CM FOR A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE CONSERVATION OF SAHIWAL CATTLE

LEADING PAKISTANI SAHIWAL CATTLE BREEDER MR. WATTOO CALLS ON CM

APPROVES TO SETUP SAHIWAL CATTLE BREEDERS SOCIETY

ASKS ANIMAL HUSBANDARY DEPARTMENT TO TIE-UP WITH BRAZIL TO IMPORT SAHIWAL CATTLE SEMEN

ANIMAL HUSBANDRY DEPARTMENT ORGANISES INDO-PAK INTERACTIVE SEMINAR ON THE CONSERVATION OF LIVESTOCK BREEDS 

Chandigarh, July 11-

           In a bid to boost Dairy farming across the state,Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal asked the Animal husbandry department to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan to introduce the high yielding Sahiwal breeds of milch cattle in the existinglivestock on mass scale in the state.

          A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister during a meeting with the leading Pakistani Sahiwal Cattle Breeder Mr. Mohammad Aftab Ahmad Khan Wattoo, who was especially invited by the Animal Husbandry Department to attend Indo-Pak Interactive Seminar on the conservation of livestock breeds hereon Thursday.   Showing keen interest and love for Sahiwal Cows, Mr. Badal also approved to set up Sahiwal Cattle Breeders Society in Punjab that would initiate a vigorous campaign to bring awareness to promote Sahiwal breed for its commercial viability.     On the pursuance of the Chief Minister, Mr. Wattoo who is also the President of Sahiwal Cattle Breeders Society of Pakistani Punjab agreed to provide fulsome support and cooperation for the promotion of indigenous breed of Sahiwal as it was far more disease resistant and adaptable to local climatic conditions. The Chief Minister also directed the Animal Husbandry department to tie-up with the Brazil Government to import semen of the Sahiwal cattle to cater the need of the dairy farmers who intend to rear Sahiwal breed cattle in a big way.

          On the occasion the representative of Vechur Conservation Trust, Kerala Dr. KC Jayan of apprised the Chief Minister about the 'Kasargod' cow breed of Kerala and Medicinal values of its milk. Swami Chinmayanand of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (Nurmahal) and Mr. Baldev Singh representative of Namdhari Sangat Sri Bhaini Sahib also shared their rich experience and expertise regarding Sahiwal Cattle Breed and highly appreciated the initiative and the interest shown by Mr. Badal for the conservation of this breed in the state and termed it as a "revolutionary step in the dairy sector".

          Prominent amongst others who were present on this occasion included Director Research Centre for Conservation of Sahiwal Cattle (RCCSC) Pakistan Dr. Javed Iqbal, Associate Professor Genetics and Breeding of Livestock COMSATS Institute of Information Technology Sahiwal Pakistan, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. G. Vagralingam, Advisor Animal Husbandry department Prof. PK Uppal, Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. KJS Cheema, Director Kasaragod Dwarf Conservation Society, Kasaragod Kerala and Head NBAGR Kerala Dr. DK Sadana.

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IIM TO BE SET UP IN AMRITSAR-SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL

BILL FOR HSGPC-A MOVE TO DIVIDE SIKH COMMUNITY

 UNION BUDGET WILL BRING ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

 AMRITSAR JULY 11: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) for Punjab proposed in the Union Budget would be set up in Amritsar revealed Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal Deputy Chief Minister (DCM) Punjab.

                   In an interaction with media at Information Office, Golden Temple, DCM said that development of the holy city has always been his personal priority and now with the decision to set up IIM in Amritsar coupled with Union Finance Minister’s announcement to include holy city of Amritsar in the New Heritage City Development Yojna have given further impetus to the development of the region.  The step towards completion of the Kolkata-Amritsar industrial corridor would get the much needed impetus, added Mr. Badal.

 He further said that although Dr. Manmohan Singh Former Prime Minister of India belonged to Amritsar but he never worked towards bestowing highly prestigious status on Amritsar. Adding further he said that people of Punjab in general and Amritsar in particular were deeply indebted to the NDA government to have understood the religious and historical significance of Amritsar.

He said that the union budget had spelt the end of an era of discrimination against Punjab at the hands of the Congress led UPA. The UPA government had never bothered to allot any significant project to the state.  “It is for the first time in a decade and Amritsar and Punjab have got its due”, he added.

                   Terming the Union budget as “progressive, growth-oriented and common-man friendly effort” Deputy Chief Minister said that NDA in its maiden budget had proved its sincerity and honesty towards the hard working people of Punjab by rewarding them with a bonanza to usher in an era of economic prosperity and growth in the state.

                   Later replying to a query pertaining Haryana Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, Mr. Badal said that any such move on part of Haryana government would be a clear transgression upon the residual power of the Parliament to make such a law as the existing Board was an Inter-State Body Corporate. He said that the move to divide the Sikhs by creating a separate Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee had been initiated by the Gandhi family as its latest anti-Sikh conspiracy. He said that Congress would not get through its nefarious design to weaken the Sikh community. Slamming the Congress government in Haryana for its proposal to constitute separate body for the management of Gurudwara affairs in the state, the Deputy Chief Minister said that this move was in accordance to age long policy of the Congress party to divide and rule. He said that by initiating this step Congress was again trying to divide the Sikh community, which would not be tolerated at any cost. Mr. Badal said that the SGPC was the supreme body of the Sikhs, which came into existence after countless sacrifices and none would be allowed to bifurcate it.

                   Earlier, Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal along with his better-half, Union Cabinet Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, paid obeisance at the Golden Temple and partook in the bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib. They also reviewed the progress of the ongoing work of the Golden Temple Plaza.

                   Deputy Commissioner, Mr Ravi Bhagat and Commissioner of Police, Mr. Jatinder Singh Aulakh were also present on the occasion.

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Sukhbir Badal gives nod for setting up of state solid waste management authority

(Directs local bodies department to devise “Mission 100 days” plan to ensure sustained development)

(Building plan maps to be digitalized and linked with State Investment Bureau)

Chandigarh July 11: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has approved a proposal to establish a Solid Waste Management Authority with the aim of ensuring efficient disposal of waste in urban areas.

The Deputy CM has also asked the Local Bodies department to formulate a “Mission 100 Days” plan to complete all ongoing works and also fix future targets.

 The landmark decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of senior officers of the department of Local Bodies here today.

The Deputy CM also approved division of the State into eight clusters for establishing of an integrated solid waste management plants. These plants will now come up at Ludhiana, Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bathinda, Patiala, Mohali and Ferozpur.

Mr Badal also asked the department to involve gram panchayats of adjoining villages willing to bond themselves in the ongoing cleanliness drive by the local bodies department so as to make the villages clean and green.

Meanwhile to ensure an end to delays in granting of clearances for building plan maps, Mr. Badal said local bodies should be empowered to hand over clearance certificates. He directed the Secretary local bodies to digitalize record of building plans and link it with the Punjab Bureau of Investment Promotion (PBIP) so that the bureau could give timely approvals to the building plans of new business ventures.

Taking strong exception to the irregularities on the part of contractors in municipal bodies while executing the development works, Deputy CM directed the department that any contractor who was put on the defaulter list for failing to meet the desired specifications would be blacklisted. He said any contractor who was so blacklisted would not be able to apply for any government contracts. He also made it clear that all companies taking up government contracts in Punjab would have to give an affidavit that no blacklisted contractor was an partner in their firm.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Mr. P.S.Aujla, Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr Ashok Gupta Secretary Local Bodies, Mr. Anirudh Tewari CEO PBIP, Mr Priyank Bharti Director Local Bodies, Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu and Mr. Ajay Mahajan both Special Principal Secretaries to Deputy CM. EOM

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                 ‘Census & You’ - A Programme for the School Children’

CHANDIGARH, JULY 11:

          ‘World Population Day’ is an annual event observed on 11th July every year since 1989 and seeks to raise awareness of issues relating to population. Population Census is the most comprehensive source of information for use by the government departments, educational institutions, voluntary organizations, corporate houses, academicians, research scholars and individual data users both within and outside the country. Census data is put in public domain on printed as well as electronic format.

            Apparently, Census data has a great significance for developmental activities and in taking informed decisions. Needless to say, sensitization on Census data released is vital for which various ‘Data Dissemination Activities’ are carried out from time to time. As a part of the efforts to disseminate data from Census 2011, Dr. C. Chandramouli, IAS, Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has drawn a massive programme “Census & You” to sensitize school students. The programme is being implemented in about one lakh schools in the country to expose school students on the significance of Census data.

           Smt Seema Jain, IAS, Secretary to Government of Punjab, Department of Science, Technology & Environment and also the Director of Census Operations, Punjab has said that in Punjab, “Census Week” is being celebrated from 7th to 12th July, 2014in 3,000 schools spreading over all the 22 districts in the State. Lists of schools identified for this purpose have been obtained from the Education Department, Punjab. The objective of the programme is to sensitize students on the significance of Census data. The schools identified for this purpose have been provided with a School Kit. The School Kit Folder consists of items, viz;  A letter to the Principal highlighting purpose of this programme, Message to be read in the School Assembly, Literature, Data Sheets, Census Quiz, Certificate, Census info-graphics India, Census info India pamphlet, Map, Census & You (DVD), etc. The winners of the School Quiz shall also be eligible to take part in an on-line ‘National Quiz Contest’ proposed to be organized in November, 2014. A monitoring system to ensure proper implementation of the programme has also been devised.

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NRI COMMISSION, PUNJAB

 NRI COMMISSION ORDERS THE DC AND SSP GURDASPUR TO ENSURE POSSESSION OF PROPERTY TO DENMARK BASED NRI’S

 ü  DC to submit action taken report till September 23

 Chandigarh, July 11

 The NRI Commission of Punjab has ordered the Deputy Commissioner and   SSP of Gurdaspur district to take prompt action to hand over the possession of rightful property to Denmark based NRI Mr. Sarjit Singh Ahluwalia. They have been also asked to submit the report to the commission regarding action taken to fix the responsibility of the erring officials by September 23, 2014 in that case.

A spokesman of the NRI Commission today said that Mr.  Sarjit Singh Ahluwalia (78) a physically challenged and citizen of Denmark had filed a complaint alleging that he was the owner of land measuring 18 kanal 6 marla situated at H.B. 625 in village Purana Chaawla, Tehsil and District Gurdaspur.  He had submitted that One Gurnam Singh taking the advantage of his (complainant) absence on the basis of forged and fabricated Power of Attorney executed sale deed of the said land in favour of Balkar Singh, Jaspal Singh, Paramjit Singh, Chamkur Singh and Daulat Singh. The complainant said that earlier he had filed a complaint with the Deputy Commissioner of Gurdaspur and in inquiry the forgery was confirmed and the revenue entries of the above mentioned land was reversed in his name. The said findings were confirmed by the Divisional Commissioner, Jalandhar Division using the judicial power of Financial Commissioner, Punjab in its order dated 01.01.2013. However, the said persons taking the advantage of said revenue entries on the strength of said illegal sale deed dispossessed him from his land forcefully and illegally. In his complaint the NRI has demanded police assistance/protection to preclude any personal injury to himself and the revenue official and to maintain peace and his personal safety and to effect the possession of his rightful property.

The Commission has asked the DC and SSP Gurdaspur for immediate action in accordance with law/rules. The DC Gurdaspur has also been asked to inform the  Commission about what action has been taken to fix the responsibility of the erring officials. Besides that the commission has also asked the Principal Secretary (Home), Principal Secretary (NRI Affairs) and DGP Punjab for prompt/appropriate action at their end.

