for scholarships Punjab Government web portal was a huge hit as number of beneficiaries have increased to 3.05 lakh as compare to last year. Deputy Chief Minister asked the department to remove the upfront payment for BC students to avail the benefit under this scheme. Taking a serious note of non-deposition of utilization certificates (UCs) by the departments in some cases, Mr. Badal asked the officers concerned to ensure UCs to be deposited in next week. Deputy Chief Minister said Punjab Government would raise the issue with ministry of social justice and empowerment to include Punjab under the “Pardhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojna (PMAGY) under which 1000 villages would be developed having 50 % or more SC population. He said that Punjab has the highest SC population (31.94%) in the country and Punjab must be included in this scheme along with Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamilnadu. It may be mentioned here that 2800 villages (23.01%) in the state have more than 50 % SC population. Prominent among others present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Deputy CM Mr. P.S. Aujla, Secretary Social Welfare Mrs. Seema Jain, Director Social Security Mrs Alak Nanda Dyal, Secretary Expenditure Mr Jaspal Singh, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM Mr Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Ajay Mahajan. ---------- PUNJAB ALL SET TO HOLD NRI SANGAT DARSHANS IN MOGA, JALANDHAR AND LUDHIANA v ASKS NRIs TO EMAIL THEIR PROBLEMS OR COMPLAINTS v PRINCIPAL SECRETARY NRI AFFAIRS REVIEWS THE ARRANGEMENTS WITH CONCERNED DCS THROUGH VIDEO-CONFERENCING Chandigarh, December 3: Taking a unique initiative, the Punjab government has decided to hold three Sangat Darshans for Non-resident Indians (NRIs) in Moga, Jalandhar and Ludhiana to redress their grievances. Disclosing this here today, Jathedar Tota Singh, NRI Affairs Minister, Punjab said that the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would preside over these sangat darshans, which were being held at Moga(28th December), Jalandhar (16th January, 2015) and Ludhiana (17th January, 2015). He further said that NRIs belonging to Moga, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Mansa and Barnala districts were being invited for Moga Sangat Darshan, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Tarntaran, Gurdaspur and Pathankot districts for Jalandhar and Ludhiana, SBS Nagar, Rupnagar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib and Sangrur for Ludhiana Sangat darshan. He said that to facilitate maximum number of NRIs to get resolved their issue, problems or complaints, entire state has been divided in to three parts. He said that an email addressnripunjab014@gmail.com has been created to receive the complaints or problems of NRIs well in advance by 15th December, 2014, so that required information or action could be taken and concerned officers should remain available on the occasion. He appealed the participating NRIs to bring their passports/OCI/PIO/NRP cards as their identity proofs. The NRI Affairs Minister said that our government was committed to strengthen the bond with Punjabis living across the globe besides making them a partner in state’s overall development. Meanwhile, Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Principal Secretary, NRI Affairs today reviewed the required arrangements for successful conduct of these NRI Sangat Darshans with Deputy Commissioners of Moga, Jalandhar and Ludhiana district through video-conferencing. He directed them to ensure the availability of concerned officers so that the participating NRIs shouldn’t face any problem and actual status of their complaints could be put before the Chief Minister and NRI Affairs Minister. - MAJITHIA DIRECTS IMMEDIATE DEMARCATION OF MUSLIM BURIAL GROUNDS v Asks DCs to personally monitor the progress Chandigarh, December 3: Punjab Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia today issued directions to all the Deputy Commissioners to get the demarcation of Muslim burial grounds recorded in the revenue records in their respective districts with immediate effect. In a communiqué issued to all Deputy Commissioners the Revenue Minister said that the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and he was getting complaints from many Muslim organizations regarding illegal encroachments on the burial grounds for Muslims and also regarding illegal possession of such lands. He categorically said that no body, whoever he may be, would be allowed to have any illegal possession of such lands. Mr. Majithia said that during Id celebrations in Malerkotla few months ago this issue was raised before Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal. He had promised to the Muslim brethren to do the needful after this issue was also was flagged by Punjab Muslim Welfare