SPECIAL COMMITTEE TO BE RECONSTITUTED TO REVIEW PROPERTY TAX IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, March 4, 2014

 The SAD - BJP government has decided to reconstitute a special committee to review property tax in Punjab.

A decision to this effect was taken after joint consultations held on this issue between Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and Local Bodies minister Anil Joshi. The issue was earlier also taken up for discussion at the party platform.

Disclosing this an official spokesman said the committee would also examine the rate tariff for rented, self occupied and commercial areas besides reviewing the collector rate in various districts of Punjab.

The spokesman said feedback taken from the field would be the benchmark for the entire review exercise. He said the effective date for implementation of the revised tariffs would also be decided by the committee. EOM

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 SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL URGES YOUTH TO LEAD "CONGRESS HATAO DESH BACHAO" COMPAIGN

·        15,000 CRORE TO BE SPENT ON STRENGTHENING ROAD NETWORK

·        RS. 2500 CRORE TO BE SPENT ON MODERNISATION OF MOHALI

 SAS NAGAR March 4: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today urged the youth to lead the "Congress Hatao Desh Bachao" movement in Punjab, asserting the Congress led UPA government had failed to give any direction to the youth of the country who were feeling demoralised by rampant corruption, scams and lack of employment opportunities.

Addressing a massive youth rally after inaugurating a blood donation camp organized by senior Akali leader Harjinder Singh Balongi near Kharar, Mr. Badal said that keeping in view the deteriorating financial condition of the nation, it was inevitable that a major change was required in the social polity of India.  He urged the electorate especially the youth to ensure Narendera Modi’s victory as the Prime Minister of India if they wanted to see the nation back on the rails of development and financial stability.

Expressing his strong feeling about the aware electorate of Punjab, Mr. Badal said the SAD-BJP would create history in the coming months by winning all 13 Parliament seats because the people could easily differentiate between a development oriented State and a scam ridden central government.

Referring to the pace of development witnessed in Punjab for the last seven years, Mr. Badal said the development of the state had always been a top priority of the SAD-BJP government. "People will witness massive and unprecedented growth in every sector in the coming two years", he added. He said in the coming two years an amount of Rs 15,000 Crore would be spent on strengthening the road network in the state.

He also said that in order to modernize Mohali and its surrounding towns, an amount of Rs. 2500 crore would be spent entirely on improving the infrastructure. Lashing out at the opposition parties for their irrelevant hue and cry over the empty state coffers, Mr. Badal said that the overall development in the state speaks volumes about the financial health of Punjab. He also said that Mohali would be developed as a IT Town in the coming three years. He said recently renowned IT Company Infosys had laid the foundation stone of its campus in Mohali which would give employment to 20,000 people in the coming three years.

Reiterating his vision to minimize the interaction of common masses with public servants by educating people about Right to Service Act, Mr. Badal said there was only one solution to wipe out corruption that was to reduce the interaction between general public and public offices by providing all citizen services through online system.  Mr. Badal said that in the first phase all 147 citizen services have been integrated with the portal. He said citizen can also avail the services related to ration card and Right to Information.

Prominent among others who addressed the rally included Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Jarnail Singh Bajwa, and other leaders of SAD-BJP leaders of the state.

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CONGRESS, PPP AND AAP HAVE LOST THE RACE AND PULLING IN DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS---SUKHBIR BADAL

·        SENIOR CONGRESS LEADERS ARE SHUNNING THE PARTY TICKETS

·        LAYS FOUNDATION STONES OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WORTH Rs. 135 CRORE

LUDHIANA, MARCH 4: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said the Congress, Peoples Party of Punjab (PPP) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had lost the race in Punjab as they were all pulling in different directions in direct contrast to the SAD-BJP alliance which was going to the polls as a united force.

Laying the foundation stone of effluent treatment plant here at Tajpur Road worth Rs. 135 crore, Mr. Badal said the state of the Punjab Congress was such that it was finding it difficult to find candidates in the forthcoming parliamentary elections. "Senior Congress leaders are shunning the party ticket", he added.

Answering a question about the future of the Congress, PPP and AAP in Punjab, Mr. Badal said all three were looking for alliances and help from other parties as the people of the State were unwilling to repose faith in them.

 Reiterating the commitment of SAD-BJP to develop Punjab as No. 1 State in the country, Mr. Badal said development would be the poll plank of alliance which would showcase the work done by it in the last seven years. He said that on the other hand the Congress government at the Center was following its agenda of discrimination against Punjab but despite deliberate and constant hurdles put up by the UPA the State was progressing by leaps and bounds in all areas. He said now that the Congress hadnno issue to rake up against SAD-BJP alliance it's decimation was inevitable.

Mr. Badal said that all the development projects recently initiated by the state government would become operational within next two years. He said the sewerage treatment plant of Tajpur road would prove a boon not only for Ludhiana industrial units but for the entire Malwa region after one and half years. He said Ludhiana is all set to witness massive development as the Punjab Government has started the implementation of Rs. 2000 crore development projects in the city, which would be accomplished within next two and half years. He also announced to give scheduled road status to byepass road. 

Giving a call to traders community, Mr. Badal said the traders of the state should take full advantage of recently launched Rahat Scheme of Punjab Government and said soon this scheme would be expanded to the remaining towns of the state. He also announced that after six months the farmers will get on demand tube well connections as Punjab had become a power surplus state.

Mr. Badal said that formation of NDA government was the dire need of the country. He said Mr. Narendra Modi was the only political personality in the country who had the vision to lead the country to new heights of success, development, progress, prosperity and growth.

Earlier Mr. Ranjit Singh Dhillon, local MLA welcomed the Deputy CM and extended thanks for initiating development projects on large scale at Ludhiana. He assured Mr. Badal that the electorate would send Mr. Manpreet Singh Aiyali, SAD candidate to Parliament from Ludhiana. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, PWD Minister, Mr. Hira Singh Gabria, former minister.

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CM FOR EMERGING COOPERATIVE BANKS OF PUNJAB AS LEADING ONE IN THE COUNTRY

STRENGTHENING AND MODERNIZATION OF COOPERATIVE BANKS TO BENEFIT WEAKER AND DISADVANTAGED SECTIONS OF SOCIETY

HANDS OVER APPOINTMENT LETTERS TO 90 NEWLY RECRUITED OFFICERS OF PUNJAB STATE COOPERATIVE BANKS

Chandigarh, March 4-

          Underlining the need for making state’s cooperative banks as a leading one in the country, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that it would immensely benefit the weaker and disadvantaged sections of the society by imparting valuable services to them.  

          Addressing the newly inducted Senior Managers, Managers and Information Technology Officers in the Punjab State Cooperative Banks here at Punjab Bhawan, the Chief Minister said that the Cooperative Banks play a leading role in providing banking services to the people residing in the rural areas of the state due to which the state government had laid special emphasis on strengthening and modernizing these banks. Mr. Badal said that these officers would not only play a pivotal role in improving the functioning of the Cooperative banks but would also help in improving the economic lot of the farmers besides playing a key role in rural development. He said that though the state government had already taken path breaking initiatives for upgrading the infra structure in these banks but the shortage of requisite Human resource in them was a major obstacle in delivering quality services to the customers. However Mr. Badal said that with the recruitment of these 90 professional officers the entire functioning of these banks would witness sea change in deliverance of customer centric services to the people.

          Exhorting the newly appointed officers to discharge their duties with utmost dedication and commitment, the Chief Minister said that there was no short cut to success as a person could excel in his career only through sheer hard work and devotion. Mr. Badal expressed hope that through their hard work and sincerity these young officers would infuse a new spirit in the working of the Cooperative banks thereby carving a niche for themselves in this field as a real professional. He also directed the officers of the cooperative department to fulfill the remaining vacant posts in the department so that far better services could be delivered to the customers.  

          In his welcome address Financial Commissioner Cooperation and Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu apprised the Chief Minister that these officers have been selected through a competitive exam conducted in a transparent manner. Mr. Sandhu also informed the Chief Minister that with the recruitment of these officers the functioning of these banks would get a major boost, besides being instrumental in imparting quality services to the people. He said that in last two years the department has conducted a recruitment drive to fill 1044 vacant posts adding that around 450 officers/ officials have been given promotion during these years.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also handed over the appointment letter to the newly appointed officers.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Chairman of Punjab State Cooperative Banks Mr. SS Murar, Registrar Cooperative Societies Mr. AS Miglani and Managing Director Punjab State Cooperative Banks Mr. Kamaldeep Singh Sangha.

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ACCIDENT RATE IN PUNJAB IS BELOW ONE PER THOUSAND WORKERS AGAINST NATIONAL FIGURE OF 9

·       Punjab approves on-site emergency plans to tackle accidents in factories- Chunni Lal Bhagat 

·    Presents “Punjab Kirty Shiromani award” and “Punjab Kirti Veer awards”

 CHANDIGARH, MARCH 4:

Punjab today became first state in the northern India by approving the on-site emergency plan for all the 64 major accident prone factories to create an accident free and healthy working environment in factories thereby strictly ensuring the implementation of international safety norms.  

Addressing a august gathering after awarding “Punjab Kirty Shiromani award” and “Punjab Kirti Veer award” on the 43rd National safety day Mr. Chunni Lal Bhagat, Labour Minister said that to create awareness and sense of responsibility among industrial managements and workers. He said that Punjab Government was working in association with the Disaster Management Institute, Bhopal and the labour department has asked this institute to prepare off-site emergency plans for six districts having maximum concentration of major accident hazardous units.

The Minister said that Punjab Government has taken some major steps for rthe safety of labour class which has shown outstanding results as 98.9% industries were accident free in the state. He also appreciated the work done by Punjab industrial safety council and the managements of various industries who have worked very hard to bring about drastic reduction in the accident rate and desired that Punjab state should aim towards zero accident rate.

On this occasion the 29 representatives of factories were given “State Safety awards” for zero accidents in their factories, whereas those 8 workers who have played exemplary role in bringing about safety and higher productivity by their valuable suggestions were honoured with state level awards known as “Punjab Kirty Shiromani award” and 6 with “Punjab Kirti Veer award”.

 Mr. Harbhupinder Singh Nanda, Labour Commissioner cum director of factories said that in Punjab accident rate is less than one per thousand workers against the national figure of nine.

Mr. Vishavajeet Khanna, principal secretary labour has also addressed the gathering. On this occasion the workers and managements took ‘safety pledge’ for adopting safe methods of work to keep work environment safe, healthy and clean.

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PUNJAB APPROVES PROJECTS FOR AMRITSAR WORTH RS. 127 CRORE: JOSHI

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 4:

          The Punjab Government has sanctioned two prestigious projects worth Rs.127 crore for Amritsar. Disclosing this here today Mr. Anil Joshi, Minister for Local Bodies, Punjab, said that the projects of Solid Waste Management and Internal Circular Road Management have been approved by the Punjab Government which would be completed with the cost of Rs.98 crore and Rs.29 crore respectively.

          The Minister further said that first installment of Rs.61.13 crore has already been released for Bus Rapid Transport Project at Amritsar and Rs.11.13 crore for Sewerage work of Amritsar’s South East zone. He reiterated that the holy city Amritsar would don new look with the completion of these projects. He said that Punjab Government is committed for over all development of Amritsar.

          Mr. Joshi said that approach roads under Elevated Road Project, GT road-Tarn taran link road and Sewerage work with the cost of Rs.74 crore are under consideration.

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GOVERNOR FOR EARLY RESOLUTION OF INTER-STATE ISSUES

PLEADS FOR COOPERATIVE FEDERALISM IN THE COUNTRY

STRESSES ON THE NEED FOR EXPEDITIOUS IMPLEMENTATION OF 'RIPARIAN PRINCIPLE' FOR RESOLVING WATER ISSUES

ADVOCATES ENHANCEMENT IN SHARE OF STATES IN CENTRAL TAXES FROM EXISTING 30 TO 50%

UNDERLINE STATE'S COMMITMENT FOR PROMOTION OF PUNJABI LANGUAGE IN STATES HAVING SIZEABLE PUNJABI POPULATION

PERPETRATORS OF 1984 SIKH CARNAGE MUST BE PUNISHED FOR THEIR GORY DEEDS

BATS FOR ECONOMIC PACKAGE FOR THE STATE ON THE LINES OF GIVEN TO NEIGHBOURING STATES

"PUNJAB BELONGS TO ALL OF US; SO DOES THE PUNJAB GOVERNMENT"- PATIL

Chandigarh, March 3-, 2014

Reiterating Punjab government's firm commitment for an early resolution of inter-state issues, the Punjab Governor Mr. Shivraj V Patil also strongly pleaded for cooperative federalism in the country, in which states and centre were equal and responsible partners in progress.   

Addressing the members of Punjab Vidhan Sabha in his inaugural address the third budget session of the 14th state assembly, the Governor mentioned that several important issues relating to the state still remain unresolved adding that the state has been denied its capital, Chandigarh and vast Punjabi speaking areas have been left out of it at the time of reorganisation in 1966. The deadline for the purpose of transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab was set by the Government of India (GoI) as January 26, 1986, which has not been done so far. He said that Punjab also reiterates that the agreed arrangement on the ratio of representation to Punjab and Haryana in the services in the Union Territory of Chandigarh might be preserved by the Union Government in the light of assurance given by it.

Stressing on the need for expeditious implementation of 'Riparian Principle', the Governor said that this important issue based on this nationally and internationally accepted Principle with regard to utilisation of water of the rivers passing through the State, must be disposed off accordingly. He said that Punjab already faces severe water crisis with ground water level going alarmingly down because of excessive reliance of our farmers on tube well irrigation. Keeping in view, this problem needs to be resolved expeditiously, which has unfortunately not been done so far.

Justifying the rationale behind the cooperative federalism in the country, the Governor demanded that the share of states in central taxes be increased from the present 30% to 50% and that these funds should be given to states in an untied manner. He said that Punjab was in favour of creating a situation in which the principles of federalism were accepted, advocated and practised fully. It also feels that the financial strength and autonomy should be given to the State so that the demands of the people were addressed and met in an expeditious and just manner. He said that the state Government was in a better position to understand and address the problems of the people of the state. National priorities on development need, therefore, be recast in a manner in which the State’s and overall interest of the nation were fulfilled.

Underlining the need and state's commitment for the promotion of Punjabi language, Mr. Patil said that the Punjabi language should not only be promoted in the state where it was the mother tongue and language for official communication, but also in states where there was a sizeable presence of population of Punjabi origin.

Calling upon the GoI to take effective steps to punish the guilty and provide credible relief to innocent victims of the 1984 Sikh Massacre, the Governor mentioned that the wounds of thousands of innocents who were made brutal targets of cruelty in Delhi and several other parts of the country in November 1984 still cry out for justice and relief. The principal culprits responsible for this inhuman carnage were well recognized and identified by various respected legal and other luminaries, including leading voices from the media, but even thirty years after the tragedy, ‘the long arm of law’ has not been allowed to reach them. Some of them were in fact rewarded for their gory deeds with high positions including berths in the Union Cabinet. In such an atmosphere, people’s faith in the fairness of the system was certain to take a beating.

Dwelling on the state's economy especially its industry, the Governor said that it has been suffering badly because of concessions given by the Government of India to the neighbouring States. Punjab as a strategic border state deserved similar, if not better concessions as given to its neighbouring states. Although the Progressive Investors Summit organised by the State recently brought all the big industrial houses and captains of business and industry and has created a suitable atmosphere for industrial investment yet the existing policy of the tax concessions by Government of India to our neighbouring States, was creating problems for the State. Therefore, to facilitate the development and investment in the State, our Government urges the GoI to extend to Punjab, the concessions given to our neighbouring States. He said that Punjab felt discriminated in economic matters as the State has not received any major large scale central project, except the Bathinda Refinery which it got during the tenure of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Expressing great satisfaction over Punjab being a symbol of peace and communal harmony in the country, the Governor said that this was a good achievement of our Government because it has been made possible despite severe locational and historical disadvantages. He stated Punjab was a border State with a long, live and hostile neighbourhood. This makes the achievement of our Government in maintaining peace and communal harmony in the State remarkable adding Mr. Patil said that this has been made possible because of mature and enlightened vision of those who govern the State and the attitude of the people and vigilance and alterness of the law enforcing agencies. In addition to this, state government has effectively ended the unseemly atmosphere of political confrontation from the State. It was perfectly legitimate for political parties and leaders to advocate different political philosophies and beliefs and to exercise their right for dissent in a civilised, peaceful and democratic manner. He said that the state Government has led from the front in creating an atmosphere of mutual trust, based on constructive consensus and conciliation.

Meanwhile, the Governor briefly highlighted the significant achievements of the state government in the fields of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development, Power, Industries and Commerce, Health and Family Welfare especially the war declared on Cancer, Medical Education and Research, Law and Order, Local Government, Welfare of Schedule Castes and Backward Classes, Social Security, Women and Child Development, Finance, Irrigation and Drainage, Public Works (B&R), Water Supply and Sanitation, Rural Development and Panchyats, Revenue, Excise and Taxation, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Cooperation, Housing and Urban Development, Civil Aviation, Information and Technology, Forest, Labour, Employment Generation and Training, Science Technology and Environment, Technical Education and Industrial Training, NRI Affairs, Personnel, Planning, Border and Kandi Areas, Punjab Energy Development Agency, Sports and Youth Services, Tourism, Cultural Affairs, Vigilance, Information and Public Relations and Governance Reforms.

Summing up his address, the Governor emphasised that the principle ingredient of our Government’s vision of Governance was peace and communal harmony with development.  The last seven years have seen Punjab emerge as the vanguard of the nation for the establishment of a society in which all citizens live in peace and work together for the betterment of the state and the country. He said that while development was a result of the far-sighted policies, perseverance and hard work of our government, peace and communal harmony in the state was a tribute to the commitment of the people and the government alike to make Punjab a land of dreams which our great Gurus, saints and seers had about the future of our great state and country.

The Governor was confident that discussions and deliberations during this session would be conducted in a most constructive and dignified manner, respecting one another’s views and convictions adding that it was the firm belief of state government that in a democracy, there was room for peaceful, democratic and dignified expression of dissent, and state Government always respected that. Finally he said, "Punjab belongs to all of us; so does the Punjab Government".   