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PUNJAB INTRODUCES ONLINE GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM

• AN ONLINE PORTAL TO FACILITATE THE PEOPLE TO LODGE THEIR COMPLAINTS

CHANDIGARH, JULY11:

            The Punjab government has directed all the departments to provide speedy justice to the people of the state by redressing their grievances in tine bound manner and has come out with the online portal to facilitate the people to lodge their grievances.

            Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of Grievances Redressal department said that the state government has already set up an online portal to redress the complaints by of general public in time bound manner. He said that the people of the state could now lodge their complaints online and check the status of complaints’ online.

            The spokesperson said that written instructions in this regard have been issued all the departments of the state government and the Deputy Commissioners to immediately attend to the complaints received on online portal.

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ENSURE AVAILABILITY OF QUALITY CROPS TO BOOST FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY: KAIRON TO OFFICERS

·        KAIRON PRESIDES OVER STATE FOOD PROCESSING DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL MEETING

·        INSTRUCTS SENIOR OFFICERS TO INITIATE SERIES OF MEETING WITH FOOD PROCESSING ENTREPRENEURS TO REDRESS GRIEVANCES

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 11:

Punjab Food & Civil Supplies and Food Processing Minister Mr. Adaish Partap Singh Kairon today instructed senior officers of the department to initiate the process of meetings with the entrepreneurs of food processing industry to redress their grievances. Presiding over the half yearly meeting of State Food Processing Development Council (SFPDC), a primarily advisory body to chalk out the development course of food processing sector in the state, Mr. Adaish Pratap Singh Kairon said that availability of quality crops is much desired to boost food processing industry in the state besides resolving the problems of the representatives of industries such as basmati, wheat, milk processing units.

Mr. Kairon directed the officer to chalk out a comprehensive plan to ensure the accessibility of quality crop seeds to compete with the international standards. Mr. Kairon mentioned that Punjab Agriculture University must keep in mind the international standards as well as the size and quality of the yield before producing any new rice varieties, so that such verities could be easily exported. He apprised that 33 projects involving grant-in-aid of Rs.19 crore have already sanctioned by the department in the last two years, which involves total project investment of Rs. 55 crores.

Earlier, Mr. S.R. Ladhar, Secretary, Food Processing and Mr. Amit Talwar, Convener-cum state Mission Director, NMFP gave introductory presentation of the activities of Food Processing Department and to apprise them about the status of National Mission on Food Processing (NMFP) in the state and other activities undertaken on this front. SFPDC deliberated upon the key areas of food processing specific to the Punjab and the challenges faced by this sector.

Dr. Paul Singh Sidhu, currently working with World Bank as Consultant informed that scheme of establishing primary processing centre or collection centre can prove very beneficial for the state of Punjab; Minister Kairon informed that adequate attention also has to be given to the social re-engineering aspects, all these projects bring along.

Dr. B.S. Dhillon, Vice Chancellor, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana informed about the research work currently undertaken at PAU for the preservation of fruit crops, potato and onions. He stressed upon that institutional strength should be built up to generate quality researchers and economists. Dr. S.S. Marwaha, CEO, Punjab Biotechnology incubator informed that they have been accredited by APEDA for testing and certifying the agriculture produce for exports including basmati.

SFPDC also acts as an platform for the industry, research institutes, financial institutions, implementing agencies to coordinate their activities in the direction of unified goals set up for the state. This multi-faceted body comprised research scientists, food processing experts, representatives of industries such as basmati, wheat, milk and regional heads of financial institutes as members. Based upon the deliberation in the forum, valuable inputs are given to central/state ministries to lay down new policies or for making amendments to the existing once.

During meeting, the members of SFPDC also agreed that criteria for allocation of funds under Central Scheme should be linked with agriculture produce and surplus stock rather than based upon area or population. They also suggested to take up with MoFPI to grant ‘Kandi Area’ and ‘Border States’ a special status for allocation of funds.

Prominent amongst those, who were present in the meeting included; Mr. Vikram Garg, Secretary, Health Department, S. Jaspal Singh Sidhu, Senior Manager, Nestle India, Mr. B.K. Sood, Director, Fisheries, Mr. Inderjit Singh, Director, Dairy, Dr. Mangal Singh Sandhu, Director, Agriculture, Mr. Suresh Goyal, AGM, SBI and Mr. Survesh Kumar, Project Manager.

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EIL TO SEND TEAM OF EXPERTS FOR CLEANING OF BUDDHA NULLAH

CM HOLDS PARLEYS WITH TOP BRASS OF EIL FOR MAKING RIVER SATLUJ 100% POLLUTION FREE

EIL MULLS FOR INTERCEPTOR SEWERAGE SYSTEM FOR BUDDHA NULLAH ON THE BASIS OF ITS SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION IN RIVER YAMUNA

BADAL SEEKS TECHNOLOGICAL SUPPORT FROM EIL FOR CLEANING OF VILLAGE PONDS

New Delhi, July 10-

          In a bid to make River Satluj 100% pollution free, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today envisaged technical support from Engineers India Limited (EIL) for the cleaning of Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana district, which was posing a biggest threat to the state’s environment and ecological balance.

          The Chief Minister who held a detailed meeting with the top brass of EIL led by its Chairman cum managing Director (CMD) Mr. AK Purwaha, sought the latest and cost effective technology for the cleaning of Buddha Nullah so as to recycle its polluted water for irrigational purposes. He asked the CMD of EIL to dispatch its technical team to visit Buddha Nullah next week along with the officers of the state government, Punjab Pollution Control Board and Municipal Corporation Ludhiana, to study and recommend a viable technology for its cleaning.

On the occasion, the EIL delegation made a power point presentation to apprise the Chief Minister about their gigantic task for abatement of pollution in River Yamuna, through a new technology of interceptor sewerage along Najafgarh supplementary and Shahdara drains in the National Capital Region of Delhi. The team suggested that similar technology would be most suited in all probability in case of Buddha Nullah because the ground realities in both the situations were almost same except that the BOD level in Yamuna was exceptionally high as compared to Buddha Nullah.  

The Chief Minister also sought a time tested technology from EIL for the cleaning of village ponds across the state to ensure the recycling of waste water for irrigational purposes on one hand and to make these villages as environment friendly and pollution free on the other. He also asked for technological support and assistance from EIL for the removal of sullage from these ponds too.

Responding to the issue of Pond cleaning, Mr. Purwaha pledged all technical and consultative support to the state government to get rid to this long pending problem, which was creating huge hindrance in the development of these villages besides posing a major Health hazard also. He suggested a slew of short and long term measures for cleaning of Buddha Nullah citing Health check and augmentation of existing STPs by improving technology besides setting new STPs at Ludhiana as short term measures. Mr. Purwaha pleaded for implementation of Interceptor Sewerage System trapping all untreated flows into Buddha Nullah and setting up newly purposed STPs at suitable locations as long term measures.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Gupta, Secretary Irrigation Mr. KS Pannu, CEO Punjab Water Supply and Sewerage Board Mr. DK Tiwari, Technical Advisor to Chief Minister Major General (Retd.) VK Bhatt and Member Secretary Punjab Pollution Control Board Mr. Babu Lal.

The EIL team was represented by Director Projects Mr. Deepak Moudgill, Head of Department (Environment) Mr. JK Joshi, Head of Department (Water and Waste Management) Mr. Sanjay Mukherjee and Deputy General Manager Mr. Amitabh Budhiraja.

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CM HAILS UNION BUDGET 2014-15

TERMS IT AS PROGRESSIVE, DEVELOPMENT ORIENTED AND COMMON MAN FRIENDLY EFFORT

COMPLEMENTS MODI AND JAITLEY FOR PRO-PEOPLE BUDGET

LAUDS SETTING UP OF A FUND WORTH RS 500 CRORE TO TACKLE INFLATION

APPRECIATES IMPLEMENTATION OF OROP SCHEME FOR EX-SERVICEMEN 

IIM TO GIVE FILLIP TO HIGHER EDUCATION IN STATE

WELCOMES PRO-FARMERS’ INITIATIVES OF NDA

Chandigarh, July 10-

Hailing the NDA Government’s maiden budget presented in Parliament today by the Union Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitely, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal described it as a “progressive, development-oriented and common-man friendly effort”.

In a statement issued here, today the Chief Minister appreciated the pro-people provisions made in the Budget relating to strengthening of rural electrification, human resource development and infrastructure development, stringent control on non-productive expenditure besides initiating steps for the welfare of the weaker sections of society.

While complimenting the Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi and the Union Finance Minister, Mr. Arun Jaitley for presenting a growth-oriented budget, the Chief Minister said that it would help the country to emerge from the financial mess created by the previous UPA government. He said that though the UPA had handed over a trembling economy to the NDA, but the visionary budget presented by Mr. Jaitley would help a lot in ensuring the overall and balanced growth of the country.  

Terming the Budget as a roadmap of New India, the Chief Minister said that it was development oriented besides being reflective of pro-people policies of the NDA government.  He further said that the budget would certainly boost the tempo of all-round development of the country be it in the sector of Agriculture, Industry, Infra structure, Power, Education, Health besides empowering the women and weaker sections of the society. Mr Badal envisioned the current budget as a path breaking initiative taken by the NDA which would go a long way in setting new parameters of growth and development to take the country to a new zenith. “The budget clearly showcases the commitment of NDA to serve the weakest of the weak and poorest of the poor sections of society in the right earnest” added Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minister said that the pro-employee decisions taken in the budget would give much awaited relief to them. He mentioned that by increasing the IT exemption limit from Rs two lakh to Rs 2.50 lakh, PPF limit from existing Rs one lakh to Rs 1.50 lakh, exemption on interest of Home Loan from Rs 1.50 lakh to Rs 2 lakh were the few out of the box initiatives to bring cheers to the Millions of employees, who were overburdened with the sky rocketing inflation during the decade long spell of UPA regime. Likewise, Mr. Badal also appreciated the setting up of a Special fund of Rs 500 crore to tackle the problem of inflation besides fulfilling the long pending demand of the millions of ex-servicemen by granting them One Rank One Pension for which it has allocated Rs 1000 crore.    

Welcoming the decision to set up Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Punjab, the Chief Minister said that it would give the much needed impetus to the higher education in the state. Hailing the NDA Government’s commitment to sustain a growth of 4% in agriculture sector, he said that this would help in safeguarding the interests of the farmers besides ensuring the overall development of this major sector of the economy. Mr. Badal also said that the decision to set aside a sum of Rs 50 crores for the development of indigenous cattle breeds and an equal amount for starting a blue revolution in inland fisheries would help in promoting allied sectors of Dairying and Fishery thereby helping the farmers to supplement their income on one hand and encourage to go for Diversification of Agriculture on the other.

The Chief Minister, while welcoming the pro-farmer initiatives in budget, said that the decision to start “Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana” would immensely benefit the millions of farmers to avail irrigational facilities thereby contributing fairly towards national food security. Appreciating another decision of NDA government to start dedicated Kisan TV, for promoting the interests of the agriculture and allied sector, he said that in current era of technology it would help the farmers a lot by bringing awareness amongst them about the emerging technologies and latest techniques in agriculture practices. Mr. Badal also expressed his pleasure at the allocation of Rs 56 crores to set up 100 mobile soil testing laboratories across the county, which would immensely benefit the farmers adding that the scheme to launch soil health card for every farmer was a revolutionary step.