and Development Board. Mr. Majithia further directed to ensure removal of illegal possessions as per law before initiating demarcation process. Mr. Majithia pointed out that the Deputy Commissioners were also asked to prepare estimates of funds required for construction of proper boundary walls around these sites in consultation with Punjab Waqf Board and Punjab Muslim Welfare and Development Board. Reiterating the State government’s commitment to provide required lands for burial grounds, Mr. Majithia also promised to get vacated such sites from illegal possession. -------- Legislative affairs department to fill posts of Law Officers, Assistants (Legal) Department Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab legislative affairs department has invited applications from eligible candidates working in other departments to fill the posts of 5 law officers and 1 assistant (legal) in the office of Legal Remembrance and Secretary, Punjab Government, Legal and Legislative Department. Giving details, a Government spokesperson said that these vacancies will be filled up on the basis of transfer from amongst the Law Officers and Assistants (Legal) serving in the other departments. The spokesperson also said that the posts of law officers will be filled from amongst such officers of departments other than law and legislative, who are law graduate and have an experience of working as assistant involving legal work for minimum 2 years. For the post of assistant (legal) a person must possess degree in law and those candidates will be preferred who have experience of practicing at the bar for a minimum period of 1 year or should have worked on a post involving legal work for minimum 1 year. According to the spokesperson, instructions have been issued to all the Financial Commissioners, Principal Secretaries, Secretaries and Heads of the department to send the entire service record and applications of the employees working in their departments, who fulfill necessary qualifications and are willing to serve, in the legal remembrancer and secretary, Punjab Government, law and legislative department, permanently on transfer basis to the legal remembrancer and secretary, Punjab Government, room no. 25, 4th floor, Punjab Civil Secretariat, sector-1, Chandigarh till 5th December ---------- PUNJAB GOVERNMENT APPOINTS DIVISIONAL COMMISSIONERS AS COMMISSIONER Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab Government today notified the appointment of the Divisional Commissioners of Patiala, Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Faridkot and Rupnagar to work as Commissioner Rehabilitation & Resettlement in their respective Divisions, under the provisions Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. According to an official spokesperson of revenue, rehabilitation & disaster management department Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar districts have been notified as high potential growth districts, Bathinda, Fatehgarh Sahib Patiala, Roopnagar, Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar districts have been notified as middle potential districts whereas Sri Muktsar Sahib Barnala, Faridkot, Fazilka Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Mansa, Moga, Pathankot, Sangrur, TarnTaran have been notified as low potential districts. --------- PUNJAB STATE COMMISSION FOR MINORITIES CONSTITUTED Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab Government today notified the constitution of Punjab State Commission for Minorities to exercise the powers conferred on and to perform functions assigned to it under the said Act. According to an official spokesperson this notification has been issued in super session of the Government of Punjab, Department of Home Affairs and Justice, Notification No. 1/6/2008-1MC/116, dated the 21st January, 2010. The notification has been issued by Principal Secretary to Government of Punjab, Department of Home affairs and Justice. ------ MARKET COMMITTEES OF PATIALA, PATRAN, RAJPURA AND HOSHIARPUR GET NEW CHAIRMAN, VICE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS CM GIVES NOD FOR THESE NOMINATIONS CHANDIGARH DECEMBER 03: The Punjab Government today nominated new Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members in the market committees of Patiala, Patran and Rajpura in Patiala district and Market Committee Hoshiarpur. Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal cleared the file to this effect this afternoon and the formal orders regarding the nomination of the Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and members of market Committees of Patiala, Patran, Rajpura and Hoshiarpur would be issued shortly. As per the orders Mr. Harinderpal Singh Tohra and Mr. Nardev Singh have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Patiala Market Committee whereas Mr. Bhupinder Singh, Mr. Jaswinder Singh, Mr. Tarsem Singh, Ms. Balbir Kaur Ghuman, Mr. Gurdip Singh, Mr. Gurmit Singh, Mr. Harnek Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mrs. Gurtej Kaur, Mr.Jaspal Singh Kawatra, Mr. Harbans Lal, Mr. Sansari Lal, Mr. Tarsem Lal, Mr. Jarnail Singh and concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Likewise, Mr. Nirmal Singh and Mr. Ravinder Singh Dhillon have been nominated as the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Patran Market Committee whereas Mr. Pargat Singh, Mr. Darshan Singh, Mr. Parminder Singh, Mrs. Harbhajan Kaur, Mr. Jaskaran Singh, Mr. Baghel Singh, Mr. Rai Singh Lakha, Mrs. Pappy Devi, Mr. Karaj Singh, Mr.Vijay Kumar, Mr. Lakhwinder Singh, Mr. Harpal Singh, Mr. Bhim Sain and Mr.Gurmukh Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. Similarly, Mr. Kartar Singh Sandhu has been nominated as the Chairman Rajpura Market Committee whereas Mr. Major Singh, Mr. Bhupinder Singh Cheema, Mrs. Randeep Kaur, Mrs. Gurdev Kaur, Mr. Gurvinder Singh, Mr. Amarjeet Singh, Mr. Rajesh Kumar Tinni, Mr. Karnail Singh, Mr. Randhir Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. For Hoshiarpur Market Committee, Mr. Avtar Singh Johal and Mr. Tarsem Modgill have been nominated as Chairman and Vice Chairman whereas Mr. Joginder Singh, Mr. Avtar Singh Mintoo, Mr. Kishan Singh, Mr. Gurveer Singh, Mr. Hardip Singh, Mr. Jagtar Singh, Mrs. Jagjit Kaur, Mr.Jassa Singh, Mr. Balwinder Singh, Mr. Amrit Rai, Mr. Gurmit Singh, Mr. Surinder Singh Sandhu, Mr. Vijay Kumar Pathania and Mr. Taranjit Singh besides the concerned BDPO have been nominated as the members of the committee. - 'Shagun' to be handed over 15 days before girls' marriage-Sukhbir Singh Badal (Fix responsibility of principals to send scholarship cases) (Will raise issue with GoI to include Punjab under PMAGY) Chandigarh, December 3 –Punjab Government has decided in principal that “Shaguns” to SC/BC girls will be provided 15 days before their marriages from January 2015. This major decision was taken by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal in a meeting with senior officers of social security, finance and social welfare department held here today. Mr. Badal has asked the secretary social welfare Mrs. Seema Jain to simplify the procedure with self attestation of documents to avail benefits in hassle free manner under shagun scheme. To check duplicity of beneficiaries Mr. Badal advised the department to cross check beneficiaries randomly and if any illegality was established than recipient would be liable to pay the double penalty and further punitive action. Reviewing the ongoing welfare schemes for students belongs to SC/BC and minorities in the state, Deputy Chief Minister has asked the officers to organize a meeting with Education Department and issue instructions to all heads of educational institutes to make sure that all scholarship cases must be sent within time to provide financial help under post-matric and pre-matric schemes. Besides, he also directed the department to popularize the scholarship schemes through an advertisement campaign within next 15 days. Giving details Mrs. Seema Jain informed Deputy CM that Rs. 394 crore have already been released to 5,92,523 SC/BC students from the year 2009-14 under post-matric scheme and all scholarships were disbursed upto 2014. Under pre-matric scholarship scheme Rs. 42.68 crore were also distributed to 1,89,705 SC students in 2014-15. Besides, department has received Rs. 376 crore under this scheme for 2014-15. It may be mentioned here that to get registration for scholarships Punjab Government web portal was a huge hit as number of beneficiaries have increased to 3.05 lakh as compare to last year. Deputy Chief Minister asked the department to remove the upfront payment for BC students to avail the benefit under this scheme. Taking a serious note of non-deposition of utilization certificates (UCs) by the departments in some cases, Mr. Badal asked the officers concerned to ensure UCs to be deposited in next week. Deputy Chief Minister said Punjab Government would raise the issue with ministry of social justice and empowerment to include Punjab under the “Pardhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojna (PMAGY) under which 1000 villages would be developed having 50 % or more SC population. He said that Punjab has the highest SC population (31.94%) in the country and Punjab must be included in this scheme along with Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamilnadu. It may be mentioned here that 2800 villages (23.01%) in the state have more than 50 % SC population. Prominent among others present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Deputy CM Mr. P.S. Aujla, Secretary Social Welfare Mrs. Seema Jain, Director Social Security Mrs Alak Nanda Dyal, Secretary Expenditure Mr Jaspal Singh, Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM Mr Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Ajay Mahajan. ---------- PUNJAB ALL SET TO HOLD NRI SANGAT DARSHANS IN MOGA, JALANDHAR AND LUDHIANA v ASKS NRIs TO EMAIL THEIR PROBLEMS OR COMPLAINTS v PRINCIPAL SECRETARY NRI AFFAIRS REVIEWS THE ARRANGEMENTS WITH CONCERNED DCS THROUGH VIDEO-CONFERENCING Chandigarh, December 3: Taking a unique initiative, the Punjab government has decided to hold three Sangat Darshans for Non-resident Indians (NRIs) in Moga, Jalandhar and Ludhiana to redress their grievances. Disclosing this here today, Jathedar Tota Singh, NRI Affairs Minister, Punjab said that the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would preside over these sangat darshans, which were being held at Moga(28th December), Jalandhar (16th January, 2015) and Ludhiana (17th January, 2015). He further said that NRIs belonging to Moga, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bathinda, Mansa and Barnala districts were being invited for Moga Sangat Darshan, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Hoshiarpur, Amritsar, Tarntaran, Gurdaspur and Pathankot districts for Jalandhar and Ludhiana, SBS Nagar, Rupnagar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Sri Fatehgarh Sahib and Sangrur for Ludhiana Sangat darshan. He said that to facilitate maximum number of NRIs to get resolved their issue, problems or complaints, entire state has been divided in to three parts. He said that an email addressnripunjab014@gmail.com has been created to receive the complaints or problems of NRIs well in advance by 15th December, 2014, so that required information or action could be taken and concerned officers should remain available on the occasion. He appealed the participating NRIs to bring their passports/OCI/PIO/NRP cards as their identity proofs. The NRI Affairs Minister said that our government was committed to strengthen the bond with Punjabis living across the globe besides making them a partner in state’s overall development. Meanwhile, Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Principal Secretary, NRI Affairs today reviewed the required arrangements for successful conduct of these NRI Sangat Darshans with Deputy Commissioners of Moga, Jalandhar and Ludhiana district through video-conferencing. He directed them to ensure the availability of concerned officers so that the participating NRIs shouldn’t face any problem and actual status of their complaints could be put before the Chief Minister and NRI Affairs Minister. - Deputy CM to visit Roranwala tomorrow to pay condolences to S Jagjit Singh Roranwala's family (Bhog ceremony to be held on December 4) Chandigarh, December 2 - Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal will visit Roranwali village near Lambi in Muktsar district tomorrow to pay his condolences to the family of S Jagjit Singh Roranwala's, a renowned personality of the area, who passed away on November 26. Mr Roranwali was also father in law of Mr Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary to the Deputy CM. The "Bhog" ceremony in memory of Mr Jagjit Singh Roranwala is being held between 12 and 1 pm at Roranwala village on December 4. EOM - Punjab Government teams up with PHD Chamber To organize Punjab International Trade Expo from 4th – 8th December at Amritsar Madan Mohan Mittal releases brochure Chandigarh, 2nd December: Punjab International Trade Expo (PITEX), an International Trade Fair was today announced by Industry and Commerce Minister, Punjab, Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal in Udyog Bhawan. Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the Government said that while releasing the brochure of PITEX, the minister said that the venture undertaken by PHD Chamber will help in enhancing the international trade and economic cooperation in this side of the world. Mr. Dilip Sharma, Regional Director, PHD Chamber said that this is 9th edition of Punjab International Trade Expo, PITEX-14 is being organized by PHD Chamber and the Punjab Government from 4th to 8th December at Amritsar. The Expo shall offer the participating industry, an opportunity to showcase their products and services to diverse range of consumers from all parts of the world. Dr. Anshu Kataria, Convener, Education Committee, PHD Chamber and Chairman, Aryans Group of Colleges said that PITEX-14 will have over 100 international exhibitors and more than 250 exhibitors from India. During this event Interactive Seminars, conferences, B to B interactions with the visiting delegations will be held. Rajneesh Arora, Vice Chancellor,PTU; Karan Gilhotra, Akali Leader were also present on the occasion. -------- Surprise check at State Police headquarter by Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal sees most police officers absent from duty (Deputy CM warns absentees of strict disciplinary action) (Orders