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GoI APPROVES CM’S PROPOSAL TO ISSUE COMMEMORATIVE POSTAGE STAMP ON KUKA MOVEMENT

 KAPIL SIBAL WRITES TO CM IN THIS BEHALF

 

CHANDIGARH MARCH 03:

            The Government of India (GoI) has given nod to issue commemorative postage stamp on Kuka Movement for the year 2014.

            In a letter addressed to the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the Union Minister of Communications, IT and Law & Justice Mr. Kapil Sibal has informed Mr. Badal about the decision, Mr. Sibal urged the Chief Minister to further nominate a nodal officer in order to coordinate with department of Posts for issuance of commemorative postage stamp in a befitting manner. 

            It may be recalled that Mr. Badal has taken up the matter with the GoI to issue a commemorative postage stamp on Kuka Movement in recognition with its outstanding contribution and pioneer role in the national freedom struggle. 

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JAYANI HANDS OVER APPOINTMENT LETTERS TO 25 AYUARVEDIC MEDICAL OFFICERS AND 34 UPVAIDS

 

·        DEPARTMENT TO FILL 361 VARIOUS POSTS IN THE DEPARTMENT

·        BABA FARID UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES TO CONDUCT WRITTEN TEST

 

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 3:

            Punjab Health Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani handed over appointment letters to 25 Ayuarvedic Medical Officers & 34 Upvaids here today.

            Speaking on the occasion Mr. Jayani said that to strengthen the Ayurvedic wing of Health Department and Punjab Government has recruited 151 Ayurvedic Medical Officers. Punjab Government has taken this initiative to strengthen Indian Medical System in the state, added Jayani.

            He said that demand for the free medicine supply at all Ayurvedic dispensaries has increased very fast. He said that the daily average patients coming for treatment at the dispensaries has gone from 15 to 35.

            Minister said that in the state 200 Primary Health Centres, 5 Ayurvedic Hospitals, 7 Indian System of Medicines (ISM) wings & Panchkarma Centre at Mohali are being equipped with latest Ayurvedic facilities and infrastructure is also being strengthened. He said that department plans to establish 12 specialty clinics in Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and seven new Indian System of Medicines (ISM) wings in the district hospitals of Mansa, Patiala, Kapurthala, Moga, Muktsar, Faridkot and Fatehgarh Sahib.

            Mr. Husan Lal, Commissioner, Ayush giving details said that 361 more posts are being filled in the department and advertisement has already been issued in this regard. He added that Baba Farid University of Health Sciences would soon conduct written test for these posts.

            Other prominent present on the occasion included Dr. Rakesh Kumar Director, Ayurvedic Department, Dr. Bakhshish Singh, Joint Director, Ayurveda, Punjab and senior officers of the Department.

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NO INTEREST BE IMPOSED ON PAYMENT OF OUT STANDING BILLS OF HOUSE TAX: ANIL JOSHI

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 3:

In a big relief to the urban population of the state the Punjab Government today allowed the citizen to pay the outstanding bill of house tax without any penalty. This facility would be applicable up till March 31, 2014. It was disclosed by Mr. Anil Joshi, Minister for Local Bodies, in a press communiqué here today.

Mr. Joshi said that the consumers in order to avail this benefit have to deposit the out pending bills up to March 31, 2014. He further said that written instruction in this regard has already been dispatched to all the commissioner of the Municipal Corporations, Regional Deputy Directors of the Local Urban Bodies and Executive Officers of the all Nagar Councils and Panchayats. “The officers have also been told to sensitize the public about the initiative of the Government, so that more and more people can avail this opportunity”, the Minister added.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT APPEALS TO NURSES TO RETURN TO WORK

Chandigarh, March 3: Nurses working on contractual basis in the Department of Medical Education & Research Department out of which some nurses are on strike due to which patients in the governement hospitals/ institutions are suffering. This is also badly affecting the facilities being provided to the patients in these instituions and hospitals.

Chief Minister Punjab had meeting on 18/11/13 with the organisation of nurses working on contractual basis in which it was decided to to increase annual increment from 10% to 33% which would be given for the coming three years and these nurses would be regularised after this period. This aggrement would be implemented after the instructions date of issuing instructions.  

Disclosing this Punjab Government official said that to give 33% increment is under consideration and instructions would soon be issued regarding this.

He said that High Court has asked to submitt a report regarding the policy to regularising under the ongoing case CWP NO. 13828/2013 and this matter is in the court. Spokesperson said that Punjab Government is committed for the welfare their employees and has always safeguarded the intrestsd of the employees. He added that due the matter pending in the court at this point government could not take decission on demand of regularising.

Spokesperson further said that Punjab Government has appealed to the employees of Medical Education & Research Department to immidately  return to their duty keeping in view the Public intrest. He added that if these employes do not return to duty by 7th March, 2014 than agreement dated 18/11/13 would not be implemented on them.

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COMPLETE TRANSFORMATION OF RURAL AND URBAN PUNJAB WITH RS. 3600 CRORE INFUSION IN NEXT 2 YEARS-SUKHBIR BADAL

 

·        SAD-BJP TO CONTEST ENSUING ELECTIONS ON DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

CHANDIGARH MARCH 2:

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today said Punjab was set for massive development in the next two years with a Rs 3,600 crore infrastructure infusion for both rural and urban areas having been finalised by the SAD- BJP government.

Disclosing this in a statement here, Mr. Badal said Punjab would become the number one state in the country on all fronts soon with the SAD- BJP government going in for complete transformation of all basic amenities in the entire State.

The Deputy CM informed that in the first phase 52 towns would witness an up gradation in civic amenities with Rs 3,600 crore being earmarked for potable water, sewage, sewerage treatment plants, concrete roads and street lights.

Expediting the pace of development in Punjab, the Deputy Chief Minister laid a number of foundation stones of the various development projects across the State last month. These include 23 Sewerage Treatment Plants and Water Supply schemes in various cities and towns, installation of RO Plants to ensure safe drinking water to the rural areas, Railway Over Bridges at Sri Muktsar Sahib and Bathinda, Group Housing Project in Bathinda, New Bus Terminals at Faridkot and Bassi Pathana, an exclusive Neo Natal Hospital equipped with all the hi-tech machinery at Kotkapura, a dozen 66 KV Sub Stations and a Degree College in the State.

Mr Badal said Punjab, which had made the country self-reliant on the food security front, had now achieved the unique distinction of becoming self-reliant in power besides the best road and air-connectivity, world class infrastructure in all sectors and online citizen centric services.

The Deputy CM asserted that the recently held progressive Punjab investment summit and Agriculture summit had attracted big honchos to the state and set the pace to make Punjab an ultimate industrial and IT destination and foremost state in agricultural diversification.

Adding further he said that SAD-BJP alliance has a sole agenda of development and would contest the Lok Sabha polls on the plank of development alone. Mr. Badal said the congress was trying to woo the voters with false propaganda regarding state's fiscal health and development front but the people knew the reality and would vote to usher in NDA rule in the forthcoming parliamentary elections. EOM

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT PROPOSES REGULAR PAY SCALES FOR ANMs & NRHM EMPLOYEES

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 1:

          Some of the staff working on contract in the Department of Health & Family Welfare has gone on strike putting a bad effect on health care services. Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal met and discussed the matter with various representatives of the employees. Thereafter, during the Cabinet meeting held on 24th February 2014, it was decided that ANM’s kept on contract basis against 1151 posts may be paid salaries at par with the regular employees subject to the condition that Central Government gives its due share of 75% for same. It was disclosed by an official spokesman of Health Department.

          The spokesman said that Cabinet also directed that proposal may be prepared for providing salaries to all NRHM employees at par with regular employees and send the same to Government of India for providing its 75% share in it. It was observed that with the implementation of this decision contractual ANM presently getting salary of Rs.6000 per month (with 5% annual increment) would get a salary of above Rs.20,000 per month. Similarly other employees of NRHM would be benefited.

           Further as per the CWP No 13828 of 2013 pending in the Hon’ble High Court, wherein directions have been given by Court to submit the records pertaining to regularization policy, and the matter is Sub-Judice. Punjab Govt. has further assured the employees that it is serious about the demands of regularization of employees, however as the matter is Sub-Judice, a decision to this effect cannot be taken. The Government further made an appeal to all the employees on strike that they should immediately resume their duties keeping in mind the general public interest. If such employees do not join back their duties by 7th March 2014, then the decision of the Cabinet would not be applicable on them.

 

 

SUKHBIR BADAL KICKS-START FIRST PHASE OF IT REVOLUTION IN PUNJAB

·        LAYS FOUNDATION STONE OF INFOSYS CAMPUS AT IT CITY MOHALI

·        PUNJAB TO BECOME MOST FAVOURED AND RIGHT IT DESTINATION OF NATION

·        INFOSYS TO INVEST Rs. 425 CRORE IN FIRST PHASE-NARAYANA MURTHY

 

MOHALI/CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 22: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today set the stage for information technology revolution in Punjab by laying foundation stone of IT giant Infosys Campus at IT City Mohali and said it would change the economics of Punjab besides creating more than 20,000 job opportunities.

           Describing today a historic day for Punjab in the presence of Mr. N.R. Narayana Murthy, Founder and Executive Chairman of Infosys, Mr. Badal thanked the Infosys, a global leader in IT technology and solutions, to set up its big ever IT Campus here, which will be a ‘feeder’ to IT related industries by catering the needs of entire north India leaving big impact on employment generation. “It was my long pending dream to bring IT revolution in Punjab by making it most favoured IT destination of the country and we can realize it today with the landing of Infosys to Punjab” said he adding we have achieved our target to have Infosys Campus in the state only within 100 days of meeting with Mr. Murthy at Bengaluru. “It was just because the positive approach of Punjab Government and fastest delivery of approvals and permissions for setting up of new industrial units” said Mr Badal.

          Deputy CM said that besides Infosys 26 IT companies have already been given the land allotment letters to setting up of their units in IT City premises. Adding further he said Mohali would be the top IT destination in the country after Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Gurgaon since high living cost and congestion in these cities as Mohali will be the best option in present IT scenario. He said IT City Mohali was just 5 kilometer away from Mohali Airport, half an hour far from Educity and Medicity being setup in well planned New Chandigarh. 

          The Deputy CM said in view of IT era, the Punjab Government has implemented e-district project to enable the citizens to get their required services at their doorsteps on a single click on computer and in coming one year Punjab would be the first state to have paperless working in all government offices.  He said this first Infosys campus in Punjab at SAS Nagar would be spread over 50 acres of land and would generate more than 20000 job opportunities. 

          In his address Mr. Murthy lauded the industry friendly approach of Punjab Government and said state has done a commendable job in developing Mohali as an investment destination with its new industrial policy and world class infrastructure. He said Infosys was grateful to dynamic and visionary Punjab CM Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy CM Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal for extending all cooperation and support to establish Infosys at IT City Mohali.  He said in the first phase Infosys would make an investment of Rs. 425 crore to create a built-up area of 6.5 lakh sq. feet to seat 5,000 software professionals within 24 months.

          Prominent amongst others present on the occasion included Rakesh Singh Chief Secretary, Karan Avtar Singh, Principal Secretary Industries, C.Roul, Principal Secretary Governance Reforms, A. Venu Prasad, Secretary Housing, Anirudh Tiwari, Secretary Power and CEO PBIP, Vikas Partap, Director Industries, Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Ajay Mahajan both Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM and Jangveer Singh Media Advisor to Deputy CM.

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PUNJAB TO BE ONLINE NOT INLINE WITHIN ONE YEAR-SUKHBIR BADAL

·        LAUNCHES ‘PUNJAB STATE PORTAL’ FOR CITIZEN SERVICES AND INFORMATION RELATED TO ALL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS

·        DELIVERY OF SERVICES BE PROVIDED ONLINE AND BY POST AT DOORSTEPS OF CITIZENS

·        FIRST STATE TO HAVE 147 CITIZEN SERVICES UNDER RTS

CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 22: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today declared that Punjab would be the first state in the country to have 147 citizen services under RTS to be provided online and citizen could access the delivery of services anywhere, anytime. He was here to launch single point access Punjab State Portal to provide all government services and information related to various departments by a single click on www.punjab.gov.in. 

     Launching the State Portal and State Service Delivery Gateway project here under e-Governance Plan, Mr. Badal said this project will fulfill the vision of providing easy and convenient services to the citizens through remote access from home or Gram Suwidha Kendras. He said three key components of the State Portal were - State Service Delivery Gateway, Electronic Forms (“e-forms”), Application and Computing Infrastructure.

Giving information about the Portal, Mr. Badal said the portal would provide 32 high volume citizen services in the first phase and all 147 citizen services to be integrated with the portal within 9 months. He said the key services would be Pensions including old age, widow, handicap, dependent children etc, Schemes namely National Family Benefit Scheme, Shagun Schemes, Scholarships including post-matric to SC/BC students, Term loan to SC/BC  besides having major services of Birth/Death/caste/residence certificates and Marriage Registration. He said citizen can also avail the services related to ration card and Right to Information.

Reiterating his vision to minimize the interaction of common masses with public servants by educating people about Right to Service Act, Mr. Badal said there was only one solution to wipe out corruption that was to reduce the interaction between general public and public offices by providing all citizen services through online system.  He said with the starting of this unique portal the citizen can get their required government documents and information just in a single click on computer. He said this portal will also include availability of online ‘e-repository’ of Government information and services besides having direct access to all government services with receiving SMS alerts to know the status of their application. Mr. Badal informed the delivery of service required by citizens would be provided online vis-à-vis by post at their doorsteps to promote ‘e-interaction’ between citizens and government. He said that portal would also have a provision of integration with payment gateway to facilitate online payments by the citizens. He said that project is being launched at State, District, Tehsil and Village level by providing computing infrastructure, internet connectivity to more than 600 government offices.  

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion Mr. C. Roul, Principal Secretary Governance Reforms, Mr. TPS Sidhu, Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary, Mr. Jangveer Singh, Media Advisor to Deputy CM and Mrs. Amanjot Kaur Ramoowalia, Chairperson District Planning Committee.

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SUKHBIR DEDICATES 108 NEWLY CONSTRUCTED SAANJH KENDRAS TO THE PEOPLE OF PUNJAB

ü     REITERATES HIS COMMITMENT TO CHANGE PUBLIC PERCEPTION ABOUT POLICE BY ENSURING COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

ü     PAKISTAN AND UNION GOVERNMENT FOLLOWING THE CONCEPT OF “SAANJH KENDRA”

ü     WITHIN A YEAR-NO “INLINE” BUT “ONLINE” SERVICE DELIVERY OF CITIZEN SERVICES  

ü     STERN ACTION WOULD BE TAKEN AGAINST THE ERRING OFFICIALS FOR AMRITSAR INCIDENT 

Ludhiana, February 22:

Implementing the concept of community policing coupled with unique governance reforms in true spirit, the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today dedicated 108 new Saanjh kendras (3 at Sub-Divisional Level and 105 at Police Station level) constructed at the cost of Rs. 15.50 crore by symbolically inaugurating a Saanjh Kendra here at Model Town.

Today presiding over a state level function held at Nehru Sidhant Kendra, Mr. Badal reiterated his commitment to change the public perception about police functioning and said that the setting up of these Saanjh Kendras was aimed at providing various police related services to the public in a corporate look centre and that too in a prescribed time frame.

He said that “when I assumed office as the Home Minister of Punjab, people scared to go Police Stations and I had decided to change the perception about police with administrative reforms in Punjab Police functioning.” 

Terming the Saanjh Kendras as the biggest success of SAD-BJP government, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Pakistan and Indian Union Government were following the lines of Punjab in this regard as a team from Pakistan is coming to read out the concept and functioning of these kendras where as Union Government has decided to make it a part of planning. He said that when the chief Minister of Punjab (Pakistan) Mian Shabaj Sharif visited Punjab during the World Kabbadi Cup than he had visited the saanjh Kendra at Ludhiana.

Promising a paperless administration in a year, Mr. Badal said that till the end of 2014, Punjab would be the first state having the “Online” service delivery instead of “Inline” as process has been started for E-District projects across the Punjab from Mansa and Mohali. He said that “some people talked about Lok Pal to eliminate corruption, but I think Lok Pal alone would not be able to wipe out this disease and we have to computerized the whole system”. He said that “ corruption happened when common man came into the contact of Government officials but if Governments could provide all services online than there would be interaction between people and Government officials, resulting in the end of corruption”.

The Deputy Chief Minister has also said that Punjab Government has decided to change the irrelevant laws implemented by the Britishers as now these are only the “speed breakers” to the Development process of the state.   

 He informed that the at present, 3085 police persons were working in the Saanjh Kendras and have been given special training in soft skills. Besides this, public has also been given due representation and committees have been formed at all Saanjh Kendras in which 1277 public persons were members, he added.

Mr. Badal said that the SAD-BJP government in year 2013-14 budget had earmarked Rs. 15.50 crore for setting up of these 108 Saanjh Kendras and now the state have 254 Saanjh Kendras (93 at Sub-Divisional Level and 161 at Police Station level).

            He revealed that through Saanjh Kendras, public has been provided delivery of 27 police related services out of which 22 are under the Right to Service Act, 2011. Till date, over 25 lakh applications for various services have been received at Saanjh Kendras, out of which, over 99.63% have been delivered within the prescribed time limit.

The Deputy Chief Minister has also honoured the 7 Officials  who had played the major role in the success story of Saanjh Kendras, namely IPS Kuldeep Singh, IPS Paramjit Singh Gill, IPS Harsh Bansal, ASI Darbara Singh, Pritpal Singh CEO, Harwinder Singh and Daljeet Singh both Architects. It was also announced by the Deputy Chief Minister that Punjab Government would hounoured the dedicated police personals on Independence Day for dedicated service in citizen service delivery.

Later replying to a question about the Amritsar incident, The Deputy Chief Minister said that “it was very unfortunate and a stern action would be taken against the erring officials”. He said that “these kinds of acts would not be tolerated by the Punjab Government”.