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CM SEEKS FULSOME SUPPORT OF GoI TO CURB DRUG MENACE IN STATE THROUGH PROMOTION OF SPORTS

CALLS ON UNION MINSTER OF STATE FOR SPORTS

SEEKS CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE FOR HOCKEY AND FOOTBALL IN JALANDHAR AND MAHILPUR RESPECTIVELY

ASKS UNION GOVERNMENT TO RESTORE PRISTINE GLORY OF NIS PATIALA

DEMANDS DEPLOYMENT OF FOREIGN COACHES FOR BUDDING PLAYERS OF THE STATE

SONOWAL LAUDS STATE GOVERNMENT’S CAMPAIGN AGAINST DRUGS

ANNOUNCES TO VISIT PUNJAB AFTER PARLIAMENT SESSION

GoI EXPEDITES PROCESS TO SET UP NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SPORTS COACHING AT NIS

New Delhi, July 10, 2014

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today sought fulsome support and cooperation from the Union government to eradicate the drug menace from the state through the promotion of Sports to channelize the unbounded energy of the youth in a positive manner.

          The Chief Minister, who called on the Union Minister of State for Sports Mr. Sarbnanda Sonowal at his office in Shastri Bhawan here this afternoon, impressed upon him to generously help the state in combating the curse of drugs by funding Sports projects and related infra structure. Mr. Badal apprised the Union Minister that the state government was already making strenuous efforts for promoting sports to check drug addiction in the state but this daunting task could not be accomplished without adequate support of the Union government. He reminded Mr. Sonowal that Punjab has a glorious legacy of producing ace sportspersons in the country and this could be further carried on if the Government of India (GoI) pays special attention for encouraging sports in the state.   

Flagging up another issue, the Chief Minister asked Mr. Sonowal to establish Center of Excellence in Hockey at Jalandhar and that of Football in Mahilpur (Hoshiarpur), as both these places have produced several renowned players of these games and were known as the nurseries of Hockey and Football players.  Mr. Badal said that with the setting up of these centers of excellence both Hockey and Football would get a major fillip, which would be very helpful for the country in making a mark in both these games. He also underscored the need for setting up Center of Excellence for Martial Arts in Sri Anandpur Sahib, so that the traditional games of Punjab could get a big boost.    

Likewise, the Chief Minister urged Mr. Sonowal to revive the pristine glory of National Institute of Sports (NIS) Patiala, which have been eroded due to the callous attitude of the previous Union government over a period of several years. He apprised the Union Minister that the NIS was once the best Sports institute across the country that has produced several distinguished players who have brought laurels for the country adding that the need of the hour was to further strengthen this premier institute so that the glorious legacy of producing world class players from the region could be carried on. Mr. Badal also asked the Union Minister to depute some foreign coaches to the state so that world class training facilities could be provided to the budding players of the region.

Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Mr. Sonowal, while lauding the efforts made by state government to check the menace of drugs, assured him that the Union Government would make every effort to promote sports in the state so as to wipe out the curse of drug addiction from Punjab. He also said that the NIS, Patiala was the leading institute of sports in the country and now the Union government was adding a zing to it by expediting the process to open National Institute of Sports Coaching in it at a cost of Rs 200 crore. The Union Minister also said that the GoI would soon deploy best foreign coaches to the state for imparting training the budding Players so that they could excel in sports.

On the personal invitation of the Chief Minister, Mr. Sonowal also agreed to visit state especially the NIS once the Parliament session was over.

  The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu and Secretary Sports Mr. KS Pannu. On the occasion Director General of Sports Authority of India (SAI) Mr. GG Thompson was also present.

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CM AND DEPUTY CALLS ON SUSHMA SWARAJ

SEEKS HER PERSONAL INTERVENTION TO EXPEDITE THE PROCESS OF BRINGING BACK THE PUNJABIS STUCK UP IN IRAQ

SWARAJ UPDATES CM THAT ALL THE PUNJABIS IN STRIFE TORN IRAQ WERE SAFE

New Delhi, July 10-

          As a follow up to the strenuous efforts of the state government to secure the release of all the Punjabis who were still stranded in war torn Iraq, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, today called on the Union External Affairs Minister Mrs. Sushma Swaraj to further intensify their efforts to ensure their safe and prompt return to their motherland.

          Expressing gratitude to Mrs. Swaraj, the Chief Minister said that he was fully satisfied with the concerted efforts undertaken by the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to secure to safe release of the Punjabis trapped in Iraq. He also apprised, the Union Minister that the distressed family members of these Punjabis had met him a couple of days back and requested him to seek your personal intervention for securing the immediate release of their beloved ones.

Updating Mrs. Swaraj about the elaborate arrangements made by the state government including facilities of free transport, accommodation and food at here at Punjab Bhawan, the Chief Minister said that arrangements have also been made for ensuring hassle free immigration at Immigration Center of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport by deputing two senior officials from Punjab Bhawan round the clock for facilitating the Punjabis returning from Iraq. Mr. Badal also informed the Union Minister that a senior officer of the Secretary rank has been especially deputed to be in regular touch with the tormented families of the Punjabis to update them about any fresh inputs on this count. Likewise, he said that the state government was already giving financial assistance of Rs 20000 per month from its exchequer to the distressed families.   

          Taking part in deliberations, the Union Minister told Mr. Badal that the MEA was keeping a close tab on the entire situation in Iraq 24X7 and said that all the Punjabis were safe there as per the latest available information. She further said that the senior officers of her Ministry were in constant touch with the officers of Indian Embassy in Iraq to ensure the safe and hassle free evacuation of every Indian stuck up in strife torn country. Mrs. Swaraj said that the Ministry had even issued directive to the Indian Embassy in Iraq to issue duplicate passports, in case these were required for their immigration to India adding that clear cut instructions have been issued to officials in Embassy to arrange free air ticket to hapless Indians for their safe return to their motherland.  

          The Chief Minister was accompanied by Rajya Sabha MPs Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder and Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa. 

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 CM THANKS JAITLEY FOR BONANZA TO PUNJAB

LAUDS FOCUS ON SACRED CITY WITH IIM FOR AMRITSAR

·        BUDGET VINDICATES CHARGES OF CONGRESS’S DISCRIMINATION AGAINST PUNJAB:BADAL

·        HARSIMRAT RUES AMARINDER’S ABSENCE DURING BONANAZA FOR AMARITSAR

Chandigarh, July 10-The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today thanked the Union Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley for “the much delayed and deserved bonanza for for Punjab, including the announcements on Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in the state, including holy city of Amritsar in the New Heritage City Development Yojna and expeditious completion of the Kolkata-Amritsar industrial corridor.

Whole hearted welcoming the budget, Mr Badal said that such prestigious projects of national importance had been first time included in the Union Budget presented by Mr. Jaitley. Meanwhile, the Union Minister for Food Processing Ms Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that it was such a painful irony that the Amritsar MP Captain Amarinder Singh remained characteristically absent from parliament when his state and especially Amritsar were receiving the good new from Mr. jaitley. She profusely thanked the Finance Minster for keeping his  state his home town upper most in his mind while presenting the budget. She said that this contrasted with what Punjab used to get under the UPA budgets.

In his statement, the  Chief Minister  said that the budget
announcements spoke volumes of Mr. Jaitley’s love and affection for the  people of Punjab in general and Amritsar in particular Mr. Jaitley had. As a special gratitude to the Union Finance Minister, Mr. Badal today announced that the proposed IIM would be set up in Amritsar. He said that the inclusion of holy city of Amritsar in the New Heritage City Development Yojna would further give impetus to emerge this sacred city as the world class tourist destination. Mr. Badal also said that the completion of Kolkata- Amritsar industrial corridor would also open new vistas of overall economic development in the state besides heralding industrial development in the region. Mr. Badal said that with these announcements his stand against Congress’s step motherly treatment towards Punjab had been vindicated as the UPA government had never bothered to allot any significant project to the state. However, he said that the NDA in its maiden budget had proved its sincerity and honesty towards the hard working people of Punjab by rewarding them with a bonanza to usher in an era of economic prosperity and growth in the state.

In her statement, Ms Harsimrat Kaur Badal thanked Mr. Jaitley for such prestigious projects in the Union Budget, Union Food Processing Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal said that these projects have defied the tall claims of previous UPA government, which merely declared them on paper. She confidently said that now the Kolkata-Amritsar industrial corridor project would finally see the light at the end of tunnel. Mrs. Badal said that NDA in its maiden budget has given Punjab its due share in recognition of its superb contribution in the country’s agriculture production. She said that these development oriented projects marks the ending of the saga of discrimination against Punjab and would silent the detractors of NDA, who were showing apprehensions about the NDA’s sincerity towards the state and its people.

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UNION BUDGET BRINGS TO AN END AN ERA OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST PUNJAB – SUKHBIR BADAL

Chandigarh, July 10: Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today said Union finance minister Arun Jaitely had put an end to a decade of discrimination with an innovative and dynamic budget which would give a boost to agriculture and food processing besides addressing the concerns of all sections of society.

In a statement here, Mr Badal also pointed out that it was the first time in a decade that Punjab as well as the issues relating to the State including agriculture and food processing had been given importance in the union budget. “The earlier Congress led UPA government followed a policy of discrimination against us due to which Punjab has suffered immensely. The clock is finally being reversed with the rail budget witnessing allocation of five new trains to Punjab and now the Union budget which has allocated us an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) besides funds for heritage conservation in Amritsar besides other projects”, he added.

The Deputy CM said establishment of an IIM in Punjab would result in nurturing of top class talent in the State and feed the upcoming corporate sector. He also welcomed the decision to expedite the industrial mapping of the Kolkata – Amritsar industrial corridor and the decision to establish seven smart cities in this corridor. He said this project had the ability to transform the economy of Punjab within a span of few years.

Mr Badal also conveyed his gratitude to Mr Jaitely for including Amritsar inthe National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) for which Rs 500 crore have been allocated. He said this would give a fillip to the ongoing heritage conservation steps being taken by the Punjab government in Amritsar.

He also congratulated Mr Jaitely for understanding the problems of farmers of Punjab as well as the country, by announcing that agriculture loans would now be available to them at an interest rate of seven per cent. He said farmers would also benefit by the introduction of a health card facility for them.

The Deputy CM said the decision to reduce excise duty in the food processing from the present ten per cent to six per cent would give the much desired boost to this sector in Punjab. He said the decision to give a ten year tax holiday to all power companies who start producing and distributing power by March 2017 could usher in an era of cheaper power in the State. EOM

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 SUKHBIR BADAL CALLS ON UNION CIVIL AVIATION MINISTER

·        CIVIL AIRPORT BATHINDA TO BE INAUGURATED SOON- GAJAPATHI RAJU PUSAPATI

·        SUKHBIR BADAL FOR REVIVAL OF PATIALA AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE ENGINEERING COLLEGE

·        INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS FROM EXISTING TERMINAL OF CHANDIGARH AIRPORT SOON

 New Delhi July 10: Union Civil Aviation Minister Mr. Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pusapati today assured to Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal that Civil Airport Bathinda would be inaugurated soon and it would be a gift for the people of Punjab.

During the course of meeting with the Union Minister Deputy CM expressed his gratitude to the NDA government and said that it was a matter of pride for the people of Punjab witnessing unprecedented development in every sphere.

Mr Badal also emphasized the need for revival of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering College Patiala that was facing closure for the last more than two years. He said that the Union Government must review the policy in extending further approval to this state institute at the earliest as this college has been producing quality aircraft engineers for the last 30 years.

The Union Minister also revealed that the Union government was also working out the possibilities of according necessary approvals to various interested airlines for operating international flights from the existing terminal of Chandigarh Airport in view of the huge potential of passengers belonging to the state of Punjab but also from neighboring states. In this meeting Mr. Badal also laid stress on resuming flights from Civil Air Terminals at Pathankot and Sahnewal.