inquiry within 48 hours against police officers who failed to report for duty till 11 am today) Chandigarh, December 2 – Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal conducted a surprise check at the Punjab Police headquarters today morning during the course of which a majority of senior police officers were found missing from duty. Disclosing this here today, the Deputy CM’s media advisor Jangveer Singh said security personnel posted at the headquarters were in for a surprise when the Deputy CM’s vehicle reached the main gate of the building at 9.10 am. Immediately after alighting from his vehicle the Deputy CM directed officials accompanying him to seize the entry register as well as close all the entry points to the building. According to the entry register, only ADGP Intelligence Hardeep Dhillon was in the building. However during a check subsequently it was found that six officers had come on time to the office. Around fifty senior police officers have their offices in the police secretariat here. The first officer to come to office after the Deputy CM reached the headquarters was DIG Khubi Ram who reported on duty at 9.16 am. Following this a number of officers including ADGP Traffic R P Singh (9.23 am), IG Counter Intelligence Gaurav Yadav (9.25 am), AIG Dilbagh Singh (9.26 am), IG Provisioning Praveen Sinha (9.28 am), AIG Ashish Chaudhary (9.40 am), AIG K B Singh (9.51 am), SP Ranvir Singh (9.58 am), AIG Swarn Singh (10 am), AIG Baljot Rathore (10 am), ADGP CSR Redddy (10.05 am) and IG IVC Tejinder Pal Singh (10.15 am) reported to duty. State DGP Sumedh Singh Saini was conducting a meeting with representatives of the Nurmahal sect at his residence when the Deputy CM conducted the surprise check at the police headquarters. He arrived soon after. ADGP Law and Order Dinkar Gupta also arrived shortly. Three senior police officers chose to enter the headquarter building from the rear entrance, which is used by the junior staff, to avoid the Deputy CM. They were reprimanded by the DGP and the Deputy CM and asked to conduct themselves in an officer like manner in future. The Deputy CM had earlier taken up a seat in front of the entrance of the police headquarters. All officers arriving late were asked to wait in a room on the ground floor. Later Mr Sukhbir Badal addressed the police officers and told them that such lackadaisical attitude about office timings was unacceptable. He also warned them that strict disciplinary action would be taken against anyone found arriving late to office in future. Later Mr Badal also held a meeting in the DGP’s office. He asked the DGP Mr Sumedh Saini to call for an explanation from all those who arrived late to office. He also took serious note of the fact that some police officers did not report to work even till 11 am. He directed the Home Secretary to conduct an inquiry within 48 hours to ascertain why these police officers had played truant despite not taking leave from office. Senior officers who failed to report to work included DGP Human Resource Development S K Sharma, ADGP Policy and Rules Mohammad Mustafa, IG Traffic R P S Brar, IG Community Policing Anita Punj, IG Information Technology KJS Pannu, IG Modernisation Shashi Prabha, DIG Ananya Gautam and DIG Nilabh Kishore besides six SPs and AIGs. Meanwhile Mr. Jangveer Singh disclosed that the Deputy CM has asked the DGP to ensure punctual attendance of all officers at the headquarters as well as in the field. Mr Badal directed that all SSPs should be present in their offices at 9 am sharp so that they could do the required administrative duties and also redress the grievances of the people promptly. EOM - Congress on its political death bed-Sukhbir Singh Badal PPSC general secretary & former MLA Ramesh Singla joins Shiromani Akali Dal Chandigarh, December 2: Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee General Secretary and former MLA from Nabha Mr Ramesh Singla today joined the Shiromani Akali Dal in the presence of Party President and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal here today. While inducting Mr. Singla into the party fold at a simple function at his residence, the SAD President said the very fact that a popular and grass root leader like Mr Singla was joining the SAD was proof that the Congress was on its death bed in Punjab. “This is not all”, Mr Badal said adding more Congress leaders would join the SAD in the coming days. He said Congress leaders were leaving their parent party in droves because they no longer had faith in its leaders and also wanted to do something for the people whom they represented. “All Congress men now realize this is possible by following the footsteps of chief minister S Parkash Singh Badal and participating in the pro development movement launched by the SAD-BJP combine”. Mr Badal assured that all Congress leaders joining the SAD would