Talking about the presence of AAP in Punjab, Mr. Badal said that “in Democracy everybody has a right to fight election and I want to say “Best of Luck” to all of them”.   

Earlier speaking on the occasion, Mr. SK Sharma, ADGP/HRD & Community Affairs informed that the concept of Community Policing took roots in Punjab Police in the year 2010-11 when the Government allocated Rs.30 crores for Saanjh Project. In the first phase, 82 Saanjh Kendras at Sub-Divisional level and 35 at Police Station level were dedicated to the public by the Deputy Chief Minister S.Sukhbir Singh Badal, in a State Level function at Amritsar on 17.10.2011. after that  few more Saanjh Kendras were completed bringing the total to 90 Saanjh Kendras at Sub-Divisional level and 56 at Police Station level.

Prominent amongst present on the occasion included Former Minister Hira Singh Gabria and Media Advisor to Deputy Chief Minister Punjab, Mr. Jangveer Singh.  

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CM GIVES APPROVAL TO APPOINT SUKESH KALIA AS THE VICE CHAIRMAN OF PUNJAB STATE COMMISSION FOR PROTECTION OF CHILD RIGHTS  

Chandigarh, February 22-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave his nod to appoint BJP leader Mr. Sukesh Kalia as the Vice Chairman of Punjab State Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that the file pertaining to the appointment of Mr. Kalia was cleared by the Chief Minister, this morning. The formal orders regarding this appointment would be issued soon, added the spokesperson.   

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DISTRICT PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, BATHINDA

DEVELOPMENT TO BE SAD-BJP POLL PLANK- HARSIMRAT

LAYS STONES OF PROJECT WORTH RS. 33 CRORES

BATHINDA, FEBRUARY 22

BATHINDA MEMBER Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that development, prosperity and the SAD-BJP government's performance would be the major poll planks of the Akali- BJP alliance in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

While speaking to media-persons at Civil Hospital after inaugurating newly constructed building of 50 bed Maternity hospital, Harsimrat said,  "The SAD-BJP government worked with the single-minded aim of developing Punjab. The state has made massive strides in power, infrastructure and administrative sectors, besides maintaining peace and communal harmony,"

     On Saturday, MP launched as many 27 development projects worth Rs.33.76  Crore in the district, which include seven  Water works Schemes, Up-gradation of 10 schools from the next academic session, laying of foundation stone of new purchase centers and the foundation stones of development projects in Talwandi Sabo assembly segment villages.

      She said the government was looking after interests of all sections of society.     "Punjab's prosperity and development have been on top of our agenda.  Our vision is to see Punjab become self reliant in all respects. We want the rural and urban areas to flourish alike. We have ensured speedy development in rural areas and changed the face of major cities, besides establishing key infrastructure projects," the MP added.

     She said a concerted drive to ensure clean water supply, sewerage system and other basic amenities had been initiated and  the state government was committed to upgrade the standards of living of residents .

     Triggering the guns at Congress led UPA government Harsimrat Kaur Badal said   that Manmohan Singh's government failed to curb

Corruption, price rise and inflation. She said that the incumbent PA government at the centre was stalling the projects of the state and was not even giving its legitimate share in the taxes.

     She urged the people to vote for SAD-BJP to win all 13 seats of Lok Sabha in Punjab in order to give major fillip to the development of the state by forming NDA government at the centre. "If the strong and decisive Mr. Narendra Modi becomes the Prime Minister of the country then it will benefit Punjab in a big way and bring an end to discriminatory rule of Congress," she added.

     To another question, Harsimrat blamed  Congress led UPA government for deliberately stalling the important developmental projects of huge public importance, which  were hanging in fire despite the completion of the entire work just because the Union government was not granting the permission to operationalise them.

       Citing an example she said the total civil work of the Bathinda Air port has been completed but the Union Civil Aviation Ministry was not granting the permission for starting the flights from it. "After the formation of NDA government in next three months, we will inaugurate the Airport on priority," she promised.

     Prominent among those accompanied MP include Health Minister Surjit Kumar Jiyani,  Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sarup Chand Singla, Deputy Commissioner Kamal Kishor Yadav, SSP Gurpreet Singh Bhullar,  Bathinda Rural MLA, Darshan Singh Kotfatta, Talwandi Sabo halqa in-charge Balbir Singh Sidhu among others.

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SUKHBIR BADAL TERMS CONGRESS AS BIGGEST ENEMY OF PUNJAB, DEVELOPMENT AND SANGAT DARSHANS

·  CONGRESS SPRINKLING SALT ON SIMMERING WOUNDS OF 1984 RIOT VICTIMS BY HALTING JUSTICE AND SHIELDING PRIME MOVERS

·  NDA TO PUT INDIA ON FASTEST PACE OF DEVELOPMENT

·  INITIATES DEVELOPMENT WORKS WORTH Rs. 18 CRORE

·  APPROVES BRICKLINING OF ALL DHANIS

MOHAR SINGH WALA (JALALABAD), FEBRUARY 21: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today termed the Congress party as the biggest enemy of Punjab, its development, sangat darshans as well as democracy in the country which will lead to its ‘political fag end’ in ensuing Lok Sabha polls and decimation of congress was inevitable.

Lashing out at Congress led UPA Government for its inimical attitude towards Punjab and its people, the Deputy CM said it would be imperative for country to show the exit to Congress Party for its anti-people and anti-development attitude towards Punjab as it believes in opportunistic politics by throwing away the interests of common masses. Mr. Badal said formation of NDA at Center was need of the hour to witness fastest pace of development since Congress has ruled the country for more than six decades but left the country in the hands of corruption that’s why people believe corruption cannot be eliminated. He said Congress and Corruption was the same thing, which has been following each other since independence and the time has come to brush-aside both from country.

“Without leader and policies, the Congress party is in severe crisis facing rampant infighting, indiscipline, which increased corruption manifold and biggest scams by leaving indelible scar on the face of country” said Mr. Badal.

Accusing Congress party for halting justice to the riot victims of 1984 Sikh pogrom, Mr. Badal said if Congress was really worried and having sympathy with riot victims, it should have never been behind the prime movers of Sikh carnage. He said it was the result of Congress aid to culprits of riots that justice has been halting even after for the last 30 years after country’s biggest genocide.  He said by halting the justice the Congress Party was sprinkling salt on the simmering wounds of riot victims for which it would have to pay in the ensuing elections.

Reiterating his top priority of development and making state frontrunner in all areas, Mr. Badal said NDA would take the country to zenith of development after coming to power whereas SAD-BJP government has realized massive strides under its ‘development mission’. He said if NDA comes to power the border issues of the state would also be resolved on priority basis including opening of international borders.

Initiating development works worth Rs. 18 crore, the Deputy CM laying foundation stones of modernization of two roads of village Hazara Ram Singh Wala and Santokh Singh Wala besides CC flooring of Aalamke, Dhandi Khurd, Dhani Phulla Singh and Dhani Hazara Singh vis-a-vis Government Senior Secondary School at Jalalabad, Mr. Badal said Jalalabad would be developed as model town with the availability of 100 percent basic amenities. He also heard the issues pertaining to 50 Panchayats and 15 wards of city resolving all on the spot by giving needful directions to concerned authorities.  Deputy CM also approved brick-lining project for all dhanis, which would be started from the next financial year. 

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion Mr. Sher Singh Ghubaya, Member Parliament, Mr. Satinderjit Singh Manta, constituency incharge and all leadership of SAD-BJP.

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VIGILANCE NABS PATWARI ACCEPTING BRIBE OF RS.6,000

 CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 21:

                        The Vigilance Bureau, Punjab (VB) has caught a Patwari red-handed with the bribe money of Rs.6,000 for mutation deed.

                        Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the VB said that the complainant Mr. Manjit Singh of Patti Bande di, Chola Sahib (Tarn Taran) complained that he approached Mall Halqa Bhurra Kohna Patwari Lakhwinder Singh to get the mutation (Inteqal) done of his ancestral land but he demanded Rs.10,000 as illegal gratification. After negotiation the Patwari agreed to take Rs. 6,000.

                        The spokesperson further said that a trap was laid by Vigilance Bureau, Range Amritsar headed by DSP Mr. Manjit Singh Bhangu and a team of Inspector Mulkh Raj & other and the accused Manjit Singh was arrested red handed in his office at Patwarkhanna Khemkaran, while accepting bribe of Rs.6,000 from the complainant, which was recovered from him. The FIR against accused has been lodged under section 7, 13 (2) of Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 in Police Station-VB, Amritsar.

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CEO TO BE AVAILABLE FOR MEDIA FROM 4 T0 5 PM ON WORKING DAYS

 CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 21:

            Mr. V.K. Singh, Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab would be available to the media only between 4.00 to 5.00 pm on working days whenever he is in station.

            An official Spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Office, Punjab today said that the schedule has been changed keeping in view the administrative and functional requirements. He requested media persons to call on CEO only during scheduled meeting hour.

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ECI DIRECTOR GENERAL TO VISIT CHANDIGARH ON FEBRUARY 24

 CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 21:

            Mr. Akshay Raut, Director General, Election Commission of India is visiting Chandigarh for review meetings and workshop related to communication and SVEEP for Punjab, Haryanan and UT Chandigarh.

            Disclosing this here, an official Spokesperson of the Chief Electoral Office, Punjab said that the during DG visit on February 24, 2014, a media workshop on election regulations, paid news and Systematic Voters’ Education and Electors Participation (SVEEP) would be held at 10.30 am at Haryana Niwas, Chandigarh. He said that the Director General would also review SVEEP preparations with CEO and District Officials through Video Conference from New Civil Secretariat, Haryana at 2.30 pm besides the orientation workshop with MCMC members through video conference at same time. Mr. Raut would also preside over the meeting of the Partner Departments on SVEEP collaboration.

            The spokesperson further mentioned that the instructions have been issued to Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officers, District SVEEP Nodal Officers and members of the MCMC to attend the meeting, video conferences and workshop along with concerned officers.

 

SUKHBIR BADAL LAUNCHES 'RAHAT SCHEME'-PUNJAB TO BE FIRST 'INSPECTOR RAJ' FREE STATE OF THE COUNTRY

NO EXCISE AND TAXATION OFFICIAL WOULD INSPECT THE RECORD OR SHOPS OF TRADERS WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF COMMISSIONER

TRADERS MAY OPT FOR LUMP SUM TAX

TARN TARAN, FEBRUARY 20:

Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab with a vision to make Punjab first 'inspector raj' free state of the country launched 'Rahat Scheme'  for traders here under which traders may opted for lumpsum tax under three categories.

Presiding over a massive gathering of traders from the Majha region here at Tarn Taran, Mr Badal said this comprehensive scheme would provide a hasslefree platform to traders to opt for lump-sum annual taxes to get rid off from unnecessary record keeping and 'inspector raj'. He informed the gathering that new “Rahat scheme” has been launched for 74 cities across the state in which 24 falls in tier-1 and remaining in tier-2 and tier- 3. He said under this unique scheme traders may opt for lumpsum tax ranging annual turnover from Rs. 0-25 lakh to 1 crore buisness. The traders having annual Rs. 25 lakh would have to deposit Rs 5000 as lumpsm tax whereas from 25-50 lakh, it would be Rs 10000. Besides that from the range of Rs 50 lakh to 75 lakh the lumpsum tax would be Rs 15000 and up to one crore it would be Rs 20,000.

Launching toll free helpline for traders 18002582580 and mail id rahatscheme2014@gmail.com, Mr. Badal said traders can register their plaints, if any, directly on this number for proper implementation of Rahat Scheme. He said the registered traders would be facilitated by  accidental insurance cover of Rs. 2 lakh, cashless treatment up to Rs. 50000 and an insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh in case of any natural calamity.   

Reitrating his commitment to make Punjab No. 1 state in all spheres in the country Mr. Badal said Punjab has got the status of Power Surplus state and the rates of power would be cut down in coming time. He said within a week tube well connections of farmers to be released across the district besides blue card would also be distributed amongst beneficiaries. He also informed that Punjab has also finalised the blue print to connect all major roads in the state with 4/6 lane network since Rs. 15000 crore has been set aside for this purpose and within two years this project would be accomplished.

Expressing satisfaction over the successful hosting of Progressive Punjab Investment Summit and Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit, Mr. Badal said these initiatives of SAD-BJP Government have paved a way for industrial and agriculture revolution in Punjab. He said Infosys, ITC and Cargill have decided to setup their units in Punjab.

Mr. Badal also predicted that SAD-BJP government would definitley register massive victories on all 13 seats in Lok Sabha seats. He also gave a call to the electorates of Khaddor Sahib Constituency to cast their votes in favour of SAD-BJP candidate Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura to ensure his landslide victory.

Addressing the gathering Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura exhorted the traders to get full benefit of Rahat Scheme, which would provide a big relief from paper work and keeping records. He said this scheme would provide a boon for traders.

Meanwhile, Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia said that Rahat Scheme will eliminate the inspector raj besides saving precious time and energy of traders. He said all the traders community should come forward for proper implementation of this scheme. He also said that Punjab Government would leave no stone unturned for the all round development of Tarn Taran.

Mr. Anil Joshi, Local Bodies Minister, Mr. Harmeet Singh Sandhu, Mr. Sarup Chand Singla, both Chief Parliamentary Secretaries also spoke on the occasion. Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. Inderbir Singh Bolaria, MLA Mr. Baljit Singh Jalal Usma, Mr. Ravinder Singh Brahmpura, Chairman District Planning Board and Mr. Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal, Deputy Commissioner.   

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BADAL CALLS UPON JUDICIARY TO PLAY PRO-ACTIVE ROLE IN SOCIETY

INAGURATES BAR EXTENSION LIBRARY

EXHORTS LAWYERS TO DISCHARGE THEIR DUTIES WITH UTMOST PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT, DEDICATION AND SINCERITY IN THE LARGER PUBLIC INTEREST

ANNOUNCES GRANT OF RS 1 CRORE FOR THE BAR ASSOCIATION

 Chandigarh, February 20-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the legal fraternity to play a pro-active role in the society as judiciary, the executive and the legislature were the important organs of the state and have an obligation both to our Constitution and to people to work in complete harmony.

Addressing the lawyers of Punjab & Haryana High Court during the inaugural function of the extension of Bar library organized by the Punjab & Haryana Bar Association here at High Court complex, the Chief Minister said that each one of these organs had their Constitutional assigned role and these must be discharged in the right earnest. He said each organ must respect the roles and functions of the other and power accorded to each organ must be exercised cautiously. Mr. Badal further said that our judiciary, legislature, members of the bar, legal academia and scholars must therefore, be actively engaged in finding a meaningful and widely acceptable solutions to the social challenges of our times.

The Chief Minister said lawyers could play a vital role in getting justice and protection of one’s fundamental rights because access to justice was the Constitutional obligation. He also exhorted the legal fraternity especially the younger ones to discharge their duties with utmost professional commitment, dedication and sincerity in the larger public interest.

Mr. Badal appreciated Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court Justice Mr. Sanjay Krishan Kaul for initiating special efforts for curtailing the pendency of cases in the Punjab and Haryana High Court in order to ensure quick dispensation of Justice to the litigants. Reiterating that it was an endeavour of the state government to provide congenial atmosphere to the judiciary and lawyers to discharge their duties efficiently, he assured the Chief Justice that the state government would provide all financial assistance and cooperation for the construction of judicial complexes and lawyers’ chambers in the state besides the recruitment of Judicial officers. Mr. Badal also impressed upon the Chief Justice to take up the matter of the release of pending matching grants by the Government of India (GoI) with the concerned quarters. The Chief Minister mentioned that on the demand of Bar association the state government had already created a Advocate Welfare Fund to safeguard the interests of legal fraternity.

On the occasion, the chief Minister also announced a grant of Rs 1 crore to the Bar Association.

Addressing on the occasion Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court Justice Mr. Sanjay Krishan Kaul lauded the Chief Minister for showing special concern for the welfare of the Judiciary.

In his address Advocate General, Punjab Mr. Ashok Aggarwal strongly pleaded the case of Bar Association and urged Mr. Badal to consider their demand of housing sympathetically.

Speaking on the occasion, President Punjab & Haryana Bar Association Dr. Anmol Rattan Sidhu felicitated Mr. Badal for his magnanimity and passion for the welfare legal fraternity. He mentioned Mr. Badal was a true visionary and was sensitized to the problems of common man because he was the leader of the masses. Dr. Sidhu also pointed out that Mr. Badal’s popularity as a mass leader was evident from the fact that he has adored the seat of Chief Minister of Punjab for the record fifth term.

The function was attended by the Hon’ble Judges of the Punjab & Haryana High Court, former Judges, members of the Punjab & Haryana High Court Bar Association & bar council and lawyers besides Advocate General of Haryana Mr. Hawa Singh Hooda and eminent businessman and philanthropist Mr. SP Singh Oberoi.

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 Rahul has no regret for 84 Sikh genocide- Sukhbir Badal

Rs. 2500 crore to be spent on Amritsar development works

SAD to fight Lok Sabha election on development agenda

 BRTS project Approved for Amritsar- To be kicked off during next week

Swarankar community would be included in OBC category by NDA Government

 Sensing defeat from Amritsar PPCC looking for an outsider-Majithia

Amritsar, February 20:

          Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said that Congress Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi has no regret and sympathy towards the victims of Congress sponsored 84 Sikh genocide even after confession of direct involment of Congress leaders in Delhi massacre against Sikhs and he lacks  dare to take any action against his party leaders.

          Today after addressing a rally in Amritsar South assembly segment along with the BJP Presdent Mr. Kamal Sharma, Revenue and Public Relations Minister l Punjab, Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia and Local Bodies Minister Mr. Anil Joshi, Deputy Chief Minister said that Rahul was deeply worried over the decision of Supreme court to commute death sentence into life imprisonment of killers of his father, but he has no regret and sorrow in his heart for the 5000 Sikhs killed by the congress perpetrators in a planned strategy. He said that the intentions of Mr. Gandhi about Sikhs was reflected in a way the killers of Sikhs were being sheltered by congress vice president.