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BIKRAM MAJITHIA HAILS ARUN JAITELY FOR INCLUDING AMRITSAR IN HERITAGE YOJANA

(Says the city would benefit immensely from decision to do industrial mapping of the Kolkata – Amritsar corridor)

(Urges the Union finance minister to establish the IIM allocated to Punjab in Amritsar)

 Chandigarh, July 10 – Punjab Revenue minister Bikram Singh Majithia today hailed Union finance minister Arun Jaitely for giving Amritsar the respect it deserves as a holy city by including it in the new heritage city development yojna as well as taking concrete steps to make the national industrial corridor a reality by announcing that the Kolkata – Amritsar industrial master planning would be completed expeditiously.

“Never before have such twin largess been bestowed on Amritsar before”, said Mr Majithia while reacting to the union budget in a statement here. “We are filled with a deep sense of gratitude that the religious and historical significance of Amritsar has been recognised and it has been included in the Rs 500 crore National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY). This will give a fillip to the ongoing heritage conservation steps being taken by the Punjab government in Amritsar and truly put Amritsar on the world map”, he added.

The Revenue minister while thanking Mr Jaitely for his large heartedness and clear sense of purpose to develop Amritsar as a heritage city as well as give its economy a boost, said the national corridor would result in the development of infrastructure and smart cities which would transform the economy of the Majha region as well as the State. He said it was heartening that the national industrial corridor would finally be taken up for completion in stark contrast to being a paper project only during UPA rule.

Mr Majithia also noted that the union budget had spelt the end of an era of discrimination against Punjab at the hands of the Congress led UPA government which had many ministers from Punjab but did nothing for the State. “It is for the first time in a decade and Amritsar and Punjab have got their due”, he added.

The Revenue minister said it was appreciable that the Union budget had looked into the concerns of Punjab and come out with steps to mitigate them. He welcomed the decision to establish an IIM in Punjab, which he said would have a catalytic effect on student intake in the corporate sector. “This was a project which was long overdue and I am sure the student community is in raptures following this announcement”. He said he would like the project to come up in Amritsar and would personally meet Union finance minister Arun Jaitely and urge him to allocate this premier institute to Amritsar. EOM

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 PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA CONSTITUTES 13 COMMITTEES FOR 2014-15

CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:

Dr. Charanjit Singh Atwal, Speaker of Punjab Vidhan Sabha notified the constitution of 13 committees for the legislative work for the year 2014-15.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha said Mr. Pargat Singh has been named as Chairman of Public Undertaking Committee, Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma as Chairman of Question and Reference Committee, Mr. Jagmohan Singh Kang as Chairman of Public Accounts Committee, Mr. Dinesh Singh as Ex-Officio Chairman of House Committee, Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur as Chairman of Government Assurance Committee, Mr. Maheshinder Singh as Chairman of Library Committee, Mr. Deep Malhotra as Chairman of the Privileges Committee, Justice Nirmal Singh as Chairman of Welfare Committee, Mrs. Harchand Kaur as Chairperson of Paper Laid Committee, Mr. S.R. Kaler as Chairman of Petition Committee, Mr. Manoranjan Kalia as Chairman of Subordinate Legislation Committee, Mr. Gurpartap Singh Wadala as Chairman of Estimates Committee and Mr. Harpreet Singh has been nominated as Chairman of Local Bodies Committee. 

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Punjab Government directs colleges to exempt admission fee from schedule caste students   : Ranike

Post Matric  Scholarship  fee to be deposited directly to colleges.

  CHANDIGARH July 10:

     Punjab goverment has directed all the colleges/institutions not to take admission fee from all those students who are eligible for scholarship under post Matric Scholarship Scheme from schedule caste students.

Disclosing this here today Welfare Minister S. Gulzar Singh Ranike said that payment  would be made by the government directly to the colleges. He said that parents’ having annual income of 2.50 lakh would be eligible to get these scholarships.  He said that 2.64 lakh students of 2000 institutions were being given scholarship for the year 2012-13 from out of the sanctioned amount of non-refundable fees. He also said that Rs. 31.75 crore has also been released during the year 2013-14 for this purpose. He said that maintenance allowance will not be included in the fee

He further said that the scheme would prove to be beneficial for the students going for Diploma Certificate, Degree courses, Professional Courses. The Minister has directed the Secretary and Director of Welfare Department to issue instructions to the  educational institutions immediately not to take fee from SC students at the time of admission.

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INSTRUCTIONS TO CLEAR WASTE MATERIAL FROM ELECTRICAL DUCTS AT SECRETARIAT

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:

In order to avoid any untoward incident, the Punjab General Administration Department has instructed all the departments to clear the waste material from the electrical ducts in Punjab Civil Secretariat-1, Chandigarh.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesman said that despite various reminders, most of the departments have yet not cleared the waste material dumped near the electrical ducts. He said that all departments have been instructed not to keep anything in the ducts and approach to the ducts must be cleared from encroachments caused by furniture and almirahs’. He said that in case of any mishap, the concerned department would be held responsible.

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HIKE IN UNIFORM RATE OF DRIVERS ON THE CARDS: THANDAL

·        PRINTING AND STATIONERY DEPARTMENT SOUGHT CONSOLIDATED REPORT FROM ALL DEPARTMENTS WITHIN FORTNIGHT

CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:

The Punjab Government has been contemplating to hike in the uniform rate of the drivers, working under different departments except those working in Punjab Roadways.

Disclosing this here, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal, Minister for Printing and Stationery Department said that all the departments have been asked to send the consolidated report of the drivers, working in their respective departments. He said that the various drivers’ unions have been requesting the Punjab Government to increase the rates of the uniforms. He said that during the meeting with the delegation of the drivers’ unions, the state government had assured them to consider the hike sympathetically. He said that in this backdrop, all the departments have been asked to furnish the consolidated report, including the strength of the drivers. Mr. Thandal said that the report must also indicate the financial liability and other aspects.

The Minister further said that in the face of this demand, the departments have again been told to send the final consolidated report on prescribed performa within fortnight. He said that after the receipt of the reports, this case would further be forwarded to the Finance Department for further necessary action.

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PUNJAB NOTIFIES ZIRAKPUR AS SUB TEHSIL

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:

The Punjab Government has notified the formation of Zirakpur Sub-Tehsil.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Revenue, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management Department said that formed under Section-5 of Punjab land Revenue Act, 1887 (Act 17 of 1887), this new sub-tehsil has been notified within Dera Bassi Tehsil of SAS Nagar district with headquarter at Zirakpur, comprising one Kanungo circle, 8 Patwar Circle and 34 revenue villages, with immediate effect.

He said that besides Zirakpur as Kanungo Circle, 8 Patwar Circles i.e. Bhabat, Lohgarh, Singhpura, Dhakauli, Chhat, Bhankharpur, Mubarikpur and Sundran and 34 villages/revenue estates Bhabat, Zirakpur, Lohgarh, Baltana, Himatgarh, Gajipur, Nagla, Singhpura, Ramgarh Bhuda, Bishanpura, Dyalpura, Nabha Sahib, Dhakauli, Bishangarh, Sanoli, Peer Muchhaila, Bir Peer Muchhaila, Kishangarh, Chhat, Kishanpura, Naraingarh, Bir Chhat, Satabgarh, Bhankharpur, Meerpur, Bakarpur, Mubarkpur, Daffarpur, Pandwala, Morthhikri, Kakrali, Sundran, Kheri and Haibatput have been included in this new Sub-Tehsil Zirakpur.

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OFFICER DESIGNATED TO RECEIVE ANSWERS FOR ASSEMBLY SESSION

CHANDIGARH, JULY 10:

The Punjab Government has today designated an officer to collect the answers of questions to be asked during 8th session of 14th Punjab Vidhan Sabha. Disclosing this here, Mr. Ved Parkash, Secretary, Vidhan Sabha Secretariat said that concerned department could deliver their answers pertaining to the questions to be asked by Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), to Mr. Sarvjeet Singh Mahla, Senior Assistant after the office hour and on holidays. Meanwhile, Mr. Ved Parkash has asked all the departments to furnish the detail of Officer to coordinate for such matter.

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PUNJAB TO LAUNCH AWARENESS DRIVE TO EDUCATE STUDENTS AGAINST SEXUAL EXPLOITATION: DR CHEEMA

·        RMSA PUNJAB ORGANIZED ONE DAY SEMINAR

·        280 EDUCATION OFFICERS AND TEACHERS SENSITIZED ABOUT POCSO

·        AWARENESS IS KEY TO PROTECT STUDENTS AGAINST SEXUAL ABUSE

MOHALI, JULY 10:

            Punjab Education minister Dr. Daljit Cheema today inaugurated one day Seminar on Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) organized by RMSA at Manav Mangal School, Mohali. In his inaugural speech Dr. Cheema said," Education Department would soon launch awareness Campaign in schools to educate students against sexual offences and they would also be educated about laws formulated against such crimes.

            Referring to the incident happened in a Government school at Ludhiana, the Minister said that such offences were a blot on our society. He further said that POCSO was formed to protect children from sexual offences but lack of awareness among people was the cause behind such offences. Divulging the details Dr. Cheema said that 280 education officers and teachers would be sensitized regarding offences against children and women.

            He further said that the officials trained here would conduct awareness sessions at their concerned districts schools thereafter. Minister added that education department is very much concerned about such offences and department further accelerate its efforts against it. He said that education institutions were as pious as religious places in our society so any incident of sexual offence in schools would not be tolerated. He instructed teachers that they should impart moral teachings in students along with school education.

            Earlier, principal secretary of education department Mrs. Anjali Bhawara welcomed all the delegates and said that, "this seminar of department would be helpful in protecting children and women against sexual offences. In first session joint director of national institute of public corporation and children development Dr. tejinder kaur also threw light on the various aspects of POSCO which included information of compensation and pervasive law to curb all such incidents.

            On this occasion minister also released a Charter which provided detailed information about beneficiary schemes of department and book titled 'career guidance and counseling' by author Preetinder kaur. DEOs of 22 districts, 110 Principals and 130 Teachers took part in this seminar.

            Prominent among others who were present on this occasion included Chairperson of School Education Board Mrs. Tejinder kaur Dhaliwal, DPI (Secondary Education) Mrs Darshan Kaur , Director SCERT Mrs. Pankaj Sharma, Additional Director Mr. Bhagwant Singh,  Director Manav Mangal Smart School  Sanjay Sardana, Principal Neena Peter , DEO (Secondary Education) Mr. Meva Singh Sandhu and DEO Mr Gurjeet Singh.

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CM OKAYS DRUG DE-ADDICTION AND REHABILITATION CENTRE IN SECTOR 66, SAS NAGAR

·       GMADA ASKED TO TRANSFER 2.77 ACRE LAND TO THE STATE HEALTH DEPARTMENT

CHANDIGARH, JULY 09

          In a bid to further intensify its ongoing efforts for the elimination of drug menace from the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave nod to set up a state-of-the-art Drug de-addiction and Rehabilitation Center at Sector 66, SAS Nagar, (Mohali) over an area of 2.77 acre.

          Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that on the directions of Mr. Badal, the Chief Administrator GMADA would transfer 2.77 acre of land in Sector-66 free of cost to the Health & Family Welfare, Department for this purpose.

          It may be recalled here that the state government had planned to construct 22 Rehabilitation Centres, one in each district across the state, to enable the drug addicts to lead a normal life with a sense of dignity and self respect. The drug addicts after treated in drug de-addiction centers would be rehabilitated by imparting skill development training in different vocations, in these upcoming centers, so as to make them gainfully employed.