be accorded due status and respect in the party fold. Meanwhile Mr. Singla said he did not see any political future for the Congress in Punjab as its leaders were devoid of any vision. He said he has been a kabaddi fan and promoting this rural game since two decades but no party and political personality gave the due recognition to this game except Punjab Deputy CM Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal. He said the initiatives taken by chief minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal had convinced him to join the SAD unconditionally. He said he along with his supporters would leave no stone unturned for the success of the party candidate to be fielded by the party in Nabha constituency. Mr Singla has also served as President Punjab Youth Congress and president municipal committee Nabha. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Avtar Singh Brar chairman PRTC, Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu MLA, Bibi Kuldeep Kaur Tohra member SGPC, Parmjit Singh Sidhwan political secretary to Deputy CM, Jathedar Kartar Singh Alohran senior vice president SAD Patiala Rural, Jaspal Juneja president SAD Nabha circle, Amit Garg Nabha and other senior leaders of Party. - SURPRISE CHECK IN SOCIAL SECURITY DIRECTORATE FINDS 5 OFFICERS AND 28 OTHER EMPLOYEES ABSENT CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 2: Five senior officers and 28 group B, C & D employees of the Social Security and Women & Child development department were caught absent by a special raiding team of personnel department that conducted surprise check in the office during opening hours. According to an official spokesperson to ensure regularity, discipline and punctuality in Government offices throughout the State, a surprise check in directorate of Social Security and Women & Child welfare at sector 34 was conducted. Giving the details, official spokesperson said that this surprise checking was conducted by the team consisted of Special Secretary Personnel, Ms. Gurpreet Kaur Sapra and Special Secretary General Administration Mr. Manjit Singh Narang, on the instruction of Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal. He said that 5 officers including 2 Deputy Directors, one DCFA and 2 CDPOs were found absent. He said that 28 other employees were also found absent during the surprise check. Taking a serious view of lax attitude of the employees not maintain their punctuality despite repeated instructions and advisories, the spokesperson said that instructions have been issued to head of the department to issue show cause notice to all erring officer and employees and in the absence of any satisfactory reply from them, strict action under civil service rules be initiated against them. He said that such inspections shall be conducted in future also and any kind of irregularity in official work and absenteeism would not be tolerated.
---- Grievances Redressal Mechanism devised by Technical Education & Industrial Training Department · Services to be delivered at 4 levels Each level to have a Public Grievance Officer Chandigarh, December 1: The Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Government of Punjab, has devised a mechanism for the purpose of the redressal of grievances. Disclosing this, a spokesperson of the department said that this mechanism shall be delivering the services at 4 levels. Those levels will be – Directorate of Technical Education, Punjab State Board of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Punjab Technical University and Schools & Colleges. Giving further details, the spokesperson said that each of these levels will appoint a ‘Public Grievances Officer’ who will be responsible for keeping a separate register concerning the record of the complaints. A complaint shall contain the Date of receipt of complaint, Name, Address, Contact Number of the complainant, Whether acknowledgement given at the time of receipt, Subject of grievance, Office to which it pertains, Brief Description and Date of acknowledgement redressal. The spokesperson also said that for the Directorate of Technical Education, Additional Director will be the Nodal Officer and Secretary, Technical Education will be the appellate authority. For Polytechnics and Engineering colleges, Principals of concerned institutions shall discharge the duties of Nodal Officers while Director, Technical Education or Additional Director nominated by the Director, shall be the appellate authority. For Punjab State Board of Technical Education and Industrial Training, Secretary of the board shall be the Nodal Officer and Chairman of the board will be the appellate authority. For Punjab Technical University, Registrar will be the Nodal Officer while the responsibility of appellate authority has been bestowed upon the Vice-Chancellor. According to the spokesperson, each complaint shall