          Talking about the poll agenda of SAD-BJP , Mr. Badal said that Akali Dal and BJP has single point agenda which is Development as people want development, not any kind of false promises as always made by the congress. Replying to a query about the role of AAP in Punjab, the Deputy Chief Minister said that in democracy everybody was welcomed  to fight elections but the newly born party have no impact in Punjab.Mr. Badal has also said that as per the tradition Akali Dal has announced their candidates much prior to other and the remaining candidates would be announced very shortly.
          Earlier addressing a mammoth gathering after  laying the foundation stone of development works of Rs. 285 crore, Mr. Badal informed the people that the BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) has been sanctioned for Amritsar which would be initiated in a week as tender had already been invited for the project. It may be mentioned here that BRTS would be implemented on the pattern of Istanbul (Turkey) in Amritsar with the cost of Rs. 500 crore. Talking about the Development of Amritsar, Mr. Badal said that “I am personally monitoring the development projects of the holly city on monthly basis as it was my mission and vision.”He said that the development projects of Rs. 2500 crore in the pipeline which would ensure the facelift of city in next 2 years.
          On the demand of CPS Mr. Inderbir Singh Bolaria to include the “Swarankar Community” in OBC category, Mr. Badal said that it was under the jurisdiction of Union Government and after the formation of NDA Government in centre it would be the done in one month.
         

Calling upon the people to come forward for the formation of NDA government under the leadership of Mr. Modi, The Deputy Chief Minster said that “the coming Lok Sabha polls will not to be fought to gain the power but  to save the country from the most corrupt ,inefficient ,directionless and leaderless UPA government”.

          Promising hassle free service delivery and paperless administration to the common man in next 6 months, the Deputy Chief Minister said that all 147 services related to the common man would be provided online as all villages would be connected to 4G service with Rs. 4000 crore. He said that the process in this regard has been started from Mansa District which is going to become the first Online District of the country.
          On the demand for an under By pass at Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh Shaheed was also announced by the Deputy Chief Minister during the rally.

          Addressing the rally the Revenue Minister and Youth Akali Dal President, Mr. Bikraam Singh Majithia said that “workers of SAD-BJP would ensure the thumping victory of any candidate announced by the BJP for Amritsar Parliamentary Constituency”. Taking a dig at the PPCC, Mr. Majithia said that ”sensing a sure shot defeat from Amritsar Lok Sabha segment, Local leaders of congress were not even ready to get ticket from congress high Command and PPCC are looking for a outside candidate”. He said that there was a time when congress surpassed 400 marks in Lok Sabha but now in forthcoming elections the tally of congress would come under 100 first time in history.
          Earlier Local Bodies Minister, Mr. Anil Joshi was also addressed the rally. Local MLA from Amritsar South Constituency, Mr. InderBir Singh Bolaria has thanked the Chief Minister of Punjab, Mr. Parkash singh Badal, Deputy Chief  Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and Revenue Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia for ensuring the development of his constituency.

          President of Punjab BJP, Mr. Kamal Sharma has thanked the people for massive response to the rally.

Prominent amongst present on the occasion included MLA Baljeet Singh Jalalusma, Manjeet Singh Manna, Mayor Bakshi Ram Arora, BJP leader Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhinna, Tarun Chugh, Rajesh Gill, Upkar Singh Sandhu.          

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CM SEEKS SPECIAL RELAXATION FROM NABARD TO ALLOW ADDITIONAL COST ACCELERATION IN ONGOING PROJECTS

DEMANDS EXTENSION IN IMPLEMENTATION PERIOD OF FEW PROJECTS

SEEKS ASSISTANCE UNDER NIDA FOR UPGRADATION OF MILK PLANTS

PLEADS FOR ALLOWING CHANGE IN NATURE/ SCOPE WITHIN OVERALL SANCTIONED AMOUNT OF CERTAIN PROJECTS

NABARD CHAIRMAN TERMS PUNJAB AS A 'ROLE MODEL' FOR OTHER STATES IN TIMELY UTILIZATION OF SANCTIONED FUNDS

ASSURES CM TO CLEAR ALL THE PENDING ISSUES

Chandigarh, February 20-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the NABARD to allow additional cost acceleration in the ongoing projects as a relaxation to the state government being a special case as this border state had suffered the brunt of partition besides economic slowdown due to decade long militancy, which has subsequently relegated it from the top slot in terms of overall economic development.

          Taking part in deliberations in a meeting jointly attended by the state government officers and a high level delegation of NABARD led by its Chairman Dr. Harsh Kumar Bhanwala here at Punjab Bhawan this afternoon, the Chief Minister said that he was deeply indebted to NABARD for showing magnanimity in funding state's development projects on priority but still lot was to be done to further accelerate the tempo of all round growth of core sectors of Rural Development, Agriculture, Irrigation, Cooperation, Education and Power.

          The Chief Minister apprised Dr. Bhanwala that at present 50 projects with financial outlay of Rs 6000 crore were under active implementation. He said that during the current fiscal against Rs 495 crore, the state government has drawn Rs 269 crore and the balance Rs 266 crore would also be drawn well in time to ensure the optimum utilization of funds and the timely execution of development projects within the stipulated deadline. Mr. Badal however urged the NABARD Chief to grant extension in implementation period of few projects as the proposal has already been sent to its head office.

          The Chief Minister also sought liberal assistance under the NABARD Infra Structure Development Assistance (NIDA) especially for the upgradation of all its Milk plants across the state to enhance the milk handling capacity and processing facilities on one hand and maximize the profit of Dairy farmers supplying milk to these Milk plants through cooperative milk unions on the other. He also requested the Chairman NABARD for expeditious clearance of TRANSCO projects worth Rs 394 crore submitted to it under NIDA. Mr. Badal also pleaded for allowing change in nature/ scope within overall sanctioned amount of certain projects of school education, forest, irrigation etc. so that these projects could be completed within a time bound manner.

          Expressing a sense of gratitude and satisfaction over the maximum utilization of funds sanctioned by NABARD to the state, the Chairman NABARD said that Punjab was a 'role model' for other states in timely utilization of funds efficiently adding that this made Punjab eligible for getting more funds from it as 25% weightage was given on this count by the agency, while sanctioning additional funds in future sought by any state. 

          Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Dr. Bhanwala highly appreciated the development and advancement made by the state in the Cooperative bank sector as all the 20 CCBs of the state were on CBS platform facilitated by NABARD. He also called upon the state government to immediately allow online access to land records as also for online creation charge to the banks (Karnataka model) which would smoothen the process of credit flow to the farmers.  On this issue, the Chief Minister responded that this proposal has already been cleared by the state government and would be implemented shortly in the right earnest.   

          NABARD Chief assured Mr. Badal that all the pending proposals which needed clearance from them for the change in scope/ nature would be approved promptly to enable the state government to implement them. He also informed the Chief Minister that the NABARD has already constituted NABCONS- fully owned subsidiaries of NABARD, which had been undertaking various types of consultancy assignments for government and other including third party monitoring of GoI projects adding DR. Bhanwala impressed upon the Chief Minister to utilize the services of NABCONS for the implementation of various central projects efficaciously in a hassle free manner.

          The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Ministers Mr. Adaish Pratap Singh Kairon and Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Irrigation Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary Rural Development and Panchayat Mr. MS Sandhu, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. G Vajralingam, Principal Secretary Education Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tiwari, Secretary PWD Mr. PS Aujla, MD MILKFED Mrs. Alaknanda Dayal and Registrar Cooperative Societies Mr. AS Miglani.       

          The NABARD delegation comprised Chief General Manager Mr. Naresh Gupta, General Manager Mr. LR Ramachandran, General Manager Mr. MR Chandekar, Deputy General Manager Mr. SN Chalia, Deputy General Manager Mr. PN Satya Prasad, Assistant General Manager Mr. Sanjoy Ghosh and Manager Mr. Rakesh. 

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CPS VALTOHA HONOURS 29 PANCHAYATS FOR PROVIDING SAFE DRINKING WATER

·       Award prize money would be doubled from next year: Valtoha

·       3 state level and 26 district level awards wroth Rs.21.25 lacs given in the State level function

CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 20:

            Mr. Virsa Singh Valtoha, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Water Supply and Sanitation Department, Punjab today distributed cash awards worth Rs.21.25 lacs to 29 Gram Panchayats Water and Sanitation Committees (GPWSCs) for doing excellent work in providing safe drinking water to their villages in a state level function held here.

            Addressing the gathering, Mr. Valtoha said that the award function to honour such GPWSCs is held on annual basis and it is basically meant to motivate Panchayats to efficiently operate and maintain water supply schemes of their villages and always keep them financially and technically sustainable. He said that state level first prize of Rs.2 lacs was given to GPWSC Karirwali, district Faridkot, second prize of Rs.1.5 lacs to Pucca Khurd, district Bathinda and third prize of Rs.1 lacs bestowed to GPWSC of Dhandowal, district Jalandhar. He further said that the district level first prize worth Rs.75,000 was conferred to the villages Chahal Khurd (SBS Nagar), Majara (Ludhiana), Mallah (Faridkot), Katli (Ropar), Kularan (Patiala), Shabudeen (Hoshiarpur), Harrar Khurd (Amritsar), Mehma Sawai (Bathinda), Bhakarian (Kapurthala), Daun Majra (SAS Nagar), Burj Dhilwan (Mansa), Noorpur Hakima (Moga), Chhichrewal (Tarn Taran), Nussi (Jalandhar) and Munsiwala (Sangrur). Similarly, district level second prize worth Rs.50,000 was awarded to the villages Chak Mai Dass (SBS Nagar), Morouli (Ropar), Rampur Kalan (Patiala), Shabudin (Hoshiarpur), Khanpur Thaira (Hoshiarpur), Kahanpur (Fatehgarh Sahib), Dyalpur (Kapurthala), Khunni Majra (SAS Nagar), Jeon (Mansa), Shekha Khurd (Moga), Pandori Rehmana (Tarn Taran) and Jaitewali (Jalandhar). He further said that the prize money would be doubled from next year.

            CPS said that Water Supply & Sanitation Department with the assistance of World Bank has implemented ‘Punjab Rural Water Supply & Sanitation Project’ Schemes by adopting decentralized approach and funds are transferred to GPWSCs for implementing water supply schemes. He said that as per project concepts, after the completion of schemes, GPWSCs themselves operate and maintain their water supply schemes and all the expenses incurred towards it are met from the water charges collected from the users by GPWSCs. Mr. Valtoha said that water supply schemes have been implemented in 1208 villages upto 31stJanuary 2014. GPWSCs are operating and maintaining water supply facilities in these 1208 villages. Out of these 773 GPWSCs have already made the O&M of their schemes self sustainable and do not require any financial support from the Government.

            He said that any Panchayat in the State can complete for obtaining award if it fulfills the basic parameter of successful operation and maintenance of their scheme for the last more than one year on sustainable basis. The selection of award winning Gram Panchayats /GPWSCs is done by adopting transparent selection criteria. He mentioned that after assessing the successful implementation of ongoing World Bank assisted PRWSS project, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Government of India has recommended to Ministry of Finance, Government of India second PRWSS project costing Rs. 2200 crore for seeking financial assistance from World Bank. The Second Project besides upgrading the water supply service level in the villages also focuses on the implementation of sewerage schemes in 1000 villages of the State.

            In key note address, Financial Commissioner, Development cum Principal Secretary Water Supply & Sanitation Punjab Mr. Suresh Kumar informed that department has implemented water supply schemes in 6204 villages and 1555 small habitations around these villages. Now only 165 villages and 372 small habitations remains to be covered with water supply schemes and targeted for their coverage has been fixed as 30.06.2014.

            Mr. A.K. Soni, Chief Engineer cum Program Director, Mr. N.K. Dhir, Superintending Engineer cum Senior Programme, State level first prize winner Sarpanch Mr. Harcharan Singh Bath, Chairman, GPWSC and second prize winner Mr. Jasbir Singh, Sarpanch & Chairman, GPWSC also spoke on the occasion.

            Earlier, Nukkad Natak has also been played in which people sensitized about the proper utilization of drinking water and paying the bills in time.

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  BESTOW BHARAT RATNA AWARD ON MARSHAL OF THE AIR FORCE ARJAN SINGH : BADAL TO PM

DESCRIBES THIS RARE HONOUR AS A TRIBUTE TO VALOUR, DEDICATION AND SPIRIT OF SACRIFICE OF INDIAN ARMED FORCES

 CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 20:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, seeking his personal intervention to confer the award of Bharat Ratna on Marshal of the Air Force S. Arjan Singh as a befitting honour not only to the most deserving personality but also as a tribute to valour, dedication and spirit of sacrifice that symbolized the Indian Armed Forces.   

            In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr. Badal informed him that he had already proposed the name of S. Arjan Singh, Marshal of the Air Force for the award of Bharat Ratna.  He apprised the Prime Minister that S. Arjan Singh is the only living Five Star military officer besides the first Air Chief Marshal of Air Force when, in recognition of the Air Force’s stellar role in the 1965 war, the rank of the Chief of Air Staff was upgraded to that of Air Chief Marshal.  S. Arjan Singh is a proud recipient of Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), awarded in 1944 and Padam Vibhushan in 1965. 

            It may be recalled that S. Arjan Singh also served as Ambassador to Switzerland and Vatican and High Commissioner to Kenya.  He also has been member of Minority Commission and has served as Lt. Governor of Delhi from 1989 to 1990.

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 CM APPOINTS VICE CHAIRMEN IN FOUR BOARDS AND CORPORATIONS

PURSHOTAM ARORA, REENA JAITLEY, GEETESH GUPTA AND KHUSHWANT RAI APPOINTED AS VICE CHAIRMEN OF PSIEC, PSFDB, PKVIB AND PICTC

 CHANDIGARH FEBRUARY 20:

             Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today appointed four Vice Chairmen in the Punjab State Industries Export Corporation (PSIEC), Punjab State Forests Development Board (PSFDB), Punjab Khadi and Village Industries Board (PKVIB) and Punjab Information & Communication Technology Corporation Limited (PICTC). 

            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal appointed Mr. Purshotam Arora as Vice Chairman of Punjab State Industries Export Corporation (PSIEC), Smt. Reena Jaitley as Vice Chairman of Punjab State Forests Development Board, Mr. Geetesh Gupta as Vice Chairman of Punjab Khadi and Village Industries Board and Mr. Khushwant Rai Geega as Vice Chairman of Punjab Information & Communication Technology Corporation Limited. 

            The spokesperson further said that Mr. Badal cleared the file in this behalf late last evening and the formal orders in this regard would be issued in due course of time after the completion of requisite formalities. 

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          INVESTMENTS WORTH RS 2600 CRORE FIRMED UP IN PPAS

10 MOUS SIGNED WITH KEY PLAYERS AGRO AND FOOD PROCESSING SECTOR IN THE PRESENCE OF CM

MOVE TO SYNERGIZE AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT OF STATE BY BOOSTING PARALLEL INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

TOTAL INVESTMENT OF RS 14600 CRORE SUMMED UP AGRO AND FOOD PROCESSING SECTOR DURING PPAS AND PROGRESSIVE PUNJAB INVESTOR’S SUMMIT

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar, Mohali), February 19-

          To synergize the agriculture development in the state through propelling simultaneous industrial growth in the state’s predominantly agrarian economy, the Punjab Government today firmed up investment worth Rs 2600 crore by signing ten Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) in different fields of agriculture, Food processing and bio mass renewable energy during the valedictory function of the Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) -2014,

It might be recalled that that the Punjab Government had earlier firmed up total investment over Rs 65000 crore by signing 128 MoUs in the Progressive Punjab Investor’s Summit held in December 2014. Out of which 62 MoUs with an investment of Rs 12000 crore were signed between key players in the field of Agro and Food Processing and Punjab Government. With the signing of 10 new MoUs worth Rs 2600 crore today, the total number of MoUs in the Agro and Food Processing has gone up to 72 with a total investment of Rs 14600 crore.

Disclosing this today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that these MoUs were signed by Financial Commissioner Development (FCD) Mr. Suresh Kumar, on the behalf of state government, in the presence of the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and several other dignitaries’ besides key players in the Food and Agro Processing Industry.

  The spokesperson further said that a MoU for setting up of ‘Centre of Potato Expertise in Punjab’ was signed amongst the Government of Netherlands, Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) and Confederation of Potato Seeds Farmers (POSCON). Another MoU was signed between M/S P&R Agri Energy Private Limited and Punjab Government to establish 20 MW Biomass power project with an investment of Rs 125 crore. Another MoU between M/S Nextgen Solux Power Private Limited and Punjab government to set up 100 MW Solar power project at Fardikot and Abohar with an investment of Rs 800 crore was also signed. Likewise another MoU was inked between M/S Sampuran Agri Ventures Private Limited and Punjab Government to set up 30 MW Rice Straw based Biomethanation Power Projects at a cost of Rs 400 crore. Another MoU to set up nine projects for production of bio-ethanol from Rice Straw and other agriculture waste and Molasses at a cost of Rs 900 crore was inked between M/S Bio Echo Energy Private Limited and Punjab Government.

Another MoU was signed between MD Group and Government of Punjab as an innovative initiative to solve the Wheat and Rice waste problem on a sustainable economic model.  A MoU was signed between Mrs Bector Food Specialties’ Limited and Punjab government in Food Processing involving an investment of Rs 100 crore.

Three MoUs of Rs 20 crore each were signed between KTC Foods Private Limited, New Haryana Overseas, Navjyoti Agro food Private limited and Punjab government for Rice Milling having capacity of 12 Tons Per Hour (TPH), 8-10 TPH and 12 TPH respectively thereby summing up a total investment of Rs 60 crore.

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike and Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. GS Babbehali, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Canadian High Commissioner Mr. Stewart Beck and Secretary Agriculture Mr. KS Pannu.

Amongst the leading industrialist of the country include Director ITC Mr. Kursh Grant, CMD Bharti Agro Mr. Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Vice President Vardhman Group Mr. Kamal Oswal, CMD Trident- Group Mr. Rajinder Gupta and CEO KPMG Mr. Richard Rekhi. 