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GoI TO GRANT RS 25 CRORE ANNUALLY FOR UPCOMING ICONIC HERITAGE AND TOURISM PROJECTS IN THE STATE

VIRASAT-E-KHALSA TO GET THIS GRANT FOR COMPLETION OF ITS SECOND PHASE IN CURRENT FISCAL

BADAL SEEKS SPECIAL ALLOCATION FOR STATE IN VIEW OF SPLENDID PERFORMANCE FOR GLOBALLY SHOWCASING CULTURAL HERITAGE

NAIK LAUDS CM’S VISION TO PROJECT PUNJAB AS A GLOBAL TOURIST DESTINATION

CLEARS MEGA SIKH TOURISM CIRCUIT ENCOMPASSING AMRITSAR-DERA BABA NANAK-SULTANPUR LODHI

PROMPT CLEARANCE OF FOOD CRAFT INSTITUTE IN HOSHIARPUR ON CARDS

GoI TO EXPLORE POSSIBILITY OF SETTING ANOTHER IHM IN STATE

New Delhi, July 9-

          Recognizing the concerted efforts made by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to perpetuate the rich cultural legacy of the state, the Government of India (GoI) today agreed to grant Rs 25 crore to the state every year as financial assistance for the upcoming iconic heritage and tourism projects across the state.

          A decision to this effect was taken by the Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Affairs Mr. Shripad Yesso Naik in a meeting with the Chief Minister, who called on the former at his office in Transport Bhawan here this afternoon.

          During the meeting, the Chief Minister apprised Mr. Naik about the efforts being made by the state government to preserve and highlight the rich cultural heritage of the state by constructing Virasat-e-Khalsa Memorial at Sri Ananpur Sahib, which was daily visisted by nearly 10000 visitors. Likewise, he also apprised the Union Minister about the state-of-the-art Museum cum Panorama center coming up at Shri Valmiki Tirath in Amritsar, where Bhagwan Valmiki ji had created the great epic and masterpiece Ramayana. Mr. Badal also told the Union Minister that in order to showcase the supreme sacriufices made by the Punjabis in the national freedom struggle, the state government was coming up with Jang-e-Azaadi memorial at Kartapur near Jalandhar.

The Chief Minister also informed Mr. Naik about the War Heroes Museum being constructed by the state government in Amritsar to highlight the sacrifices made by the Punjabis in Armed forces and showcase the gallantry spirit of Punjab. Mr. Badal also envisaged special allocation of funds for its ongoing tourism and cultural heritage project as state had made remarkable progress in showcasing the glorious cultural heritage not only at national but at international level also.   

          Lauding the efforts being made by the state government to acquaint the younger generations about their glorious history, the Union Minister assured Mr. Badal that the Union government would soon sanction nearly Rs 25 crore every year for the projects listed by him. He said that the GoI would release this amount to fund the completion of second phase of Virasat-e-Khalsa in Sri Anandpur Sahib. Assuring fulsome support and cooperation from the Union government in this noble cause, Mr. Naik said that the GoI was fully committed for developing Punjab as a major tourist destination at world level.

          Aceding to another demand of the Chief Minister, Mr. Naik assured him that the Ministry would sympathetically look into the matter of setting up skill centers across the state under its ‘Hunar Se Rozgaar Tak’ program. Mr. Naik also assured the Chief Minister that he would soon get the state government’s proposal of Food Craft Institute at Mithra in Hoshiarpur district thoroughly examined to ensure its expeditious clearance. Likewise, he also assured Mr. Badal that the feasibility of setting up another Institute of Hotel Management in the state, similarly on the pattern of already existing one at Gurdaspur, would also be explored to enable youth to avail tremendous job opportunities in the Hospitality sector. The Union Minister also informed Mr. Badal had already cleared the proposal of Mega Sikh Tourism Circuit encompassing Amritsar-Dera Baba Nanak-Sultanpur Lodhi under its scheme of Mega Projects.   

Meanwhile, accepting the invitation extended by the Chief Minister, Mr. Naik agreed to visit Virasat-e-Khalsa at Sri Anandpur Sahib- the birth place of Khalsa very soon.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Secretary Tourism Mrs. Raji P Srivastva and Resident Commissioner Punjab Bhawan Mr. K Siva Prasad.

Apart from these Secretary Tourism GoI Mr. Parvez Dewan and Secretary Cultural Affairs Mr. Ravindra Singh also attended the meeting.  

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BEDI FOR WELL KNIT AND COORDINATED APPROACH TO ERADICATE MENACE OF DRUG ABUSE

LAUDS CM FOR LAUNCHING CRUSADE AGAINST DRUGS

BATS FOR ALTERNATIVE SYSTEM OF MEDICINE LIKE HOMEOPATHY, AYURVEDA AND UNANI ALONG WITH THE ALLOPATHY TO TREAT DRUG ADDICTS

DRUG ABUSE TO BE ERADICATED FROM STATE WITHIN ONE AND HALF YEAR- BADAL

STATE COMMITTED FOR SAVING YOUTH FROM CLUTCHES OF THIS CURSE

New Delhi, July 9-

          Social Activist Mrs. Kiran Bedi IPS (Retd.) today called for well knit and coordinated approach to eradicate the menace of drug abuse in Punjab by roping in the services of social and volunteer organizations besides focusing on synergy amongst Policing, Enforcement, Drug de-addiction and Rehabilitation.

Mrs. Bedi, who called on the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to share her experience and expertise to curb this curse here at Kapurthala House this afternoon, apprised Mr. Badal that she had waged a war against drug abuse in Tihar Jail to reform the inmates who were habitual drug addicts. She further said that the state government alone could not get the desired results unless they involve the families of these victims for their proper counseling. Mrs. Bedi underscored the need for the concept of family counseling and said that trained family counselors should be engaged to handle such persons, with a sense of belongingness, care and respect instead of rebuking them as drug addicts. 

The former IPS officer also mentioned that state government should engage the services of NGOs like Rotary, Lion Club and Inner Wheel to make this campaign far more effective and result oriented. She also emphasized the need to treat the drug addicts through alternative system of medicine like Homeopathy, Ayurveda and Unani along with the Allopathy. Lauding the initiatives taken by the Chief Minister to tackle this grave problem efficaciously, Mrs. Bedi said that the upcoming Rehabilitation Centers in all the districts of state was a revolutionary step to enable the drug addicts to lead a normal life with self respect and dignity.

She stressed on the need to equip these rehabilitation centers with the skill development facilities in the trades like electrical repair, plumbing, Information and Technology and others. Likewise, Mrs. Bedi also highlighted the significance of sports to encourage these reformed youth to take up sports so that their unbounded energy could be channelized in a constructive manner. The former IPS Officers said that all the stake holders in this crusade including state administration, Police, NGOs and Civil Society should play a proactive role to smear the blot of drug addiction from the face of Punjab.

Later on interacting with Mrs Bedi, the Chief Minister welcomed her vital inputs on drug de-addiction and rehabilitation and invited her to join the state government in this great mission. Mr. Badal informed her that it was the top most priority of the state government to save the youngsters from this menace adding that he was confident that the problem of drug abuse in the state would be wiped out forever within next one and half years. He asked his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu and Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan to incorporate suggestions put forth by Mrs. Bedi in making the state Board on Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation and subsequent societies registered in all the districts broad based by ensuring the membership to the representatives of reputed NGOs and activists of civil society.         

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Inspector General of Police (Narcotic Cell) Mr. Ishwar Singh, Special Secretary Health Mr. Vikas Garg and Resident Commissioner Punjab Bhawan Mr. K Siva Prasad   

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SUKHBIR BADAL CALLS ON RAILWAYS MINISTER-SEEKS REGULAR COAL SUPPLY TO PUNJAB

· APPRISES MINISTER THAT HALTED COAL SUPPLY CAN LEAD TO FOOD CRISIS

· INSISTS THE NEED TO INCREASE COAL AVAILABILITY TO STATE

· GOWDA ISSUES DIRECTIVES FOR BEST POSSIBLE SUPPORT AND COOPERATION FROM RAILWAYS

· DEPUTY CM APPRECIATES RAIL BUDGET FOR INCLUSION OF PUNJAB AFTER A LONG TIME

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NEW DELHI/CHANDIGARH, JULY 9: Punjab Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal today held a special meeting with Railways Minister Mr. D.V. Sadananda Gowda here to seek regular coal to Punjab to ensure smooth and uninterrupted transplantation of paddy in the state.

Mr. Badal, who also holds the Power portfolio, also sought uninterrupted coal supply from the enhanced coal allocation quota from Central Coal Field. The enhanced supply was approved recently by the coal ministry following a representation by chief minister Parkash Singh Badal.

The Deputy CM, who was accompanied by Secretary Power Mr. Anirudh Tewari and Chairman Powercom Mr. K.D. Chaudhary, briefed the minister about the constraints faced in transportation of coal to the State in rail wagons. He also pointed out that Punjab was a major producer of paddy and that the entire transplantation operation could only be sustained by providing uninterrupted power supply to peasantry. He said halted coal supply could not only hit the paddy season but also lead to a crisis situation.

Mr. Badal informed the Minister that next 15 days are very critical for the state in view of ongoing paddy season and late monsoon. He also demanded that the legitimate coal share of Punjab should also be made available to it without any cuts. He said the State was also in need of additional coal linkage for the Lehra and Bathinda Thermal Plants and Railway should ensure mandatory coal supply besides accelerating the coal transportation from mines to rail head.

Extending gratitude on behalf of Punjab Government, the Deputy CM thanked Mr. Gowda for announcing new trains for Punjab including Delhi-Bathinda Shatabadi, Saharsa-Amritsar Jan Sadaharan Express, Nagpur-Amritsar AC Express weekly, Ferozepur-Chandigarh Express and Delhi-Pathankot high speed train. Mr. Badal told the minister that Punjab had been discriminated against by the earlier UPA government which did not meet any of its needs for new rail projects.

After hearing the demands of the Deputy CM, Mr. Gowda issued an on the spot directive for regular coal supply through railway rakes to Punjab besides ensuring best possible support and cooperation to Punjab from the Ministry. The Minister also asked Mr. D.P. Pande, Member Traffic to resolve the issues as early as possible so that the farmers would not have to suffer in the ongoing paddy season.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting Mr. Anirudh Tewari, Secretary Power, Mr. K.D. Chaudhary, Chairman Powercom, Dr. V. Ponnuraj, PS to Railways Minister.

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  PUNJAB RELEASES 26.39 CRORE UNDER SHAGUN SCHEME TO THE BENIFICIARIES- RANIKE

 Committed to ENSURE DISBURSAL OF SHGAUNS BEFORE MARRIAGE: RANIKE

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

          Punjab Government today released Rs.26.39 crore to be disbursed as Shagun to 17594 Scheduled Caste girls that was due up to May, 2014. 

Disclosing this here today, Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike Scheduled Castes/ Backward Classes Welfare Minister said that government has already issued instructions to disburse Shagun of Rs. 15000 directly in the bank account of beneficiary brides before the marriage date. He said that an outlay of Rs.98.80 crore was provided in under Shagun Scheme during the year 2012-13 and Rs.152 crore was provided during the year 2013-14 out of which Rs.90 crore were for the new applicants and Rs.62 crore for pending cases.

         The Minister said that SAD-BJP Government has streamlined the Shagun disbursal process to the eligible girls belonging to Scheduled Castes, Christians, Backward Classes and Economically Weaker families or in the case of remarriage of widows and divorcee beneficiaries belonging Scheduled Castes. 

            He said that now the beneficiaries would have to apply for availing this scheme 30 days before commencement of marriage completing all the necessary formalities. He said that the applicants would file their applications with the District/Tehsil Welfare Officers and it would be their duty to disburse the amount in the bank account of beneficiaries in stipulated time frame. He said that Punjab Government has taken this decision to provide prior financial help to the families before marriages of their wards and to make the scheme more transparent.  