be received and delivered to the designated PUBLIC GREIVANCE OFFICER (PGO) by post, by hand, fax and e-mail. Upon receiving the complaint, the PGO will confirm that whether the submitted complaint is in anyway concerned with the activities of the above 4 levels. If that is so, then the PGO shall deal with it and acknowledge the receipt in writing within 2 days of receiving it. ------------ PROXIMITY ATTENDANCE RECORDER SYSTEM TO BE OPERATIONAL IN BOTH SECRETARIATS SOON · FOCUS ON ENSURING PUNCTUALITY OF OFFICERS/EMPLOYEES CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 1: Punjab Government is all set to make operational ’ Proximity Attendance Recorder system’ in Punjab Civil Secretariat I & II to enforce punctuality amongst the staff. According to an official spokesperson all officers/employees working in Punjab Civil Secretariat I & II and officers/ employees routinely visiting the secretariats have been issued special Proximity Attendance Recorder touch entry cards under the system. The spokesperson said that all officers/employees have already been issued these cards and the employees who have not collected these cards have been advised to collect new entry cards at the earliest. The spokesperson said that under the system each officer/employee would be touching the card on the recorder machine installed at each gate and attendance time of employee would be recorded in the centralized computer to keep a tab on punctuality and timing of employees. Instruction in this regards issued to all officer/employees working in Punjab Civil Secretariat I & II. -------- CM TO INAUGURATE 60TH NATIONAL SCHOOL GAMES ON DECEMBER 8: DR.CHEEMA · EDUCATION MINISTER REVIEWS THE PREPAREDNESS OF THE DEPARTMENT · NATIONAL STYLE KABADDI ON MAT WOULD BE THE NEW EDITION IN THE GAMES CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 1: Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister, Punjab would formally inaugurate the 60thNational School Games of National Style Kabaddi and Dodgeball at village Badal (Sri Mukatsar Sahib) on December 8, 2014. Disclosing this here today Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister, Punjab said that all the preparations in this regard have been completed. Dr. Cheema said that he reviewed the progress of the arrangements today in the meeting of the department. He said that Punjab is hosting the 60th National School Games which would be conducted in two phases. He said that during the first phase of the 60th National School Games at Sri Anandpur Sahib the competition of Circle Style Kabaddi, Boxing, Gatka and Handball have already been conducted now in the second phase the competation of U-19 (boys and girls) National Style Kabaddi and Dodgeball games would be held at Mata Jaswant Kaur Memorial School at village Badal. Dr. Cheema said that around 900 players would participate in the games from all the states. He said that National Style Kabaddi would be played first time on the mat. ------------- FOUR NEW GALLERIES OF VIRASAT-E-KHALSA BE DEDICATED TO PUBLIC IN JUNE 2015 · SETTING UP OF ENTERTAINMENT PARK AT SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB IS ON THE ANVIL · STATE TO PROVIDE ALL HELP FOR THE SETTING UP OF 3 STAR ASHOKA HOTEL AT SRI ANANDPUR SAHIB CHANDIGARH, DECEMBER 1: Under second phase of Virasat-e-Khalsa the construction work of four new galleries is under progress and the work would be completed till June 2015. These galleries would exhibit the Sikh history from the time of inception of Sri Guru Granth Sahib to the regime of Maharaja Ranjit Singh upto the year 1848. It was disclosed by Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Tourism & Cutural Affairs Minister who was here today to inspect the construction work of the second phase of Virasat-e- Khalsa. He said that these four galleries would be dedicated to the public in the month of June 2015 when the 350th foundation of Sri Anandpur Sahib would be in progress. He said that it is on the top of agenda of the Punjab Government to promote Sri Aanadpur Sahib a tourist hub. “A committee comprised of three cabinet minister of Punjab has been constituted to explore possibilities of tourism in this area” said Mr. Thandal. He said that in this committee besides he himself, Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Industry Minister and Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema, Education Minister have been included. Mr. Thandal Further said that for the setting up of Bhai Jaita Ji memorial, The Punjab Government has already acquired 5 acres of land and if need be more land be procured for this purpose. He disclosed that to facilitate the tourists visiting Sri Anandpur Sahib, a Reception Centre would soon set up near Panj Piyara Park. He said that the estimated cost of this project would be Rs. 20 lakh. Speaking on the issue of the much talked about three stars