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 JAGROAN 'FATEH RALLY' WILL CHANGE THE POLITICAL LANDSCAPE OF NATION-SUKHBIR BADAL

·        PHOOLKA DESERVES NO COMMENTS

 Jagroan February 19-Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal today asserted that the 'Fateh Rally' at Jagroan on February 23 would "change the political landscape" of Nation and it would prove to be death knell the Congress party.

After taking stock of arrangements of Fateh rally along with Revenue Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia here today, Mr Badal said, "An unprecedented large crowd will turn up at Jagroan next Sunday to hear the BJP's prime ministerial candidate Mr Narendra Modi. Adding further he asserted that 'Fateh Rally' would go down in history as the biggest in the state and claimed that "there would be profound change in the political scenario of India after the rally."

Deputy CM said that people were visibly fed-up with the anti people and anti poor policies of the Congress Led UPA government in the centre, the people of India are desperate to get rid of the world’s most corrupt ruling Indian government. He affirmed that unparalleled rally held at Moga in December 2011 had changed the political scene by reelecting SAD-BJP government in Punjab, similarly the Fateh Rally would witness to transform the election panorama of our Nation.

Answering a query regarding APP candidate H.S. Phoolka's statement about no charging of fees for court cases from SGPC, Mr Badal said "He is not answerable to his assertions. Phoolka is no match for me in politics and to his stature to comment on his announcements". Mr Badal added that he was indulging in to gain publicity by resorting to such statements.

To another query about Youth Akali Dal leader Yadvinder Singh Yadu's involvement in Khanna murder case, Deputy CM clarified that it was not proven so far by any enquiry that he was equally involved in the murder of youth. "If his involvement was proven then law would take its own course and nobody be spared however high may be", adding he said that alleged stained persons were present in every party and no leader could be blamed for their own wrong doings.

Among others present on the occasion included Mr Sharnjit Singh Dhillon PWD Minister, Dr Daljit Singh Cheema, Joginder Pal Jain and S.R. Clair all MLA, Dinkar Gupta ADGP intelligence, Balwant Singh Ramuwalia former Union Minister, Jangveer Singh Media Advisor to Deputy CM and Gurcharn Singh Grewal Member SGPC.

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INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB

 

ADDITIONAL POST OF SECRETARY CREATED IN JALANDHAR, AMRITSAR AND LUDHIANA CORPORATION: JOSHI

CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 19:

The Punjab Government has created an additional post of secretary in the Municipal Corporations of Amritsar, Ludhiana and Jalandhar.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Anil Joshi, Minister for Local Bodies, Punjab said that the post has been created to facilitate the work of corporations which has been increased manifold due to the ever increasing boundaries of these metro cities. He said that the Punjab Government in a bid to better service delivery system in transparent manner, this secretary level post has been created.

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Schedule for RIMC Entrance Test announced

Chandigarh, February 19:

               The entrance examination for admission to the Rashtriya Indian Military College ( RIMC ), Dehradun for January, 2015 term would be conducted here at Lala Lajpat Rai Bhawan (Sector-15) on 1st(Sunday)& 2nd (Monday) June, 2014.

             Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Directorate Sainik Welfare, Punjab informed that only boys were eligible to apply for the admission. Candidates appearing for the test should not be born earlier than 2nd January, 2002 and not later than 1st July, 2003 . They should either be studying in Class VII or passed Class VII from any recognized school at the time of admission to the RIMC. Selected candidates will be given admission in Class-VIII. The written part of the examination would consist of three papers namely, English, Mathematics & General Knowledge and the viva-voce test would be held for only those candidates who qualify in the written exam and the date for the viva voce test has been fixed as on October 09, 2014 (Thursday).

             He informed that the copies of application forms, prospectus and set of old question papers could be obtained from the Commandant, RIMC, Dehradun on payment of Rs.400/- for registered post or Rs.450/- for speed post for General candidates and Rs.355/- for registered post or Rs.405/-  for speed post for SC/ST candidates through demand draft in favour of Commandant, RIMC, Dehradun payable at SBI Tel Bhavan (Code No.01576) Dehradun alongwith three passport size photographs of the candidate. Besides this, the candidate should furnish a certificate of age in duplicate from municipal birth register.

          He further said that the applications in duplicate duly completed must reach here at Directorate Sainik Welfare, Punjab before 31stMarch, 2014. Application received after 31-03-2014 will not be entertained.

 

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PUNJAB TO FOCUS ON OPENING WORLD MARKET TO STATE FARMERS – SUKHBIR BADAL

·        FOOD PARK TO BE ESTABLISHED NEAR KAPURTHALA AND CATTLE FEED PLANT AT BATHINDA

·        SEMEN BANK TO BE ESTABLISHED AT NABHA AT A COST OF Rs. 130 CRORE

CHAPPAR CHIRI (MOHALI), FEBRUARY 18:  Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today said the State was poised to usher in the next agri revolution with focus on technology driven agriculture which would open the world markets for the produce of the Punjab farmer.

Addressing a session on Investment in Food and Agriculture Processing at the Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit here, Mr Sukhbir Singh Badal said the State was ready to partner with farmers and institutions worldwide to enable Punjab farmers to upgrade their technology skills. He said the tripartite agreement between Universities of Punjab and Netherlands as well as progressive farmers of the State was a direction in this regard.

The Deputy CM stressed that the export of fruits and vegetables from Punjab was one of the top priorities of his government and that it would work to increase export of Kinnow fruit as well as frozen vegetables. He said simultaneously farmers would be encouraged to go in for innovate agri practices including direct seeding of paddy to save water as well as initiatives in the Animal Husbandry sector which were aimed at increasing the milk yield of small farmers.

           Answering a query regarding Food Processing, Mr. Badal said Punjab was focusing on food processing and that the new investment policy had already resulted in companies like ITC and Cargill deciding to establish processing facilities in Punjab. He said ITC is being setting up Rs. 800 crore Food Park  near Kapurthala, which will cater the food processing requirements of North Region while Cargill will establish country one of the biggest maize based Cattle Feed Plant at Bathinda.

           Answering another query Mr. Badal informed there were 400 companies directly related to agriculture sector showcased their products, out of which more than 50 were international companies based at Netherland, Italy, Taiwan, United Kingdom etc. When asked about the high quality breeds of cattle in Punjab, Mr. Badal said Punjab is coming with a world class Semen Bank at Nabha at a cost of Rs. 130 crore and land for this purpose has already been earmarked.  

 Bharti group Vice Chairman Rakesh Bharti Mittal praised the initiatives being taken by the Punjab government on the agri processing front, saying his company itself was a beneficiary since it had been granted 300 acres of land near Ludhiana to set up a vegetable processing hub. He suggested changes in the agricultural policy to allow farmers to sell their fruits and vegetables to private players directly.

 Pepsico Executive Director Vivek Bharti said agri processing was set to get a boost with the Punjab government providing the right atmosphere for establishment of processing units. He urged private players to set up shop in Punjab, saying his company was procuring 70,000 tones of potato annually.

 Others who spoke on the occasion included      Achyuth Iyengar from Cargill, N S Brar from Agro Foods, Saraswati Sugar Mill’s Chairman Mr. Ranjit Puri, Nahar Group MD Mr. Kamal Oswal and Rajinder Gupta of Trident group. Others present included chief parliamentary secretary Mr. N.K. Sharma, Secretary Industries Mr. Karan Avtar Singh and Mr. Vivek Partap Singh, Director Industries. EOM

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DOMESTICATE LOCAL BREED OF ANIMALS FOR COMMERCIAL DAIRY FARMING: EXPERTS SUGGEST

·       Asks farmers to domesticate dwarf mulching cows of New Zealand instead of American-Canadian breed

·       Experts urge to set up Semen plants in Punjab

CHAPPAR CHIRI (SAS NAGAR), FEBRUARY 18:

             On the third day ‘Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit-2014’, experts from across the country suggested the farmers of the state to domesticate local breed of milching cows for commercial dairy farming.

            In the Seminar ‘Commercial Dairy Farming; Development and Possibilities’ held under the chairmanship of Dr. K.L.M. Pathak, Deputy Director General of National Agriculture Research Council (NARC), Dr. Kusmakar Sharma, ADG, HRD, NARC said that the milk productivity is directly proportional to the standard of fodder being supplied to the cattle. He said that the 70 to 80 per cent price of the product being made from the milk depend upon on the quality of fodder. He further said that farmers should minutely look after the fodder for nearly four month after the insemination of the milch cattle.

On the Subject of quality product, Dr. A.S. Nanda, Former Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Govt. of India spoke on the issue of breed improvement, insemination, cross breeding etc. He specifically asked the farmers to promote the local breed. He said that due to the global climate change and increase of temperature, it is hard to rare to foreign breed of milch cattle so if the authorities promote local Sahiwal, Neeli Ravi and Muraah breeds in proper and scientific manner then these local breeds can definitely match the quality and productivity of the foreign breeds in next 20-25 years. He informed that foreign breeds especially American and Canadian graze much fodder due to their built whereas cattle from India and New Zealand graze comparatively less fodder as they are dwarf. Dr. Nanda further stressed on the need of setting up semen plants in India because the exports of semen is much costlier. He said that silage system is the key to promote the quality and quantity of the fodders.

Veterinary expert from Netherland Dr. Josefin Varige, Dr. G.R. Patil, Joint Director (Academic), National Dairy Research Organization, Karnal, and Progressive farmers Mr. Daljit Singh and Mr. Sukh Harpreet Singh Rode also spoke on the variety of issues related to the health and hygiene of milch cattle besides producing high quality fodder.

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 EXPERTS ADVOCATES FUTURISTIC AGRICULTURAL MARKETING COUPLED WITH EFFECTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT MECHANISM

v MARGINAL FARMERS NEED MORE SUPPORT

v SUGGESTS COLLECTIVE MARKETING AT VILLAGE LEVEL

 Chapparchiri/Mohali/Chandigarh, February 18: Agri-experts from all over the country today underlined the need for futuristic agricultural marketing coupled with effective risk management during a brain storming session on Agricultural Marketing and Risk Management held here under the chairmanship of Dr. B.S.Dhillon, Vice- Chancellor, PAU at Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit. 

Initiating the discussion, the Chairman said that the model of collective marketing and usage of machinery was must for the farming sector to reduce its agri input costs. Making a detailed presentation, Dr. Rameh Chand, Director, National Centre for Agricultural Economics and Policy Research pointed out that during 2004-05 to 2011-12, the higher growth as registered in low productivity states like Chhatisgarh(5.91), Jharkhand(5.76), Rajasthan(5.63) and Madhya Pradesh(5.22) in comparison of Punjab(1.49) as it has been approaching saturation point. He said that Punjab has a massive agri share of 31% in NSDP but its low growth was a worrisome factor. He also pointed out that during 2004-13, the growth rate of crops/products having no MSP have been increased significantly. He said that Fruits (6.04), Vegetables(6.37) and eggs(6.20) growth rate was much higher than crop like Rice(1.99), Wheat(3.60) and Sugarcane(4.01) having effective MSP. He said that growth was must for keeping intact the food security and futuristic marketing was an answer to the challenge. He advised Punjab farmers to retain their innovative thinking besides strengthening their risk management.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sukhpal Singh, PAU advocated for more relief and benefit of subsidies to marginal farmers as 3 lac such farmers were getting just 6% share in subsidies. He also suggested for setting up of Farmers Income Commission. Mr. Bhavdeep Sardana of Sukhjit Starch Mills suggests an umbrella certification authority to certify the land and produce of farmers.

          On this occasion Mr. Sukhmeet Singh, associate director ISB made a presentation on ‘Towards an efficient market with minimal risks: A value chain analysis’. Mr. Rahul Srivastva from Cargyl foods, Mr. Dinesh Dua, Progressive farmer Mohinder Singh Grewal and Mr. Ajmer Singh Lakhowal, Chairman Punjab Mandi Board also expressed their views.

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REARING OF SMALL RUMINANTS IS THE NEED OF THE HOUR-DR. BALJIT

GOAT IS THE ‘FUTURE ANIMAL’- DR. ASHOK

 Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar)/Chandigarh February 18:-

            The 6th Technical session of the Agriculture summit was held under the Chairmanship of Dr. Baljit Singh Prof. and Associate Dean (Research) University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Canada wherein he stressed on the need of rearing small ruminants. He said that crop farming is no longer viable as primary economic source because of the rising input costs. He said that the increased use of insecticides and pesticides for the crops is leading to rise in the incidence of cancer therefore venturing into other allied sectors is the need of the hour. He exhorted the small and marginal farmers besides land less agriculture labourers and unplanned youth to opt for scientific economic goat rearing besides intensive pig farming to supplement their income besides giving a big push to diversification of agricultural economy.

            Speaking on the occasion Dr. Ashok Kumar Principal Scientist Central Insititute for Research on Goats, Mathura said that goat husbandry as industry in organized scale is gaining momentum and several farm under private sector are emerging. Claiming that goat is the ‘future animal’ as it requires as low initial investment, less housing requirement, the goat meat is low on cholesterol and relatively good for health, it is best suited animal to varied climatic conditions and there is less risk in goat farming as compare to other livestock.

            Giving enlightening statistics Dr. Kumar informed that goats and their products contribute approximately Rs. 22,138 crore annually to the national economy including the income from goat meat, milk, by-products and manure. He gave detailed information on the goat rearing system including the technologies for economic goat farming. He also gave valueable tips on feeding and housing management  of the animal. The participants were briefed about health technologies so that mortality rate may be restricted below 10%.

            Giving tips for economic goat farming the suggested rearing of good quality of goats, selective breeding of animals as well as strategic marketing of goat.

            Dr. D.K. Sharma from National Research Centre on Pigs, Rani Guwahati said that India facing a unique development paradox of being in the front ranks of fast growing global economies with about 25% of world’s hungry poor. He said the population in India will reach 1.5 billion by 2026 but its economy is not growing at the same peace. He said that for a large population nearly 20 million new jobs would be required and pig farming for self employment will play an important role in such a scenario. Enlisting the advantages of pig farming, he said that pigs grow fast and are capable of producing two litters per year under optimal management conditions. Its carcass return is quite high i.e 60-80% of life body weight. Moreover pig rearing can be done with a small investment on building and equipment and the faeces of pigs is used as a manure to maintain soil fertility. He said that pig farming provides employment opportunities to seasonally employed rural farmers and supplementary income to improve their living standard.  He said that demand for pork and pork products are increasing internationally. Citing the example of china, he said that it imports 48% of pork from US which is indicative of the fact that there is no dearth of market for quality pork. He said that lack of adequate support from the developmental and financial bodies is a hindrance in way to intensive pig farming. Besides non availability of organized slaughter houses is yet another problem. Dr. Sharma highlighted the opportunities and strategies for piggery improvement including establishment of pig villages and identification of breeder farmers. He shared the success stories of pig farmers of various states and stressed upon rearing quality pigs.

            Mr. Dalwinder Singh from Ropar and Mr. Gurbaksh Singh from Nathana Bathinda also shared their experiences as pig farmers.

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STATE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE SUBSIDIZED EQUIPMENTS FOR CULTIVATING AND UPKEEPING ALTERNATE CROPS LIKE MAIZE AND SOYABEAN- BADAL

·        CM VISITS STALLS EXHIBITING AGRICULTURE MACHINERY ON THIRD DAY OF PPAS

·        INTERACTS WITH THE FARMERS OF VARIOUS STATES

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar, Mohali), February 18-

In order to reduce the area currently under paddy cultivation in the state by promoting the cultivation of alternate crops like Maize, Soyabean and cotton, the Punjab Chief Minister today announced that the state government would provide all the equipments and machinery required for their cultivation and upkeep of the produce to the farmers at subsidized rates.

Taking a round on the stalls of Agriculture implements and machinery exhibited by the national and international companies here on the third day of Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) here today, the Chief Minister said that in order to motivate the farmers for the crop diversification, all out efforts were being made by the state government and a special campaign to make the farmers aware about the merits of this flagship program has already been embarked. Admitting that the agriculture machinery and implements have a great role in the progress of farming, he said that the need of the hour was that these implements and machinery was made available to the farmers at subsidized rates. Mr. Badal said that after the summit he would personally meet the progressive farmers of the different parts of the state who were successfully cultivating various crops, so that agriculture could be again made a profitable venture.

Showing keen interest in automatic cane harvesting machine which would peel the sugarcane and automatically load it in the trolley after cutting it in pieces, the Chief Minister asked the officers of the Engineering department of the Agriculture department to prepare a report regarding the requirement of these machines after deliberations with the sugarcane producers and sugar mill owners so that the state government could provide these machines to them. The manufacturers of the machine informed the Chief Minister that this machine harvests Sugar cane over one acre land in two and half hours at a cost of Rs 8000-10000 per acre.

          The chief Minister also evinced keen interest in the straw reapers, bailers, rotavators and hapiseeders. On the occasion he asked the officers of the Agriculture department to apprise the farmers about the subsidies being offered by the state government on these machines adding that the officers must ensure that the farmers get this subsidy on time.

The Chief Minister also got the detailed information about the tissue culture technique adopted by the Pepsico company for producing quality potato seeds. The officials of the company also informed Mr. Badal that the company produces quality potato seeds over 3500 acres of land besides cultivating the potato crop on 11000 acre in the state. They also apprised the Chief Minister that the company provides machinery for cultivating, grading and digging the potato crop to their farmers free of cost.

During the exhibition the Chief Minister also sought detailed information about the battery operated spray pumps, seed refining machines and producing fertilizer and power from bio waste. 

On the occasion the Chief Minister also interacted with the farmers from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and other states to get first hand information about their experiences during the summit. The moot point of the discussion was that the agriculture was no longer a profitable venture. The farmers also expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for organizing this mega event for resolving the grave problems of the farmers.

          The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Chairman of Punjab Chapter of PHD Chamber of Commerce Mr. RS Sachdeva ad Joint Director of Engineering Wing of Agriculture Department Mr. Des Raj Kataria.