            He said that applicants, who would apply for the scheme before 30 days of marriage, can get the benefit in given time frame and the other cases would automatically become invalid and the amounts would be transferred in the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Online Banking Management System.  

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE TOILETS TO ALL VILLAGE HOUSEHOLDS

Chandigarh, July 9: The Punjab Government has strengthened its drive to provide sanitation facilities to village households through the sanctioned Rs. 20 crore to construct toilets free of cost in rural areas for the families living below the poverty line.

          A spokesman of the Rural Development and Panchayat Department said that the proposal of the department has been approved by the Punjab Government with an aim to provide sanitation facilities to needy classes of the society. Asides from providing increased proximity of these facilities, rigorous efforts would be made to ensure the proper maintenance and upkeep of the same.

          Earlier Rs. 94 crore had also been spent by the Punjab Government to construct 80689 toilets in villages. He said that the department has set an ambitious target to provide toilets to all BPL families by December 2015 and the department has sought the reports from all BDPO’s about the need as constructing toilets in villages falls under their jurisdiction. The Government remains committed to battling the practice of open defecation, a practice which leads to dire consequences for public health i.e. increased incidences of cases/deaths caused by preventable diseases like diarrhea or hepatitis.

          Calling the sanitation facilities critical to ensure human development as well as a step towards women safety, the spokesman has also said that all BDPO’s have also been asked to ensure quality of construction under their personal supervision. 

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PUNJAB & HARYANA HIGH COURT CONDOLES THE DEMISE OF JUSTICE S.S. DEWAN

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

 The Punjab and Haryana High Court convened a Full Court Reference to condole the sad demise of noted Justice, jurist and legal luminary Mr. Justice S.S. Dewan, Former Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court in which all the judges of High Court, former judges and family members of Justice Dewan took part.

While sharing the grief, the Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court Mr. Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul said that Justice Dewan was man of outstanding ability, humility and courtesy with humane approach in every field and with the demise of Justice Dewan the legal fraternity has lost a great human being and legal luminary.  Two minutes silence was also observed to pay homage to the departed soul.

The other dignitaries, who paid tributes to the departed soul included; Mr. Ashok Aggarwal Advocate General, Punjab, Mr. B.S. Rana Additional Advocate General of Haryana, Chairman, Punjab and Haryana bar council and President, High Court Bar Association etc. It is pertinent to mention here that Justice Dewan expired on June 29, 2014.

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PUNJAB TOLD DEPARTMENTS TO SEND THE LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS REGARDING ASSEMBLY SESSION

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

            The Punjab government has directed all the departments to send their legislative business for the 8th session of the 14th Legislative Assembly, starting on July 15 well in time to the Vidhan Sabha Secretariat.

            Disclosing this here today, a spokesman of the Parliamentary Affairs department said that the Punjab Government has asked the departments to prepare the detailed report of the business/paper/ reports/ordinance to be tabled in the Punjab legislative assembly during the budget session and send it in advance directly to secretary Punjab Vidhan Sabha.

            The spokesperson said that the written instructions in this regard have been sent to the all departments.

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PUNJAB ANNOUNCED ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAM

CHANDIGARH, JULY 09:

Punjab Irrigation Department has announced rotational Program for irrigation for the Kharif Season through canal water from 09-07-2014 to 16-07-2014. The channels and branches off-taking from Ropar Head Works, the channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab canal, Patiala Feeder and Abohar Branch, respectively.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Irrigation Department said that Direct Distributaries of BML, in Group A, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group B.

            He said that Punjab channels and branches off-taking from Harike and Ferozpur Head Works, all the Direct Distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group A, being in first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries/minors, in Group B.

            The spokesman further said that the in the Upper Bari Doab Canal system, Sabhroan Branch with its distributaries, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in Kasur Branch Lower, Main Branch Lower and Lahore Branch with their distributaries, respectively.

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VIGILANCE BUREAU, PUNJAB

VIGILANCE FILES 5 CHALLANS IN DIFFERENT CASES DURING JUNE

·        9 OFFICERS CAUGHT RED HANDED WITH BRIBE MONEY

·        HON’BLE COURTS PRONOUNCED SENTENCE IN 2 ANOTHER BRIBERY CASES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

            The Punjab Vigilance Bureau in its anti corruption campaign has done commendable job in the month of June, 2014. During this month, the Bureau has completed the inquiry in various cases, subsequently; challans of five cases were filed before the Hon’ble courts.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau said that during the month of June, 2014, Nine officers/official were caught red handed accepting bribe. Two criminal cases were also registered whereas one case of disproportionate assets was also registered in the month of June.

            The spokesman further said that during the hearing of another cases filed by Vigilance Bureau, the Hon’ble courts have pronounced sentenced to the culprits in two bribery cases. He said that Vigilance Bureau has also initiated fresh inquiries in thirteen other cases.

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EDUCATION MINISTER SUSPENDS SCHOOL HEAD AND 2 TEACHERS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

         The Education Minister of Punjab Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema today suspended Head Mistress Joginder Kaur and two other teachers Tarwinder Kaur and Yojna Sharma of the Government High School Sanet (Ludhiana) with immediate effect taking serious cognizance of the case of rape of a minor student in the school premises during school timing.

          In a press communiqué the Education Minister termed this incident as serious crime which was committed in the school premises. He said that this kind of incident is a blot on the education system. He asked the District Education Officer (Secondary Education) to further probe the matter deeply and put up the detailed report at the earliest.

          The Minister further said that school heads would be directly responsible for any kind of such anti social activities. He said that the maintenance of discipline in the school premises is sole responsibility of school head. He said that in case of any negligence in the discipline, the erring head of the school would have to face the music.

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VIGILANCE NABS LAND MORTGAGE BANK MANAGER ACCEPTING RS.10,000 AS BRIBE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 9:

The Vigilance Bureau, Punjab (VB) has today caught a Manager of Land Mortgage Bank, Ghanaur red-handed with the bribe money of Rs.10,000.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the VB said that the complainant Mr. Ranjit Singh of Village Mandiana in Ghanaur Tehsil has alleged that the Tarwinder Singh Walia, Manager of Land Mortgage Bank, Ghanaur (Patiala) was demanding Rs.10,000 as illegal gratification to release second installment worth Rs.2 lacs of loan. The spokesperson said that complainant has been sanctioned loan amounting to Rs.5 lacs from Land Mortgage Bank, Ghanaur, out of which a sum of Rs.3 lacs has been released to him through cheque as first installment and the balance amount worth Rs.2 lacs was yet to be released.

Acting on the tip of complainant, a trap was laid by the team of Vigilance Bureau, Patiala headed by Inspector Randhir Singh and arrested accused Tarwinder Singh Walia red-handed, while accepting bribe of Rs.10,000 from the complainant in his office. He said that after the recovery of bribe money from his pocket, a case under section 7 and 13 (2) of Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 was registered against the accused at Vigilance Police Station, Patiala.

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PUNJAB ROLLS BACK HIKE IN PRICE OF BLOOD UNITS: JAYANI

RS 300 FIXED PER UNIT BLOOD FOR THE PATIENTS IN GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS

RS 750 FIXED FOR PATIENTS IN PRIVATE HOSPITALS.

Chandigarh, July 9: The Punjab Government today decided to roll back the increase in the rate of blood units keeping in the view of public interest.

Disclosing this here today Mr. Surjit Kumar Jayani said that this decision has been taken in meeting with the senior officials of the Health & Family Welfare Department here today. Mr. Jayani said that earlier Rs 500 was fixed per unit of blood for the patients admitted in the government hospitals and Rs 1450 was fixed for the patients of private hospitals. He said that but keeping in demand of blood in hospitals these rates have been again revised and now Rs 300 has been fixed per unit blood of patients in government hospitals and Rs 750 for private hospitals.

Mr. Jayani further said that Punjab Government is providing free generic essential drugs to all patients in all government hospitals across the state. He also gave strict instructions to all doctors to prescribe free medicines available at government drug stores to the patients. He said that doctors should not unnecessarily harass people by prescribing medicines which were not available free at government hospitals. He said that free drugs are being supplied to the hospitals as per their demand from the regional drug warehouses established in Majha, Malwa & Doaba regions. All details regarding supply and purchase of drugs was being maintained online through a specialized software. 

          Mr. Jayani said that free medicines are available at all District Hospitals, Special Hospitals, Sub Divisional Hospitals, Community Health Centres, Primary Health Centres and Sub Centres. Apart from this these medicines are also available at Subsidiary Health Centres (Rural Dispensaries) managed by Department of Rural Development and Panchayat through Zila Parishads.

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CM GIVES NOD TO CONSTRUCT A BHAWAN AFTER THE NAME OF LEGENDARY SIKH MARTYR BHAI MANI SINGH

BAAZIGAR AND TAPRIVAS COMMUNITY BOARD TO BE RECONSTITUING

BADAL REITERATES COMMITMENT FOR WELFARE OF WEAKER SECTIONS OF SOCIETY

Chandigarh, July 8, 2014

          Acceding to the demand of the Baazigar and Taprivas communities, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave his nod to construct a Bhawan after the name of legendary Sikh martyr Bhai Mani Singh.

          A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister in a meeting with the delegation of Punjab Baazigar Front, who called on him today morning at CMO, under its President Jathedar Labh Singh Devinagar.

          The Chief Minister directed the Secretary Social Welfare to co-ordinate with the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) for selecting a suitable site to construct this Bhawan. He also asked the officer to complete the necessary formalities in this regard at the earliest so that work on this project could begin soon.

          The Chief Minister also announced to reconstitute the board for the Baazigar and Taprivas communities so as to further ensure welfare of these communities. He said that while reconstituting the board, all the aspects like its aim and ambit would be defined. Mr. Badal also said that this Board would act as an Advisory Board to the state government for ensuring the overall development of these communities.

          Referring to the demand raised by these communities to include them in the list of Schedule Tribes, the Chief Minister said that the state government has already sent the case regarding it to the Union government adding that he would personally take up this matter with the Centre for its immediate resolution.

          The Chief Minister, while reiterating the firm commitment of the state government to ensure all-round development of these communities, said that no stone would be left unturned for their well being. He said that the SAD-BJP government was fully committed for the development of the weaker sections of the society.

          The delegation expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for patiently hearing them and resolving them their demands.

          Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Minister Mr. Gulzar Singh Ranike, Secretary Social Welfare Mrs. Seema Jain, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma and Director Social Welfare Mr. Paramjeet Singh.  

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CM SEEKS SUPPORT FROM NAIDU FOR DEVELOPING FISHERY IN THE STATE

WRITES TO ANDHRA PRADESH CM FOR DEPUTING A TEAM OF EXPERTS TO ADVICE PUNJAB ON FISH HATCHERIES, FISH REARING AND POST HARVEST TECHNOLOGY

BADAL DESCRIBES ANDHRA PRADESH AS ONE OF MOST EVOLVED STATES IN FISH PRODUCTION

Chandigarh, July 8, 2014

In a bid to promote fish farming across the state in a big way, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has impressed upon his Andhra Pradesh counterpart Mr. Chandra Babu Naidu to depute a team of experts for visiting the state and advice the Punjab government on the matter pertaining to fish hatcheries, fish rearing and post harvest technology.

In a letter to Mr. Naidu, the Chief Minister, while lauding the role of Andhra Pradesh in Fish farming, termed it as one of most evolved states in fish production. He apprised the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister that Punjab was one of the foremost states in fisheries with highest per hectare fish production adding that the state government has recently launched a pilot project of raising modern fish farms over an area of 600 acres. Mr. Badal said that these would act both as a model as well as demonstration farm for prospective fish farmers.