Ashoka Hotel; He said that the principal Secretary of tourism department, Ms. Anjali Bhawra has recently toured this area to explore possibility of such hotel. He said that the Punjab government would provide all possible help for the setting up hotel in this area. ------ NO SHORTAGE OF UREA IN THE STATE-TOTA SINGH Chandigarh, December 1: The Agriculture Minister of Punjab Jathedar Tota Singh today said that there was no shortage of urea for the sowing of wheat and other seasonal crops in the State. Giving the details he said that in the last three days seventy thousand tonnes of urea has arrived in the state. He said that IFFCO has fifty thousand tonne excess urea in the stock . He also asked the officials to check the pesticide stores to check the illegal holding of fertilizers, if any. Besides that it was also decided to aware the farmers about not to purchase any other thing forcefully with fertilizer and pesticides, and the report the same to the authorities. Expressing satisfaction over the distribution of wheat seed in recent season, Jathedar Tota Singh said that agricultural officers should visit the fields and advise the farming community to save the crop from diseases. The Agriculture Minister ordered the officials of department to deposit utilization certificates of various centrally sponsored schemes within a week so that the state government could put the case for next grant for diversification plan. Reviewing the implementation of ongoing agriculture schemes in a meeting here, the Minister said that Punjab Government would push the case for remaining 254 crore to run the schemes like ATMA. ------- Punjab first state to launch e-Sarkar to witness paperless governance (All 47 departments with 143 branches to route common tasks online) (22 treasuries and 74 sub-treasuries have automated online processing) Chandigarh December 1 – Consolidating its plans to ensure absolute e-governance, Punjab would soon become the first state in the country having status of e-Sarkar covering all 47 departments and its 143 branches with Integrated Workflow and Document Management System (IWDMS) to process common tasks online. Besides, 22 treasuries and 74 sub-treasuries across the state have been connected with Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) to distribute and sanction budget online. Under IWDMS system a dedicated web centre of automated department specific applications (DSAs) with internal requirements have been created in both Punjab civil secretariats at Chandigarh particularly focusing on various reports, which are currently being collected from the field offices manually. A total number of 350 DSAs have been identified in all departments covering administrative areas to generate automation of MIS reports. In a statement issued here Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is also holding the governance reforms portfolio, said that this Government to Government service delivery system would make sure the availability of administrative services through e-Sarkar and automation of file processing. Describing it a unique initiative to streamline and bring efficiency and transparency in public functioning Mr. Badal added that a three-tier governing mechanism has been institutionalized by Punjab Infotech for effective implementation and review of this project. He said that e-Sarkar would also provide for an online repository of various circulars, acts, gazette notifications, reports etc. He said e-Sarkar has automated various common tasks in secretariat functioning such as RTI, legislative assembly questions, court cases, appointment scheduler, visitor pass management system (VPMS) and various employee services including leave, salary, GPF etc. The application helps in Management of court cases related to the departments through monitoring and tracking of the cases through its various stages and reminding the next date of hearing. Deputy CM also informed that all 88 HoDs have been enabled to distribute and sanction budget online through e-Sarkar's IFMS by the department of Planning. A dedicated e-payment gateway for inward remittances to state treasury for various types of taxes and fees has also developed. He informed that e-Sarkar having toll-free helpdesk number 1800-419-0737 providing dedicated support to users from 95 treasuries/sub treasuries and 47 departments. Adding further he said that under this project all the treasuries and sub-treasuries including head office in the department of finance has been automated for carrying out major functions for online processing such as budget preparation & allocation, DDOs bill submission, processing, accounting, deposit, strong room, loc, PPO number generation, commuted value of pension, cyber treasury, debt management functions and interfacing with Accountant General. ----------
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