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CM APROVES ALLOTMENT OF ADDITIONAL LAND OF 1.50 ACRE FOR EXPANSION OF AFPI

LAND TO BE UTILIZED FOR CREATING ADDITIONAL FACILITIES/ INFRA STRUCTURE FOR THE CADETS

SIX ACRES LAND ALLOTTED FOR SETTING UP MAI BHAGO ARMED FORCES PREPARATORY INSTITUTE FOR GIRLS IN SECTOR 66 SAS NAGAR (MOHALI)

Chandigarh, February 18-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today approved the allotment of additional land of 1.50 acre for the expansion of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (AFPI) at sector 77 in SAS Nagar (Mohali).

          A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister after clearing the proposal mooted by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) during a meeting with the Secretary Housing and Urban Development Mr. A Venuprasad to immediately allot the land for creating additional facilities/ infra structure for the cadets undergoing training here at this prestigious institute for recruitment as commissioned officers in the Armed Forces.

          It might be recalled that the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) had already allotted 8.44 acre land for the existing infra structure over the AFPI.

Likewise, the Chief Minister also gave his nod to allot six acres land owned by GMADA for setting up Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls in sector 66 SAS Nagar (Mohali).    

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CHIEF MINISTER’S OFFICE, PUNJAB

AGRICULTURE MINISTER OF CANADIAN PROVINCE SASKATCHEWAN CALLS ON CM

·        EXPRESSES KEEN DESIRE TO COLLABORATE WITH THE STATE IN GRAIN STORAGE, TECHNOLOGIES IN FOOD SECURITY, BIO-SCIENCES AND DEVELOPMENT OF NEW SEED VARIETIES IN MAIZE PROCESSING AND SOYABEAN CULTIVATION

·        SASKATCHEWAN TO EXPLORE POSSIBILITY OF TRANSFER OF WATER TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES TO STATE

·        CM ANNOUNCES TO MAKE PPAS AN ANNUAL FEATURE  

·        UNDERLINES NEED OF FARMER EXCHANGE PROGRAMS BETWEEN PUNJAB AND SASKATCHEWAN

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar, Mohali), February 18-

Agriculture Minister of Saskatchewan (Canada) Mr. Lyle Stewart today evinced keen interest in collaboration with Punjab in grain storage, technologies in food security, bio-sciences and development of new seed varieties in maize processing and soyabean cultivation.

A Canadian delegation led by Mr. Stewart called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here on the third day of Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS).

Mr. Stewart during interaction with the Chief Minister said that there was a tremendous scope of bilateral cooperation in these fields as both the countries have a vast working experience of agriculture. He apprised the Chief Minister that both the states were already working closely in the field of Veterinary sciences adding that there was tremendous potential for the mutual cooperation in the other allied sectors of agriculture. The visiting Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister also assured Mr. Badal that they would explore the possibility of transfer of water treatment technologies through Global Water Security Institute in Saskatoon to tackle the chronic problem of brackish water besides water logging in the southern Punjab.

Extending invitation to Punjab delegation for a Farm Show to be held in June this year, the Minister welcomed the proposal mooted by the Chief Minister for starting farmer exchange program between both the countries. He said that Saskatchewan would prefer collaboration with Punjab in varied fields adding that the existing arrangements of Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) with Saskatchewan University in developing new varieties of oil-seeds could be extended to cover new areas on the lines of student exchange programme with Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) also.

Taking part in deliberations the Chief Minister informed the delegation that this first ever Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit would be held every year and hereinafter advance intimations would be sent to the delegates from Canada to elicit their maximum participation in this mega event. He said that Punjab would welcome collaboration between Saskatchewan University and PAU for animal health care and developing new varieties of maize and soyabean. Mr. Badal also desired that students exchange programme should be worked out and formulated mutually by PAU and Saskatchewan University. He also emphasized the need of Farmers' Exchange Programme for fast and easy transfer of technologies to the field.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Financial Commissioner Development (FCD) Mr. Suresh Kumar and his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar.

The visiting delegation comprised Assistant Deputy Minister Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Mr. Rick Burton and Chief of staff to Mr. Stewart Mr. Tyler Lynch. 

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CM OFFERS TO EARMARK PREFERENTIAL SEATS FOR MOZAMBIQUE STUDENTS IN PAU

MOVE AIMED AT UPGRADING THE SKILLS OF AFRICAN FARMERS TO ENHANCE AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION

MOZAMBIQUE COMMERCIAL COUNSELLOR LAUDS CM’S GESTURE TO BAIL OUT THEIR AGRICULTURALLY BACKWARD COUNTRY

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar, Mohali), February 18-

In a bid to acquaint the students of Mozambique with latest farm practices and emerging strategies of Research and Development in agriculture, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today offered to earmark preferential seats in the Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) for the students of African country besides running special courses to train them for empowering their farmers with professional skills.

In a meeting with Counsellor Commercial, High Commission of the Republic of Mozambique Mr. Vicente Paulo C. Chihale here on the third day of Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS), the Chief Minister gave greater thrust on education and training of students of Mozambique in PAU, Ludhiana as their country was agriculturally backward. Mr. Badal desired that a long-term sustainable programme of student and farmer exchange and education and training of Mozambique students in Punjab should be worked out to enable their farmers to learn new techniques of farming. He directed the Vice Chancellor (VC), PAU to pursue this and finalize and formulate programmes in this regard.

The Chief Minister, while emphasising on the need for farmer exchange program between both the countries, said that it would offer a platform to the farmers of both the nations to share their experiences and expertise. He asked the Commercial Counsellor to send a delegation of Mozambique farmers to visit and live with farmers of Punjab to learn the advanced on farm practices through live demonstrations.

Expressing his gratitude for an invitation to the PPAS, Mr. Paulo C. Chihale said that Mozambique would be interested to train its farmers and students particularly in cotton and rice as nearly 82 to 85 percent of their agriculture land was yet not cultivated. Welcoming the proposal mooted by Chief Minister regarding the farm exchange programs he invited farmers and agricultural experts from Punjab to visit Mozambique to train and educate their students, farmers and officials.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Financial Commissioner Development (FCD) Mr. Suresh Kumar and his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar.

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EXPERTS SUGGEST FOR CANADA-PUNJAB JOINT INITIATIVES IN THE FOOD PROCESSING AND DIARY GENETICS SECTORS

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar)/Chandigarh February 18:  Canada and Punjab today emphasized the need for joint initiatives in the area of food processing technology swine forming diary genetics and canola farming to give a big impetus to agriculture economy of Punjab besides to encourage farmers on the sound parameters of agricultural diversification.

The 5th session on Canada on the 3rd day of Agricultural summit-2014 was conducted by Mr. Lyle Eldon Stewart Minister of Agriculture Saskathewan. Focusing on food processing technology Mr. Robin Young, India project Manager, Manitoba Food Development Centre said that commercialization of conventional and functional food products was only answer to the economic crises being faced by the farm sector of Punjab. Emphasizing on collaborative efforts of Agro-scientists, farmers, food processors, and food scientists, Mr. Young focused on targeting viable commercial processes.

            Providing a viable alternative on pig rearing or Swine Farming Mr. Alfred Wahl, President, Polar Genetics Canada, said that in the protein deficient country like India swine farming should be given incentive as it would provide higher income for farm families, farm family besides ensuring fiscal additions to overall economy. He spoke on the  role of genetics in improving pig production.

            Describing canola as a next generation of, Mr. Frank Groeneweg Chairman SaskCanola said that in the health conscious society with focus on healthy dietary fats canola was becoming popular all over the world. He said that canola was fast emerging as excellent live stock feed that was increasing diary production.

            Speaking on Diary Genetics and Semex, Mr. Amar Dhumal General Manager Samex-Provet Genetics (I) Pvt Ltd. said that the semen export was emerging as new growth area in the farming economy.  

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Punjab told to go for fish farming in water logged areas of  Malwa

Experts focus on Inland Saline Aquaculture

 Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar)/Chandigarh February 18:

            Various farm and fisheries experts today advocated for a big push inland saline aquaculture especially in the water logged areas of Malwa region.  

Dr. W. S. Lakra Director and Vice Chancellor Central Institute of Fisheries Education speaking on the opportunities and challenges in the sector said that Punjab with 1.09 million hectare of salt affected area has tremendous scope for inland aquaculture. He said that this land was unfit for sustainable agriculture crop besides surface-drainage system was uneconomic.  Dr. Lakra said that culture of Milk Fish was being promoted as it has tolerance to variable salinities. He said that we have been able to achieve 3750 kg. per hectare production per year. He also educated the culture of grey mullet with 1320 Kg/per hectare/4 month production. Dr. Lakra also focused on culture of giant freshwater prawn tiger shrimp, white shrimp, pacific white shrimp that were witnessing increase market share. He said that Punjab with 99000 tonns fish production and with highest fish productivity of 6560 Kg./per hectare, double than national average has ability to lead the nation.

Speaking on value added eggs, meat and fish products Dr. Jayathilakan Senior Scientist FREEZE Drying & Animal Products Technology Division Defence food research laboratory Mysore said that meat, fish and egg are an indispensable source of valueable macro & micro nutrients. He said that brics countries inclyding Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa account for more than 50% of world’s total population and represent most of the animal protein demand.  He said that the total meat production that was 3.6 million tonns in the country in 1992-93 has jumped to 6.7 million tonns in 2011-12 in which poultry has 37% share. He said that buffalo milk has considered as black gold and is set to cause pink revolution in India after green revolution in 1960s, white revolution in 1980s and blue revolution in 1990s.  Focusing on value addition of meat products, he said that India would focus on appropriate quality raw material, correct formulation, optimum processing, right packaging, storage stability, flavor & Colour changes, Nutirtional value, labeling requirements and product specifications & regulations etc.  

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NOT RETAILERS BUT MANUFACTURERS WOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ADULTERATION-SUKHBIR BADAL

·        RAHAT SCHEME TO BENEFIT 1.86 LAKH TRADERS AND RETAILERS

·        147 CITIZEN CENTRIC SERVICES TO BE ONLINE WITHIN A YEAR

·        CONGRESS AND AAP HAS NO FUTURE IN PUNJAB

·        CONGRESS 'ADVISOR' CAPTAIN AMARINDER ADVISED INDRA GANDHI FOR OPERATION BLUE STAR

SAMANA (PATIALA), FEBRUARY 17: Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister today announced that Punjab Government would soon roll out a policy with a view to fix accountability of manufacturing units for any adulteration in agri-inputs like seeds, pesticides, feed, fertilizers etc by keeping retailers and shopkeepers out of apprehensions of any conviction besides saving the farmers from huge losses.

Launching Rahat Scheme for traders here, Mr. Badal said the sole motto of this first of its own kind scheme in the country was to make all trades hassle and tension free and it has been implemented to provide a big relief to the retailers and traders. He said the earnest desire of SAD-BJP Government was to create a congenial atmosphere in the trading that's why Punjab was contemplating to launch new policy for sale of agricultural inputs in consonance with Rahat Scheme for the welfare of traders and retailers community.

          Describing Rahat Scheme a unique and beneficial for 1.86 lakh traders in the state, Mr. Badal said that under this unique scheme the traders and retailers would have to file only a single page registration form with self-declaration about their annual turnover to become Rahat Certificate holder. After getting registration with excise department, traders and retailers would not have to maintain any record and registers besides filing VAT returns, he said adding no excise inspector would visit their premises for checking or inspecting purposes.

He also informed the traders and retailers gathered from five districts of Malwa region that in lieu of minimal lump-sum taxes to be paid by them as per their annual turnover, Punjab Government would facilitate them with accidental insurance of Rs. 2 lakh, cashless treatment up to Rs. 50,000 and insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh in case of natural calamity. 

Mr. Badal further said that Punjab Government has already launched e-district project in three districts and by the end of 2014 as many as 147 citizen centric services would be provided online and people would not have to visit any public office to get their required documents.

Meanwhile answering media queries, Mr. Badal said not only Aam Aadmi Party but Congress too has no political future in Punjab. He said AAP would meet the same fate as faced by PPP in previous polls in the state whether they fields Mr. H.S. Phoolka or any other candidate in Lok Sabha polls. He asserted that electorates of our country have decided to bring NDA at Center and Modi wave would wipe out Congress and its political allies besides AAP.

In a query related to statement of Captain Amarinder Singh regarding Operation Blue Star, the Deputy CM said it is well known fact that Indira Gandhi was hell bent to decimate the most sacred and religious Sikh shrine Golden Temple. “At that time Captain Amarinder Singh was her advisor and he, himself, advised the then Prime Minister to launch Operation Blue Star”, said he adding but now Captain was trying to mislead people of Punjab for getting political mileage in ensuing polls and to regain the chair of PPCC.

            Taking a dig at Congress Vice President Mr. Rahul Gandhi, the Deputy CM said inexperienced Rahul was virtually blank as compare to decisive and development oriented BJP's Prime Ministerial Candidate Narendra Modi. In a lighter vain, Mr. Badal said that a person who has double mind to have a beard or not, cannot lead the country and politically he was nothing before Mr. Narendra Modi.

When asked about the budget presented by Union Finance Minister, Mr. Badal said that it was the last budget of Congress Party in its 'political life' since in future it would become a dream for Congress to rule the nation. 

Earlier Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal along with Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Parliament, Mr. Sarup Chand Singla, Mr. Parkash Chand Garg, both Chief Parliamentary Secretaries handed over Rahat Certificates to the traders and retailers of five districts of Malwa region.

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Punjab takes a giant leap to become next IT hub of the country

 

Sukhbir hands over land allotment letters to 27 companies to set up IT units

30,000 youths to get employment with the investment of Rs. 1000 Crore  

Foundation stone for Infoyses campus on February 22

Within 2014, all villages to be connected with 4G

UPA presents its “Retirement Budget”

Chandigarh, February 17

             Punjab today took a giant leap towards becoming the next IT hub of the country as today Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal handed over land allotment letters to 27 companies including Infoyses to set up their IT units at Mohali with an investment of 1000 crore, which would provide employment to nearly 30,000 youths in Punjab.

            Today addressing the media persons after handing over allotment letters to companies, Deputy Chief Minister said that the recently held Progressive Punjab Investors Summit has started showing its results as in a very short span of time, the implementation of MOCs (Memorandum of Commitment) has been initiated. Terming the investment in IT sector as a historic achievement, Deputy Chief Minister said that “it is a just a beginning  and in next three years Mohali would be the first planned IT destination of the country  which would further give big push to the economic activities in the state.

             Mr. Badal has said that to ensure the speedy implementation of these projects, the land has been allotted on lease for three years and if any company fails to invest within stipulated time than the MOU would be canceled by the Punjab Government. Adding further he announced that Punjab Government would review the progress of these projects on half yearly basis.

             Replying to a question about employment of Punjabi youth in IT sector, Mr. Badal said that these companies would have to take the services of Punjabi youth as employees from this region in IT companies at Banglore, Pune and Hyderabad desires to settle near their homes. He said “during my visit to IT companies at Baglore and Mumbai, I met many employees who hails from Fazilka, Samana, Amritsar and Mohali”.

             The Deputy Chief Minister has clarified that out of 27 companies, 15 are Multinationals and a committee under the Chief Secretary has selected these companies out of 45 by keeping in view their potential and track record.
Talking about the investment by Infosys, Mr. Badal said that company is all set to lay the foundation stone of it biggest campus in India on February 22, having capacity of 50,000 employees at Mohali.

             Promising drastic changes in the Punjab in next three years, Mr. Badal said that “nothing is impossible for Punjab as Punjabi are very progressive by nature”. The Deputy Chief Minister said that all schools and villages in the state would be connected with 4G service in next one year with the investment of RS 4000 Crore. Besides that California University and Tech Mahindra have given their green signal to set up their Universities in Edu-City at New Chandigarh.

 Answering the question regarding the Union Budget, presented today, the Deputy Chief Minister said that it was the last budget could be called a “Retirement Budget” of UPA as people have made their mind to wipe out the congress in Lok Sabha elections.     

The companies which got allotment letters included Infosys Limited which would invest  Rs. 527 crore to provide employment to 15000 youth,  where as Emerson Electric Company (India) Pvt Ltd.to investment Rs 51.73 (employment 180), KNACK BPO PVT. LTD, to invest Rs 56.25 (675) , Netsmartz Infotech India Pvt Ltd.,Chandigarh to invest Rs. 51.54 ( 400), Bebo Technologies Pvt Ltd to invest Rs 32.7 crore ( 600), Maxval Technologies Pvt Ltd. Belapur Station Complex, Mumbai to invest Rs 27 crore (300) , Allengers Medical Systems Ltd to invest Rs 25 crore ( 58) , S. E-Biz, Infotech Ltd.,to invest Rs  21 crore (600), Dr ITM Limited to invest Rs 20.61 crore ( 1352), Xeam Ventures Pvt Ltd to invest Rs 16.74 crore ( 4000), Aequor Information Technology Pvt Ltd to invest Rs. 15.75 crore ( 261), Offshore A-One Technology Pvt Ltd., to invest Rs. 12.85 crore ( 300) , Kiran Foreign Trade Pvt Ltd to invest Rs. 11 crore (1300), Cyber Futuristics India Pvt Ltd (UP) to invest Rs. 9.2 crore( 48) , Logic ERP Solutions Pvt Ltd. To invest Rs. 8.5 crore ( 600), Right Global Infosolutions Pvt Ltd.to invest Rs. 13.26 crore ( 500), Outline Systems India Pvt Ltd to invest Rs. 12.15 crore ( 120), Over and above Software and Infrastructure Solutions to invest Rs11.5 crore ( 120),Tech Tier IT Solutions Pvt Ltd to invest Rs 8.78 crore (150), Megri Soft Ltd to invest Rs. 7.46 crore ( 200), Drish infotech limited to invest Rs. 6.02 crore ( 72), A K Speak wireless Pvt ltd  to invest Rs. 6 crore ( 300),Access Infotech Pvt Ltd to invest Rs5 crore ( 200), ADI Backoffice Professionals Pvt Ltd.,to invest Rs 5 crore(1170), IMPINGE SOLUTIONS, to invest Rs 4.75 crore ( 200),Meritech Software Pvt. Ltd to invest Rs 4.13 crore (100) and IE Impact Microsystems Pvt Ltd to invest Rs 3.86 crore which would provide employment to 250 youth.