Envisaging the whole hearted support and cooperation of the Andhra Pradesh Government in ushering in an era of blue revolution in the state, the Chief Minister said that Punjab would be immensely benefitted from the vital support of Andhra Pradesh in harnessing the biggest potential from this sector. 

Pertinently, with the traditional agriculture in the state reaching a stage of plateau, the Chief Minister has laid special focus on the diverfsication of agriculture through promotion of allied sectors like Dairy and Fishery. Mr. Badal has been focusing on the development of Fisheries particularly in the waterlogged districts of south western Punjab, where the presence of brackish water had been adversely affecting the prospects of agricultural production, for supplementing the income of the farmers of the state. In order to encourage fishery in the state, he has recently announced to enhance the subsidy from 40 to 50 percent for setting up new fish farms in the state.

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CM REVIEWS FLOOD PROTECTION WORKS

MAJITHIA ASSURES CM OF REVENUE DEPARTMENT’S READINESS TO FACE ANY EVENTUALITY FROM FLOODS

Chandigarh July 08:

           The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked the Finance department to release requisite funds to all the deputy commissioners to combat any eventuality arising out of the floods in the current monsoon season.

           Mr. Badal was presiding over a meeting with the deputy commissioners of the state to review the progress of flood protection works here at Chief Minister’s Office this morning.  

           The Chief Minister asked the Secretary Irrigation to ensure the strengthening of flood protection works at vulnerable sites in consultation with the concerned deputy commissioners on priority.  Secretary Irrigation apprised the Chief Minister that there was 43% below normal rain in the state from June 1 to July 7 and the monsoon was likely to be normal between 13 to 20 July according to the information received from metrological department.  He said that the water level except Ranjit Sagar Dam which was 8.20 Ft. higher than the last year level, whereas both Bakhra and Pong Dam were 15.97ft and 20.89ft below the last year mark of 1626.14ft and 1335.17ft respectively.  He also informed Mr. Badal that the finance department has already released Rs.45 crore for the flood protection measures. 

Meanwhile, the Financial Commissioner Revenue told the Chief Minister that all the deputy commissioners had been allotted Rs.2 lakh each for their districts for making advance arrangements and Rs.10 lakh for meeting any sort of emergency.   

Taking part in the deliberations, Revenue & Rehabilitation Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia assured the Chief Minister that the department was fully geared up to face any eventuality arising out of floods.  He asked the FCR to keep close liaison with all the deputy commissioners to sort out any hardship faced by them in getting the flood protection works executed.   

Prominent amongst others who attended in the meeting included Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, FCR Mr. NS Kang, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vini Mahajan and Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. KJS Cheema.

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91 MORE PUNJABIS RETURN TO THEIR MOTHERLAND 

·        OFFICERS UPDATE CM ABOUT THE LATEST SITUATION

New Delhi, July 8-

Due to the persistent efforts of the Punjab government 91 more Punjabis returned back to their motherland from the war torn Iraq on Tuesday morning.

 These Punjabis returned from strife torn Iraq at New Delhi through special flights due to the constant efforts of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who was closely monitoring the entire situation and being regularly updated by the senior officers, especially deputed to ensure safe and hassle free return of these Punjabis.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office said that as per the information received from the office of Resident Commissioner, Punjab Bhawan New Delhi, out of these 91 Punjabi youth who arrived here at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport by Tuesday morning, 24 hail from Hoshiarpur, 12 from Gurdaspur, 10 from Kapurthala, nine from Jalandhar, eight from Amritsar, seven from Ludhiana, four each from Pathankot and Tarn Taran, three each from Nawanshehar, Sangrur and Ropar, two from Moga and one each from Fathegarh Sahib and Patiala districts.  

The spokesperson reiterated that Mr. Badal was keeping a close tab on the situation and the Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal has been asked to ensure hassle free immigration clearance of the persons returning from Iraq. Likewise, two officers of Punjab Bhawan have been deployed at immigration section of IGI Airport 24x7 to ensure free transportation facility to the Punjabis coming from Iraq so that they could safely reach at their native places in the state. 

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BADAL HAILS UNION RAILWAY BUDGET

·       DESCRIBES IT AS GROWTH ORIENTED AND PASSENGER FRIENDLY  

·       NDA’S MAIDEN RAILWAY BUDGET AIMED AT PROPELLING ALL ROUND DEVELOPMENT AND PROSPERITY IN THE COUNTRY 

·       SUKHBIR TERMS RAIL BUDGET AS A 'DREAM BUDGET' FOR PUNJAB  

·       WELCOMES DECISION TO SET UP FOOD COURT AT AMRITSAR 

CHANDIGARH JULY 08:

           The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today welcomed the proposals of the Union Railway Budget for the year 2014-15 and described it as   growth oriented and passenger friendly which would propel all round development and prosperity in the country. 

           In a statement on the NDA’s maiden Railway Budget, presented by the Union Railways Minister Mr. DV Sadananda Gowda in which he introduced 58 new trains, the Chief Minister hailed the initiative of the Union Government to put Indian railways firmly on the track of development.  Mr. Badal said that Prime Minister Mr. Modi’s brainchild to introduce Bullet Trains in the country would put India on the global map of world class railways and the day was not far off when India would be reckoned internationally as a front runner nation amongst the high speed railways. 

The Chief Minister also welcomed the announcement to start five new trains including Saharasa–Amritsar Jansadharan Express, Nagpur–Amritsar (Weekly), Ferozepur–Chandigarh Express (6 days a week) and New Delhi ­Bhatinda Shatabdi Express (Bi­weekly) besides three others passing through Punjab namely Indore–Jammu Tawi Express(Weekly), Kamakhya–Katra Express(Weekly)via Darbhanga and  Kanpur–Jammu Tawi Express (Bi­weekly), whereas  54602 Ludhiana–Hissar Passenger has been extended to Sadulpur. Mr. Badal said that these trains would certainly boost trade and commercial activity in the state besides providing rail connectivity to the land locked state of Punjab.  He also complimented the Centre’s unique initiative for the modernization of railway infrastructure besides taking path breaking decisions like the recruitment of 4000 women constables to ensure safety and security of women passenger and providing Wifi internet at select stations and in trains. 

            The Chief Minister also appreciated the decision of introducing a special pilgrim train covering the entire Sikh religious circuit joining all the five Takhats across the Country.

        Meanwhile, the Punjab Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal termed the budget as a dream budget for Punjab as it has given state's overdue share. Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that Railway was a life line of the Indian economy and our Visionary Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi has put his stamp on the budget aiming to transform the fortune of Railways. Mr. Badal also said that announcement of Public –Private partnership to strengthen the infrastructure in railway was a step towards modernization of British era network.

Thanking the Prime Minister of India and Union Railway Minister Mr. Sada Nand Gaura by giving the due of Punjab after a decade, Mr. Badal said that announcement of new five trains for Punjab would provide better railway connectivity to the other parts of the country, necessary for the growth of any state. Besides that announcement to establish world class food court at Amritsar Railway station would give a fillip to the tourism sector in the border region, he added.

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HARSIMRAT BADAL SAYS VOICE OF BATHINDA HEARD AFTER A DECADE

(Thanks Railway Minister D V Sadananda Gowda for New Delhi – Bathinda Shatabdi express announcement)

 Chandigarh, July 8 – Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal today said the voice of Bathinda had been heard after a decade at the centre with the Union rail minister announcing a New Delhi – Bathinda Shatabdi express in the rail budget.

In a statement here, the Bathinda mp said “I am thankful to Railway minister Sadananda Gowda for not only acceding to my request for a bi weekly Shatabdi train from Bathinda to Delhi but also for announcement of four more new trains to Punjab. “Never before has Punjab’s name been mentioned so many times while unveiling the Rail budget”, she said adding it was unfortunate that Punjab had to wait for a full ten years for an NDA government before its just demands for new trains was met.

            Mrs Badal said the rail budget was a reflection on not only the manner in which politics had been set aside for the first time to allocate new projects on a need basis, but also for the first ever genuine attempt in a decade to reform and restructure the behemoth organisation. “The NDA government has come out with a forward looking budget which looks into issues like starting Bullet and tourist trains, setting up of a railway university, ultra sonic system to detect problems in track, introduction of wifi services, cctv coverage to monitor cleanliness activities and many more issues. The railways is on the threshold of becoming a truly professional organisation again”, she added while congratulating Railway minister Sadananda Gowda for coming out with a progressive and balanced budget keeping in view the needs of all regions”. EOM

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1 BIG RELIEF TO INDUSTRY-PUNJAB TO ALLOW POWER CONNECTION TO SECOND UNIT WITHIN PREMISES OF EXISTING INDUSTRIAL PLOT

 SUKHBIR BADAL ASSURES INDUSTRIALISTS TO RESOLVE ALL ISSUES SYMPATHETICALLY

 DIRECTS PPCB NOT TO SEAL ALL BUILDING, IF FOUND POLLUTED EFFLUENTS FROM AN INDUSTRIAL UNIT

 ANNOUNCES TO MEET INDUSTRIALISTS, TRADERS AND BUSINESS HOUSES EVERY FRIDAY AT CHANDIGARH

 Chandigarh, July 8: Giving a big relief to the industry the Punjab government today resolved to release power connections to the tenants having manufacturing units within the premises of an existing industry. This landmark decision was taken by Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today in a meeting with a delegation of Chamber of Industrial and Commercial Undertakings (CICU) Ludhiana here today.

In a meeting with office bearers of CICU, who were here to call on Deputy CM regarding their long pending demands, Mr. Badal after patiently hearing their issues asked Chairman POWERCOM Mr. K. D. Chaudhary to submit a proposal to state government for reframing electricity policy to release power connection to second commercial unit established within the premises of existing unit.

The members of delegation apprised Deputy CM that industry department has no objection on operation of more than one manufacturing unit in a same plot, building or premise while in PSPCL parameters that it was ‘illegal use of electricity’. The Deputy CM assured the industrialists and issued directions to CMD Powercom to in this regard.

Interacting with industrialists, Mr. Badal also directed Chairman Punjab Pollution Control Board not to seal the entire industrial unit if it was releasing polluted effluents. Mr. Badal said only that machinery, which is causing pollution, be seized not the entire machinery in the premises.

Following the interaction, Mr Badal said he would consider the demand of industrialists for Input Tax Credit. He has formed a committee to look into the issue comprising of Excise and Taxation Commissioner, Special Principal Secretary to Deputy CM Mr. Ajay Mahajan, Advisor to CM Mr. Maheshinder Singh Grewal and Industrialists from the Chamber.

Mr Badal also assured the industrialists that he has taken a decision to have personal meetings with industrialists to know the ground realities and the requisite decisions according to their demands. He said he would be available on every Friday at his office for this purpose and industrialist, traders and business houses can meet him.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting Sharnjit Singh Dhillon Irrigation Minister, Maheshinder Singh Grewal Advisor to CM, P.S, Aujla Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Anurag Verma Excise and Taxation Commissioner, Mr. Ajay Mahajan Special Principal Secretary to Deputy CM, Mr. Avtar Singh, President CICU, Mr. Manjit Singh Khalsa, Vice President, Mr. Upkar Singh, General Secretary, Mr. Charanjit Singh Vishavkarma President United Cycle Parts Manufacturers Association, Mr. Avatar Singh Bhogar, Vice President, Mr. Yashpal Gupta, President Steel Traders Association, Mr. Joga Singh and Mr. Kulwinder Singh Benipal of President Focal Points Association.