It may be mentioned here that these companies would invest Rs 974.78 crore to employ about 29056 youth.

            Prominent amongst others present on the occasion included CPS Mr. N.K.Sharma and Sarup Chand Singla, Principal Secretary Housing Mr. K.A.Singh and Principal Secretary Housing Mr. A. Venu Prashad.   

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CONGRESS WOULD BE A PART OF HISTORY AFTER PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS-SUKHBIR

·         SAD-BJP committed to make Punjab number one in all spheres

·         Punjab to setup 6 residential schools for meritorious students of 12th standard

·         Deputy CM lays foundation stones of development projects worth rupees 185.16 Crores

SAS Nagar, February 17

Deputy Chief Minister Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that NDA would get clear majority in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections and the fortune of Congress party would lost into the pages of history as nation was fed up of anti people and anti nation policies of this most corrupt political party. He was talking to media after initiating work on three development projects worth Rs 185.16 Crore here today.

                Replying to a media query regarding ‘One Rank One Pension’ bill introduced by Congress led UPA party, Mr. Badal questioned the intention of Congress party and its allies for ignoring this bill of great importance for a decade. He said that Punjab government has requested UPA government to bring this bill of utmost importance for our soldiers for last 10 years but it postponed it for one or other reason. “Congress party is well aware that it is now on the verge of extinction so its frustrated leader is trying to whitewash its misdeeds. Now, it is practicing its age old practice of befooling people by bringing such bills but these days voters of the nation are well aware of such tactics”, added Mr. Badal.

                When asked about whether Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal would opt for a senior post if NDA comes to power, Mr. Badal said that serving for Punjab and its people was always first priority for patron of Shiromani Akali dal and he would always prefer to stay at Punjab to fulfill his commitments to the people of the state.

                Earlier, Mr. Badal laid foundation stones of ultra modern auditorium worth rupees 55 crore here at sector 62, residential school for meritorious students worth rupees 30 crore at sector 70 and 200 meter wide road from sector 73/74 junction to national highway Kharar.

                On this occasion, Mr. Badal informed that SAD-BJP government was going to fulfill its commitment of setting up one of its kind multi-utility auditorium at Mohali. He said that this auditorium would provide great opportunities to budding talents besides promoting cultural activities. Deputy CM further announced that Punjab government was going to setup residential schools for meritorious students with an investment of 180 crores at Mohali, Bathinda, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar to provide them quality education.

                Prominent amongst others, Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, education minister, Mrs. Paramjit Kaur Landran, Chairperson Punjab State Women Commission, Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, former Union Minister and Mrs. Amanjot Kaur Ramoowalia, Chairperson District Planning Committee Mohali were also present on the occasion.

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GOVERNOR OF WESTERN PUNJAB VISITS PPAS

HAILS UNIQUE INITIATIVE OF CM TO TRANSFORM THE DESTINY OF MILLIONS OF FARMERS IN THE REGION

LAYS THRUST ON TAPPING THE POTENTIAL OF FOOD PROCESSING IN BOTH THE EASTERN AND WESTERN PUNJAB

BADAL UNDERLINES THE NEED FOR TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF AGRICULTURE, HORTICULTURE AND AGRO-FORESTRY

EMPHASIZES ON EXCHANGING SUPERIOR GERM PLASM FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF LOCAL BREEDS OF LIVESTOCK

VISIT OF GOVERNOR TO BOOST BILATERAL TIES BETWEEN BOTH THE COUNTRIES

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar, Mohali), February 17-

Governor of Western (Pakistan) Punjab Janaab Mohammed Sarwar today called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal here on the sidelines of the Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) and congratulated him for taking this unique initiative to showcase the agriculture and allied farming in a right perspective to change the destiny of millions of farmers in the region.

Accompanied by Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan Mr. Mansoor Khan, the Governor highly appreciated the pace of development witnessed in the agriculture and livestock sector in the eastern (Indian) Punjab. He called upon the need to synergize efforts between both the Punjabs to mutually benefit their farmers through modern farm practices by sharing their experiences and expertise adding he said in furtherance of this objective there should be regular exchange of delegations comprising farmers, farm scientists and agri-economists. Mr. Sarwar further said that Western Punjab had dominant position in cotton, kinnow, wheat, maize and Basmati like eastern Punjab.

The Governor emphasized the need to undertake sustained Research and Development (R&D) in the field of cropping pattern and agriculture production both qualitatively and quantitatively which would emerge both the Punjabs as frontrunner states not only in the sub continent but also across the globe. He said that untapped potential in the field of agro processing could also be explored to enhance the value addition of traditional crops. Buoyed over the success of PPAS, Mr. Sarwar said that it was a healthy platform for the farmers to compete within themselves and establish new benchmarks of agriculture production.

The Chief Minister, while taking part in deliberations, underscored the need for transferring technology in the field of agriculture, horticulture and agro-forestry. He said this summit was exclusively a farmer centric initiative aimed at transforming the lives of beleaguered peasantry, which was passing through acute crisis. Mr. Badal assured the Governor that he would certainly send a high level delegation of progressive farmers from the state to visit Western Punjab to study the existing farm practices there, especially in the cotton, maize and citrus fruits.

The Chief Minister also complemented the Governor for the advancements in the livestock sector as Western Punjab was far ahead of us in having exceptionally high yielding varieties of livestock including Sahiwal cow, Nili Ravi Buffalo and Goat breeds. He also laid thrust on exchange of superior germ plasm for the improvement of genetic potential of local breeds. Expressing gratitude to the Governor for his benevolent gesture by gracing the occasion, Mr. Badal said that this step would surely script a new chapter in Indo-Pak ties in general besides further fostering goodwill, brotherhood and peace amongst both the Punjabs in particular.      

Later the Governor visited the exhibition and evinced keen interest in the livestock, farm machinery & equipment besides new varieties of hybrid seeds.

The Chief Minister also felicitated Mr. Sarwar by presenting him a sword, shawl and a momento as a token of love and affection on the behalf of Punjabis.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, his Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar and his Advisor Animal Husbandry Dr. BK Uppal

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CM VISITS LIVESTOCK EXPO ON THE SECOND DAY OF PPAS

CALLS UPON DAIRY FARMERS TO GO FOR VALUE ADDITION FOR MAXIMIZING THEIR PROFITS

LAYS THRUST ON PROMOTING INDIGENOUS BREEDS OF DAIRY ANIMALS

DAIRY FARMERS THANKS CM FOR OFFERING A HEALTHY PLATFORM TO EXHIBIT THEIR ELITE ANIMALS

Chapparchiri (SAS Nagar, Mohali), February 17-

          Showing keen passion and love for livestock and Dairy farming, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today took a round of the livestock expo during the second day of the Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) here and interacted with the owners of cattle, buffaloes and small ruminants. 

          Accompanied by a battery of the officers/ officials of the Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development department, the Chief Minister had detailed discussions with the owners of cattle who proudly displayed their elite animals, about their breed, pedigree, milk yield and salient features of every animal. Laying special emphasis on the local breeds of dairy animals such as Sahiwal Cow and Nili Ravi Buffaloes, he enquired from the farmers about the best dairy practices being implemented by them in their dairy farms and they apprised the Chief Minister with their feeding, breeding and management practices. Mr. Badal asked the Departments of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development to find ways and means for the promotion of indigenous breeds of Sahiwal and Nili Ravi as they were far more disease resistant and adaptable to local climatic conditions. 

          Evincing keen interest in the Sahiwal cow exhibited by the representatives of the Namdhari sect, the Chief Minister expressed his desire to own such a cow. Highly appreciating the initiative of Progressive Dairy farmers, he called upon them to become a role model to motivate the small and marginal farmers, who were holding less than five acres of land, to adopt Dairy farming on commercial and scientific lines to supplement their income. Mr. Badal asked the Dairy Development and Animal Husbandry department to jointly work out a strategy to sensitize the farmers especially the small ones to adopt dairy farming as allied profession adding he said that the state government was already providing a slew of incentives/ subsidies, capacity building facilities besides adequate veterinary health care and breeding services to the dairy farmers at their doorsteps.

          Emphasizing on the need to encourage goat rearing, pig farming, fisheries and apiary, the Chief Minister said that this could only be successful if it was properly backed by the value addition in terms of meat and milk processing. He said that it was the high time to motivate the farmers to switch over from conventional agriculture to the allied farming to overcome their huge losses on account of squeezed margins due to stagnated MSP and exorbitant hike in agriculture inputs.

On the occasion the Chief Minister was informed by the Animal Husbandry and Dairy development department that all the owners who have exhibited their animals were being given feed and fodder besides shelter management for their animals, free of cost. They would also be given transportation and logistic charges for ferrying out their animals to and fro from their respective destination.

Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister the cattle owners from the state as well as from other parts of the country said that this laudatory step would go a long way in giving impetus to the Dairy sector and Punjab would soon usher a ‘white revolution’ as it had enough potential to do so.

Later on the Chief Minister also visited the stalls of GEA West fallia, a German Company, known for it automization and clean milk production machinery, Progressive Dairy farmers association besides that of National Fishery Development Board and Trident group.  

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Advisor to Chief Minister on Animal Husbandry Dr. PK Uppal, Director Dairy Development Dr. Inderjit Singh and a leading Dairy farmer Mr. Sukh Harpreet Singh Rode.

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1st Technical Session of Progressive Punjab Agriculture summit-2014

·       Seminar on Challenges and the way forward held

·       Reduction on input costs coupled with water and soil conservation stressed upon

·       Proposition made to use Punjab as National Laboratory to develop strategies and technologies for sustainable agriculture

·       Farmers advised to adopt ‘agro business principle’ instead of considering farming as a simple occupation

Chapparchiri/ Mohali/ Chandigarh February 17:-

          Deliberations were held on soil and water conservation along with reduction in input costs of farmers during the brain storming first technical session of Progressive Punjab Agriculture summit. The session on ‘Challenges And The Way Forward for Punjab Agriculture’ commenced under the Chairmanship of Dr. S. Ayyappan, Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi.

 In his keynote address Dr. Ayyappan supported the Progressive Punjab theme with his expression that ‘Punjab is leading the nation in Agricultural sector’. He stressed on the need to improve the coordination between the farmers and the agro scientists. He said that after implementation of Food Security Act in the Nation, the country is once again looking towards Punjab but Punjab needs to conserve its soil and water along with adopting diversification in agriculture. He suggested integrated farming techniques to make farming a profitable venture. He suggested the farmers to resort to ‘Agro Business Principle’ in place of considering farming just a mere occupation. Giving tips on reduction in input costs and subsequent increase in profit, he suggested the farmers to prepare a water budget for optimal use of water resources. He said that to counter the challenges faced by agriculture sector in Punjab, the farmers should adopt diversification and venture into agro processing thereby setting up for themselves a self sustaining profitable agro model.

          Speaking on the occasion the Vice Chancellor of Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) Dr. B.S. Dhillon expressed concern over Punjab Agriculture being at cross roads. He said that on road to Green Revolution Punjab virtually exported its water and nutrients to other states. He said that the State discharged its ‘national duty’ at a very high cost. He added that other states are following the same route and are bound to encounter similar consequences; added that the nation should use Punjab as a ‘National Laboratory’ to develop strategies and technologies for sustainable agriculture so that Punjab should be instrumental in leading the nation towards Second Green Revolution. He sought higher financial support from the centre for agriculture, stressed on need for expansion and strengthening of R&D, enhanced subsidies to promote natural resource management for secured future and the need to create awareness amongst citizens about their responsibility in conservation of natural resources.

          Mr. J.C. Katyal, former Vice Chancellor HAU spoke on Soil and Water management for sustainable agricultural development, Dr. S.P. Yadav, Jain Irrigation, Jalgaon, spoke on modern irrigation technologies for water conservation while Dr. M.L. Jatt, CIMMYT- India Office, New Delhi gave a presentation on conservation of agriculture – an option for Sustainable Intensification of agriculture in Punjab, Prof. P.K. Aggarwal from International water Management Institute spoke on Climate change and mitigation of its effects on agriculture, Mr. Barjinder Mechanization expert from New Holland gave detailed presentation on need for mechanization of Farm Operations, Dr. V.K. Taneja VC GADVASU spoke on role of livestock in Diversification of Farming and Mr. Vikram Ahuja alongwith Mr. Mohinder Singh Dosanjh both the progressive farmers also shared their experiences.

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SCIENTISTS TOLD TO COME OUT WITH STAINS OF PEST/WEED/DISEASE/HEAT RESISTANT CROPS WITH DROUGHT TOLERANCE

·        Focus on increasing productivity to maintain food security

·        Increasing climate change biggest threat to food security

 

Chappar Chiri/Mohali/Chandigarh, February 17: Biotechnologists and scientists from the various parts of the globe today had brain storming session on the second day of Punjab Agriculture Summit and the focus of the discussion was to increase production and meet the emerging challenges in the field of agriculture.

Initiating the discussion Dr. Thomas Lumpkin, Director General, CIMMYT, Mexico and Mr. K.V. Prabhu, Joint Director Research IARI, New Delhi said that Agro Biotechnologists would have to focus on developing pest and disease resistant crops with proper weed management, drought tolerance having reduced demand of fertilizer, keeping in view the increased climatic change in the world besides explosion of population due to doubling of life expectancy. They said that though production has increased from 15 Metric tonne to 257 MT from 1975 to 2012 but there was not expected decrease in poverty as farmers got higher real income with reduced prices.

Painting a grim picture for India they said that India on date has 17% of world’s human and 11% livestock population. They said that India would have to focus on low water consuming highly productive crops as the country with 1/5th of population of world has only 4.2% world’s water. He said that picture gets grimmer with country having only 2.4% of world’s area of which only 40% area was net irrigated area. They said that India cannot ignore agriculture sector as its 52% of population earns livelihood in agriculture sector and contributes 14.2% in GDP.

Expressing concern over impending nutritional insecurity, the scientists revealed a startling fact that per capita availability of food grain in country has remained confined to 400-470 grams from the year 1951 whereas there has been steady decline in availability of per capita pulses since 1951 to around 50 grams per capita.

Dwelling the challenges for second green revolution the scientists said the challenges included meeting the demand of food grains, breaking yield barrier, ensuring nutritional security, increasing factor productivity, improving soil health and water table, managing incidence of diseases and pests and climate change-the biggest threat.

Describing increasing demand for food grains as a major challenge, the scientists said that against existing production of 257 billion tonnes of grains, the country would have demand of 285 million tonnes and if we failed to increase production substantially the country would have to import grains in 2023.

Focusing of water efficient crops, the scientists said that it was imperative for sustaining human population as annual per capita availability of water resources that was 8192(m3) in the year 1900 is set to reduced to 1235 (m3) in the year 2050. The scientists also discussed coming out with disease resistant crops and making the crops nutritionally enriched.

On this occasion Dr. Deepak Pental, Director, Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants, University of Delhi made a presentation on Genetic modification in crops: its costs and benefits and underlined the need for creating awareness amongst farmers for GM Crops. On this occasion Mr. Gurpreet Singh Sekhon and Mr. K.V.S Sidhu both Progressive farmers also shared their experiences and it was followed by a informed discussion besides queries by progressive farmers who wanted to clear their doubts about quality of genetically modified crops.

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3rd  Technical Session of Progressive Punjab Agriculture summit-2014

·       Seminar on seed potato development Organized

·       Experts Call upon the need to Develop Punjab as a nucleus of seed production in international market

·       Deliberations held on need to develop post harvest handling techniques

Chapparchiri/ Mohali/ Chandigarh February 17:-

                3rd Technical Session of Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit was organized on seed potato development. The session was organized under the Chairmanship of Dr. Gurjeet Singh Kang Ex-Director Central Potato Research Station and panelists from nine different countries including Dr. Romke Wustman, Senior Agronomist, Wageningen University, Dr. Anton Haverkort, Crop Ecologist, Wageningen University, Mr. Marjit Leijten, Director, Netherlands Agro Food & Technology Centre (NAFTC) India, Mr. Jullian Parr, Director Asia CIP, South West and Central Asia SWCA, India, Mr. Jaideep Bhatia Director Agro, PEPSI Co.,  Mr. J.S. Minhas, Director, CPRS, Jalandhar participated.

                Speaking on the occasion Dr. Kang said that Punjab is nucleus of Potato production in the country but it is time to look beyond and expand our horizons internationally. He stressed upon the need to develop post harvest handling techniques.

                Mr. Jaideep Bhatia informed that India is the second largest producer of potato after China producing 40 million metric tonne annually but unfortunately only 3% of the produce is exported. He said that the country has the potential to double the growth as well as the exports but quality seed production in huge amount is challenge. He informed that degeneration in quality occurs due to progressive attack of viruses which is a setback. Highlighting the future strategies, he suggested promotion of the use of drip irrigation in potato cultivation, increasing awareness among farmers to use quality seed material and to come up with the concept of ‘seed village’.

                Dr. Anton Heverkort spoke at length on advancement in seed potato technology and production in the world. He informed that Punjab exports potatoes to various parts of the country but internationally its role is negligible. Giving the example of Netherland , he informed that  it exports 60% of its produce so Punjab can replicate its techniques/technology and venture into international market. He also informed that potato saves water and land and thus this highly suitable in modern days when Punjab needs to follow water efficient /soil conservation techniques. He said that the cost of production of potatoes in Punjab is double that of Netherland so Punjab needs to look into this aspect as well and thereafter march towards becoming an export hub.

                Dr. Romke Wustman presenting a comparative and analytical overview of Holland and Punjab seed system informed that Holland has developed a very strict quality check system involving three intensive inspection phases. He said that after clearing the three quality checks the seed is finally sent to the market but in India federal seed certification agency is lacking. He said only 1% of the seed is certified in Punjab so it is of paramount importance that proper quality checks may be introduced before entering the world market.

                Mr. Marijn Leijten Director Agro Food and Technology Centre Netherland spoke on Indo-Dutch cooperation in potato sector and offered to set up a centre of excellence in Punjab for sharing good agricultural practices. He also stressed on the need to develop post harvest handling and storage methodology. He informed that soon an MoU would be signed for collaboration between India and Holland in this sector.

Later, progressive farmers JBS Sangha and Mr. Sukhjit Singh Bhatti shared their experiences

BADAL TO HONOR EMINENT AGRICULTURAL SCIENTISTS TOMORROW AT PPAS

CM ALSO TO ATTEND TECHNICAL SESSION ON PUNJAB AGRICULTURE: CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD

Chandigarh, February 16-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal would honor eminent scientists from across the country and state, who have made outstanding contribution in different fields of agriculture tomorrow at 4 pm during the second day of Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) at Baba Banda Singh Bahadur War Memorial Chapparchiri, Mohali.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the noted recipients of this award would include Agri-experts Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush, Chairman Punjab State Farmers Commission Dr GS Kalkat, Director General Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) New Delhi Dr. S. Ayyappan and others.   

The Chief Minister would also attend the Technical session on Punjab Agriculture: Challenges and Way Forward on Monday morning at 10 amwhich would be held under the Chairmanship of Director General, Indian Council Agricultural Research, New Delhi, Dr. S. Ayyappan, added the spokesperson.

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POLITICAL LEADERS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY HAIL THE DECISION OF STATE GOVERNMENT TO HOLD PPAS

BADAL’S VAST EXPERIENCE AND VISION EMERGED PUNJAB AS COUNTRY’S FRONT RUNNER STATE IN EVERY SPHERE - RAMAN SINGH

NAIDU LAUDS CM FOR PRO-POOR AND PRO-FARMER STANCE

BADAL A LEADING POLITICAL FIGURE REVERED BY ONE AND ALL- CHAUHAN

AKHILESH YADAV ASSURES FULSOME SUPPORT TO CM FOR CAUSE OF FARMERS

INITIATIVE OF CM WOULD HELP IN FOSTERING TIES OF COMMUNAL HARMONY AND BROTHERHOOD BETWEEN EAST AND WEST PUNJAB- JAVED

BADAL THE FITTEST PERSON TO LEAD THE COUNTRY AS PM- NAGINDER SINGH

AGRICULTURE MINISTERS OF WEST BENGAL AND GUJARAT ALSO COMPLEMENTS THE CM

SAS Nagar (Mohali), February 16-

          Eminent political leaders from across the country today hailed Punjab Chief Minister’s initiative to hold country’s first ever Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) here.  

In his address Chattisgarh Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh lauded the role of state in consolidating the Public Distribution Syatem (PDS) of the country by contributing in national food pool. Terming Punjab as a land of martyrs and farmers he said that the state was a role model for other parts of the country in Agriculture infra structure development especially the superb marketing network it had in the state. Dr. Singh said that Punjab was leading the country in every sphere because of the vast experience and vision of Mr. Badal.

Dr Raman Singh further said that to ensure the well being of the farmers of the country the need of the hour was that keeping aside their political affiliations the peasantry must join hands for their common cause.  The Chattisgarh Chief Minister also laid thrust on linking the MSP with whole sale Price Index so as to benefit the farmers enormously. Taking a leap forward towards strengthening mutual cooperation in agriculture sector he announced that every year mutual delegation from both the states would visit each other to acquaint themselves with the latest and scientific farm practices. Mr. Singh said that a high powered delegation of nearly 1000 farmers from Chattisgarh would soon visit Punjab to update their agricultural skills through interaction with the Punjabi farmers on modern farm practices. He said that the Chattisgarh farmers would richly benefit from the experience and expertise their counterparts in Punjab.  

Speaking on the occasion former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Supremo Mr. Chandra Babu Naidu said that Punjab and Andhra Pradesh shared the ties of hard work, patriotism and honesty. He said that the wrong policies of the Union government have resulted in the reduction of the agriculture production in the country. The former Chief Minister said that in order to eradicate the poverty from the country agriculture production was needed to be enhanced both qualitatively and quantitatively, which would also help the country to avert the trend of slowdown in agriculture economy.

Mr. Naidu said that all the political parties should join hands for making Agriculture a profitable venture. Lauding the Chief Minister for his pro-farming and pro-development vision, Mr. Naidu said that the Telugu Desam Party and SAD shared close ties because of their pro-farmer stance. He bemoaned that country was passing through a crisis as the centre was not taking any interest in agriculture due to which the famers of the country were reeling under a huge debt. He said that in order to save the farmers need of the hour was to make far more budgetary provision for the agriculture at state and centre level generously.

Addressing the gathering Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mr. Shivraj Singh Chauhan described Mr. Badal as a leading political figure of the country who was highly revered by one and all. Saluting the sacred land of Punjab, he said that the valiant Punjabis have defended the country from foreign aggression of and on. He said that the land of Punjab was land of sacrifice and bravery due to which it was rare honor for him to be here. Mr. Chauhan also lauded the hard working and resilient farmers of the state for making nation self sufficient in food production.

The Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister said that the state was trying to replicate the Punjab model and was making rapid advancements in the field of agriculture production. He said that though MP was once considered a BIMARU state but now we were following Punjab to provide better irrigation facilities through lift irrigation scheme and linking of rivers. Mr. Chouhan said that Agriculture must be made a remunerative preposition by reducing input cost and enhancing MSP. Centre had ruined the farmers through their ill conceived policies adding that until the farmers were not paid remunerative MSP the nation would not progress. He said that before fixing MSP the input costs must be minutely observed and it should be fixed while giving 50% profit to the farmers. Mr. Chauhan said that the crop insurance scheme must be revamped and the individual farmer must be considered as an independent unit for assessing the loss and thus granting adequate compensation as now Tehsil was considered as a unit. He lamented that even after more than 65 years of independence the problems of farmers were still rampant adding that it was the high time that the state governments must pressurize the Centre to formulate the policies while interacting with the farmers. He said farmers were more conversant with their problems as compared to bureaucrats who were drafting policies for the former just sitting in cozy offices.

In his address Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mr. Akhilesh Yadav termed the summit as a historic step aimed at ensuring the well being of the farmers of the country. He said that it was a unique occasion when the Industrialists, experts and the farmers of the country have converged on a single platform to change the destiny of the food growers of the nation. Mr. Yadav said that this summit was a stepping stone toward the better cooperation of all these three sectors of the country.

The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said that it was a fact that only those countries in the world have emerged stronger whose farmers have made progress. He said that even Punjab was a progressing state today due to the hard work and resilience of its farmers. Assuring full support to the Punjab Chief Minister for every cause of farmers, Mr. Yadav said that the Uttar Pradesh government was duty bound for this noble cause.            

Speaking on the occasion Agriculture Minister of Pakistan Punjab Dr Farooq Javed said that eastern and western Punjab have several similarities in the agriculture climate, cropping pattern and marketing strategies. He said both these Punjabs could work out a common synergy to mutually benefit there agriculture economies. Dr. Javed stressed on the need of exchange of farmer delegations and agri experts so that the both the states could be immensely benefitted from each other’s vast experience in the farming. Mr. Javed represented the Pakistan Punjab Chief Minister Janaab Shahbaz Sharif who could not attend the summit due to his certain pressing engagements and he sent a message felicitating the Chief Minister for taking this unique initiative which would prove to be a milestone in further fostering the bonds of mutual cooperation, love and bonhomie amongst the people of both the countries in general and states in particular.

Speaking on the occasion Bihar Agriculture Minister Mr. Naginder Singh appreciated Mr. Badal for taking this laudatory step and described him as a stalwart of Indian polity and messiah of farming community. He even said that an eminent personality like Mr. Badal could lead the country as Prime Minister because none else other than him could comprehend the problems of farmers as he could.

In his address Bengal Agriculture Minister Mr. Moyili Ghatak lauded the revolutionary step of holding this summit and said such initiatives offer a healthy platform to the farming community in general and small and marginal farmers in particular to transform their destiny. He said that this summit would be instrumental in evolving a consensus to impress upon centre for chalking out a workable action plan to make the farming not only profitable venture but also remunerative one.

In his address, the Gujarat Agriculture Minister Mr. Babubhai Bokhiriya laid stress on the need to educate and organize the farmers besides making them self reliant. He said that such summits could play a proactive role in this direction and to sensitize the farmers to adopt new and cost effective farm practices to enhance their profitability.

Speaking on the occasion Rajasthan state BJP President Mr. Ashok Parnami said that despite scanty irrigation facilities the state of Rajasthan had enviable position in the production of Bajra, Guar, Soya Bean and pulses. He complemented the Chief Minister for organizing this summit which would offer a healthy platform to the progressive farmers of the northern region to update their expertise through interaction and participation in live demonstrations.   

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BADAL BATS FOR SEPARATE UNION AGRICULTURE BUDGET LIKE RAILWAY BUDGET

CM INAUGURATES FOUR DAY PPAS

APPREHENDS SITUATION LIKE FOOD CRISIS, LAW & ORDER PROBLEM AND EVEN ANARCHY IN WAKE OF DISCRIMINATION WITH FARMERS BY CENTRE

DEMANDS COMPLETE OVERHAUL OF THE AGRICULTURE POLICIES TO BENEFIT PEASANTRY ACROSS THE COUNTRY

EXEMPT LIVESTOCK SECTOR FROM INCOME TAX TO BOOST AGRICULTURE DIVERSIFICATION

JUSTIFIES RATIONALE BEHIND SUBSIDIES TO SUSTAIN AGRICULTURE SECTOR

TERMS PPAS AS A NON POLITICAL INITIATIVE TO PREPARE A ROADMAP TO TRANSFORM THE DESTINY OF BELEAGUERED PEASANTRY

DEPUTY CM CALLS UPON ALL POLITICAL PARTIES TO MOUNT PRESSURE ON CENTRE TO ANNOUNCE FARMER FRIENDLY POLICIES

CENTRE BENT UPON TO RUIN AGRICULTURE WITH ITS REGRESSIVE POLICIES- SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL

CM AND DEPUTY CM HONORS DELEGATES AND EXPERTS IN PPAS

SAS Nagar (Mohali), February 16-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today pleaded the Union government to present a separate Agriculture Budget like the Railway Budget, as 55% of the nation's population was dependent on agriculture.

In his key note address during the ‘Kisan Sammellan’ on the inaugural day of four day Progressive Punjab Agriculture Summit (PPAS) from February 16-19 here at New Vegetable and Fruit market, the Chief Minister said that the core sector of agriculture has been blatantly ignored by the centre thereby disenchanting majority of farmers across the country. He lamented that due to apathetic attitude of the Centre towards peasantry over 1 lakh farmers have left farming and joined other vocations during last one decade in Punjab alone and the Union government must come out with pro-farmer policies to motivate them otherwise this discriminatory approach could endanger the country’s food security besides creating a major law and order problem and even anarchy.

Highlighting the importance of agriculture summit, the Chief Minister said that it was a non political event with a focus on the crisis engulfing the peasantry and farm labour in our country today and to find viable solution for it. He said that India was   predominantly an agricultural country with nearly 70% of our population directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture for livelihood. There was a time when India faced an alarming food crisis and millions of people faced starvation everyday at that time, India had to depend heavily for food on foreign aid. Mr. Badal felicitated the hard working and resilient farmers especially from Punjab who took up the daunting challenge and turned India from food deficit to food surplus country. 

Batting for the beleaguered peasantry, the Chief Minister asked the centre to immediately introduce life and crop insurance scheme for the Farm labour and the farmers. He also advocated that the existing norms of Calamity Relief Fund should also be amended to provide full compensation for the loss of all crops including horticulture as well as live stock. Similarly to boost the diversification of agriculture and encourage the farmers for allied farming activities, Mr. Badal urged the Government of India (GoI) to exempt Live-stock sector from income tax and regard this sector at par with agriculture for this purpose. 

Likewise, the Chief Minister also demanded that Irrigation Plan must be raised upwards and must include maintenance of the entire system from canals to field channels in the state, because it not only resulted in huge wastage of water but also caused the problem of water logging. Emphasising on the need for complete overhauling of the central policies on agriculture in consultation with the States and farmers association, Mr. Badal said that these policies must include government spending on agriculture, irrigation and Agriculture research, providing remunerative MSP for all crops and their assured marketing, agro-processing and specific programmes for small and marginal farmers. He demanded that the investments by GoI in agriculture must be raised to at least 10% of Plan expenditure.

Referring to the absence of assured marketing for most of the farm produce and plight of farmers forthwith, the Chief Minister said that the GoI had declared Minimum Support Price for 24 crops but this promise was fulfilled only for two crops – wheat and paddy. He said that Agricultural marketing infrastructure was weak in most states as there was no central assistance to build this infrastructure, and the progress made by a few states like Punjab was through their own efforts. Mr. Badal further lamented that there was a serious mismatch between the prices of inputs and produce as the costs of inputs like diesel, fertilizers etc, have been rising constantly whereas prices of farmers' produce have not increased accordingly thereby rendering farming totally un-remunerative and unproductive.

The Chief Minister bemoaned that the share of agriculture in national income has also been falling while the percentage of people dependant on agriculture has remained the same. Corroborating his claim, he said that in 1965-66, 65% of the population was dependent on agriculture and it contributed 65% of the GDP but in 2011-12, 55% of the population was still dependent on agriculture but their contribution to GDP had dipped considerably to 27% resulting thereby the farmers and farm labours were becoming poorer day-by-day.

Dwelling on the issue of stagnated MSP, the Chief Minister impressed upon Centre to take into account all the costs incurred by farmers adding that farmers own labour must be counted as skilled labour as he has acquired these special farming skills over generations. He said that actual rent of land, cost of water and electric power should be included in the total input costs of farmers while determining MSP. Underscoring the need to immediately implement the formula of noted agri economist Dr MS Swaminathan, Mr. Badal said that the centre should fix the MSP on the basis of agriculture cost plus 50% as profit.

Realising the pathetic economic position of the farmers, the Chief Minister pleaded that short term credit should be given to the farmer at 4% and this rate should be further slashed to 2% for Farmers owning one acre or less land. Long term finance for capital investment should be made available at 6%, he added.

Outlining the scenario of agriculture diversification in the present context, the Chief Minister said that the diversification could succeed only if there was focus on allied activities like Dairying, Piggery, Fishery, Apiary and goatery besides assuring marketing plus remunerative MSP for all alternative crops. He said that a special Diversification programme for Green revolution states should be started immediately as a part of the Five Year Plan on the lines of Bringing Green Revolution to Eastern India. Likewise Mr. Badal said that food processing should be promoted through encouragement to agro-based industries by credit availability at 6% and heavy capital subsidy. He also asked the Centre to increase the allocation for agricultural research as future growth depends upon new technology and raise the expenditure on agricultural research to 2% of the Agricultural GDP.

Justifying the rationale behind Agriculture subsidies, the Chief Minister said that even the farming was highly subsidized in advanced countries like Canada and the US and this model should also be replicated in India too. He said that the capital investments in agriculture for mechanization and adoption of technology should be liberally subsidized. To bail out the distressed peasantry across the state, the Punjab government was helping the farmers by paying their power bills which amount to nearly 5000 crore annually.

In his welcome address, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal gave a call that all states should come forward on a common platform and launch a unified move to mount pressure upon Union Government to save the farming sector facing enormous crisis. Emphasising the need to make farming and allied sector a profitable profession, Deputy CM said the Union Government should formulate exclusive budgetary provisions to compensate the farmers facing natural calamities since the existing compensation mechanism was not suitable. The disaster relief being provided by the centre to the affected farmers was not equivalent with the prices of agri-inputs.

He exhorted the delegates and agri-experts to prepare a detailed report on the issues and problems of farming community during various sessions in the summit to apprise the Union Government regarding present agri-scenario of country. He said the day-by-day worsening conditions of farming community were the outcome of center's apathetic attitude towards the agriculture sector and farming has become an unprofitable business. This reverse trend was mainly due to the centre’s regressive and anti-farmer policies, which has rendered the farming a non remunerative profession pushing the farmers to commit suicides. He blamed the center for not paying requisite heed to the farmers and asked to revise the procedure for fixing the MSP as it must be linked with the consumer price index to benefit the farming sector.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that the state government has taken landmark initiatives to boost the farming and Punjab was the only state in the country to give free power to the farmers besides excellent marketing network across the state to ensure hassle free procurement of their produce. Apprehending a trend of shunning agriculture profession in view of squeezed margins due to non remunerative MSP in the near future, he asked the centre to do something tangible otherwise it could lead a situation of food crisis. Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal asked the Agriculture dominated states present in the summit to come forward to impress upon on the centre to ensure remunerative MSP, Crop Insurance and upward revision of compensation to the farmers in wake of natural disaster besides granting agriculture infra structure fund to bear the cost of upgradation of dilapidated infra structure. He cited an example of century old canal system which was now in dire need of rejuvenation at a cost of Rs 3500 crore and state alone was not all in a position to fund this project on its own, here centre’s support and intervention was needed to give impetus to the sagging agrarian economy.

Earlier the Chief Minister honoured Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mr. Shivraj Chauhan, Chattisgarh Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mr. Akhilesh Yadav, Agriculture Minister Pakistan Punjab Dr. Farooq Javed, Agriculture Ministers of Bihar, Gujarat and West Bengal, former Chief Minister Andhra Pradesh Mr. Chandra Babu Naidu, state President Rajasthan BJP Mr. Ashok Parnami, former Union Minister Mr. Som Pal Singh Shastri, Agri-experts Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush, Dr GS Kalkat, Director General Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) New Delhi Dr. S. Ayyappan and Director General International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre USA Dr. Thomas Lumpkin.

Editor in Chief of Tribune Mr. Raj Chengappa, Managing Director and Editor in chief Daily Post Mr. Manish Tiwari and Resident Editor Indian Express Mr Vipan Pubby also graced the occasion.

Prominent amongst other present on the occasion included Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SJK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains, Media Advisor to Deputy Chief minister Mr. Jangveer Singh, Director Information and Public relations Mr. Ashwani Kumar besides members Rajya Sabha Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, state BJP President Mr. Kamal Sharma and several Cabinet Ministers, Chief Parliamentary Secretaries and MLAs.