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MALUKA HOLDS FIRST MEETING WITH CHAIRMEN AND VICE CHAIRMEN OF ZILA PARISHAD

  DIRECTS ZILA PARISHAD TO STRIVE HARD IN TAKING RURAL PUNJAB TOWARDS NEW HORIZONS

 Chandigarh July 8:

Punjab Rural Development and Panchayat Minister S. Sikander Singh Maluka met the chairmen and vice chairmen in a state level meeting at Vikas Bhavan . He asked Director C.Siban to constitute a committee to address their grievances and ensures the relative hike in honorarium allowance. Mr. Gurpreet Singh Maluka, Mr.  Kultar Singh Brar, Mr.Tarshinder Singh Pannu , Bibi Amarjit Kaur and Mr. Jasbir Singh Deol would be the members of this committee.

This is first state level meeting of S. Maluka after taking charge as Rural Development Minister.He urged them to strive hard in taking rural punjab to new horizons of development and progress.He also said that chairmen and vice chairmen have been given full rights to ensure provision of basic and essential amenities of heath and education to the people of rural area.

Referring to the posts in rural dispensaries and Panchayati schools, Mr. Maluka said that these posts would be filled. He also said that dilapidated buildings of department would be renovated and new buildings would also be constructed. The minister asked deputy commissioners concerned to ensure the participation of Panchayati School in primary school games. He also said that the Punjab government was contemplating to jointly organize the primary rural sports in consultation with Zila Parishad.

Laying emphasis on working strictly in Punjabi in government offices, Mr Maluka said that anybody found not working in official language would be dealt with swiftly and strict actions would be taken against the erring. He also asked chairmen and vice chairmen of Zila Parishad to enhance its resources to generate more income which would be spent exclusively on rural development activates in state. He also sought support from them towards eradication of drugs so that healthy and drug free punjab could be evolved. S. Mantar Singh Brar Chief Parlimentary secretary Rural Development and Panchayat, C. Siban Director and senior officers of Rural Department were also present on this occasion.

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GoI TEAM ASSURES ALL SUPPORT AND COOPERATION TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT IN ITS MISSION TO CURB DRUG MENACE

• THREE MEMBER DELEGATION LED BY JOINT SECRETARY CALLS ON CM
• BADAL SEEKS CENTRAL FUNDING FOR DRUG DE-ADDICTION
• ASK CENTRE TO CHECK THE TRAFFICKING OF POPPY HUSK THROUGH RAJASTHAN BORDER IN PUNJAB

CHANDIGARH JULY 07:

            A three-member delegation from Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, GoI led by its Joint Secretary Mrs.Ghaza Meenai pledged all support and cooperation to the state government in its mission to make Punjab a drug free state. 

An assurance to this effect was given by Mrs. Meenai to the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal during her meeting with the later at Chief Minister's residence this morning. 

Taking part in deliberation, Mrs. Meenai apprised the Chief Minister that she would thrash out all the issues after detailed deliberations with the Principal Secretary Health and Secretary Social Security to work out modalities for funding the drug de-addiction centers under the guidelines of 'Central Sector Scheme of Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse and for Social Defence Services'.  She informed the Chief Minister that the Ministry could easily fund the running cost incurred on the drug de-addiction as per the guidelines of the scheme instead of allocating funds for infrastructure.  She however, said that the Ministry would certainly look into the state government's proposal to be submitted after the preliminary discussions from all the angles to bail out the state in its crusade against the drug abuse.  She further said that the issue of giving grants to the registered drug de-addiction and rehabilitation societies at the district levels separately or collectively would also be thoroughly examined after threadbare discussions with the state departments of Health and Social Security. 

Expressing gratitude to Mrs. Meenai for the positive outcome of the discussions in the meeting, the Chief Minister said that the state had already fighting a war against drug abuse with a missionary zeal and the financial assistance from Centre at this critical juncture would give a big boost to bring our campaign, for elimination of drug menace at its logical end.  He also sought Centre's help to dissuade the Rajasthan government for allowing open sale and trafficking of poppy husk and other narcotics freely in our state which ultimately derailed our efforts to curb this menace with heavy hand, adding he said that the GoI should intensify its efforts to effectively check the free flow of poppy husk from across Rajasthan border into Punjab.  He hoped that Centre could here play a pro-active role by asking the Rajasthan government to ban the open sale of poppy husk. 

The delegation would also visit the Drug De-addiction Centres at Jalandhar and Amritsar to take stock of the situation besides seeking inputs from the Civil Surgeons about their functioning.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema besides Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinni Mahajan and Secretary Social Security Mr. Jaspal Singh.  The other members of the delegation from Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment who attended the meeting included: Under Secretary Mr. Rajesh Kumar Sinha and Director SPYM Dr. Rajesh Kumar.

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NEWLY CONSTITUTED SHAHKOT AND LOHIAN MARKET COMMITTEES GET NEW CHAIRMEN, VICE CHAIRMEN AND 30 MEMBERS

CHANDIGARH JULY 07:

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today nominated Mr. Charan Singh and Mr. Bawa Singh as the Chairmen and Mr. Sadhu Ram and Mr. Kamaldeep Singh as Vice Chairmen besides 30 members of Shahkot and Lohiana Market Committees respectively in district Jalandhar. 

           Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office, said that 15 members of the newly constituted Market Committee, Shahkot included; Jasbir Singh, Harvinder Singh, Malkiat Singh, Nirmal Singh, Surinder Singh, Balwinder Singh, Sadra, Piara Singh, Mrs.Kuldeep Kaur, Devinder Kumar Sharma, Krishan Lal Taneja, Jeet Singh, Gulzari Lal, Sukhdev Singh and the concerned Block Development & Panchayat Officer as the government member. 

Likewise, Inder Singh, Kulwant Singh, Chanan Singh, Baldev Singh, Bhagwan Singh, Bagicha Singh, Mrs. Rajwinder Kaur, Balkar Singh, Inderjit Gupta, Balwinder Singh, Balkar Singh, Rajesh Sharma, Charan Das, Kamaljit Singh and the concerned Block Development & Panchayat Officer as the government member comprised the Market Committee Lohian. 

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CM ASK SECRETARIES TO FULLY DRAW FUNDS OF RS.500 CRORE UNDER VARIOUS RIDF PROJECTS FROM NABARD BY END OF CURRENT FISCAL 

·         NABARD CGM ASKS GOVT. TO COMPLETE THESE PROJECTS ON PRIORITY WITHOUT ANY FURTHER DELAY

CHANDIGARH JULY 07:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today asked all the departments and implementation agencies to fully draw funds to the tune of Rs.500 crore sanctioned under various ongoing RIDF projects by NABARD positively before the end of current fiscal. 

            Presiding over a high level meeting with the senior officers of the NABARD led by its Chief General Manager Mr. Naresh Gupta and of state government here at CMO this morning, Mr. Badal said that the top priority should be accorded to accomplish these projects by 31st March, 2015.  The Chief Minister said that it was all the more important and urgent for these departments to get RIDF XII & XIII projects completed on priority by the stipulated dead line as most of the projects may not be allowed to spill over in the next fiscal as hinted by the NABARD authorities. 

            The Chief Minister was apprised that the unaccomplished projects included; soil and water conservation (Rs.70.80), water supply and sanitation (Rs.75 crore), PWD (Rs.132 crore), education (Rs. 22 crore) animal husbandry and dairy development (Rs.53 crore), Punjab mandi board (Rs.137 crore) and Irrigation (Rs.65 crore).  He asked the concerned secretaries to get these funds released immediately from the NABARD to ensure timely completion of the already sanctioned projects on the top priority. 

            In a bid to further intensify the efforts for ensuring overall development and prosperity in the state, the Chief Minister also directed the administrative Secretaries of different departments to prepare detailed project reports under RIDFXX of nearly Rs.700 crore for onward submission to NABARD for getting requisite funds released for these development projects expeditiously. 

            Taking part in the deliberations, Chief General Manager NABARD Mr. Naresh Gupta listed the pending projects already sanctioned by the bank and asked the concerned departments/agencies for their prompt completion without any further delay.

            Prominent amongst others who attended the meeting included: Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry Mr. G.Vajralingam, Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vinni Mahajan, Principal Secretary Education Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Secretary Expenditure Mr. Jaspal Singh, Secretary PWD Mr. PS Aujla, Secretary Mandi Board Mr. Deepinder Singh, Special Principal Secretaries to CM Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, MD Punjab Agro Mr. KS Pannu, Director Technical Education Mr. V.Pursartha, General Manager NABARD Mr.LR Ramachandram and Manager NABARD Mr. Rakesh.

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CM TO AGAIN MEET SUSHMA SWARAJ FOR EXPEDITING RETURN OF PUNJABIS FROM WAR TORN IRAQ

DELEGATION OF DISTRESSED FAMILIES OF PUNJABIS TRAPPED IN IRAQ LED BY MAJITHIA CALLS ON CM

SPECIAL ENVOY OF INDIA ASSURES BADAL THAT ALL THE 39 PUNJABIS WERE SAFE

MAJITHIA LAUDS CM FOR MAKING CONCERTED EFFORTS TO SECURE RELEASE OF PUNJABIS IN IRAQ

 Chandigarh, July 7-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today said that he would again meet the Union Minister for External Affairs (MEA) Mrs. Sushma Swaraj soon, to impress upon her for expediting the process of bringing back 39 Punjabis trapped in the Mosul region of the war torn Iraq.

          An assurance to this regard was given by the Chief Minister to a delegation of the family members of these Punjabis, who called on him under the leadership of Revenue, Information and Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, this afternoon at Punjab Bhawan.

          The Chief Minister said that he was personally keeping a close liaison with the Union Government, officers of MEA and the special envoy of India to Iraq Mr. Suresh Reddy to ensure safe and prompt return of every Punjabi stuck up in strife torn Iraq. Expressing satisfaction over the efforts made by the Union Government in this regard, he exhorted the distressed families to have faith on the Government of India (GoI), which was not leaving any stone unturned for safely evacuating every single Indian from Iraq. Mr. Badal also assured them that on its part the state government was making strenuous efforts to expedite the process for release of next of their kin, who were trapped in Iraqi civil war.

          On the occasion, the Chief Minister also spoke to Special Envoy of Indian Government to Iraq Mr. Suresh Reddy over phone, to have the latest update over this issue. Mr. Reddy informed the Chief Minister that all these 39 Punjabis were safe and the GoI was exploiting all the diplomatic channels for ensuring their early release. The Special envoy also apprised Mr. Badal that they were also in touch with the owner of the factory where these workers were employed, so that they could be evacuated at the earliest.

          Meanwhile on the pursuance of the Chief Minister, Mr. Reddy also had telephonic conversation with a family member of these Punjabis and assured her that the GoI was making all out efforts to ensure the safe release of their family members.

          Interacting with distressed families, Cabinet Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia lauded the Chief Minister for making concerted efforts to bail out these panic stricken families from the crisis. He said that probably these families were only across the country to have one to one dialogue with the Union External Affairs Minister Mrs. Sushma Swaraj, several times adding that the credit for it goes to campaign launched by Mr. Badal for the safe release of every Punjabi. Mr. Majithia further assured fulsome support and cooperation from the Punjab government to them.

The delegation comprising of Hardeep Singh, Balkar Singh, Tarsem Singh, Shira, Sardara Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Gurmej Singh, Satpal Singh, Baljinder Singh, Sukhdev Singh, Balwinder Singh, Raj Kumar, Balwinder Kaur, Ronki Ram, Prem Singh, Mukhtar Singh, Jagdish Kumar, Gurdev Lal, Jeet Ram, Hans Ram and Kewal Singh also thanked the Chief Minister and Mr. Majitia for initiating steps to bring back their family members back to their motherland.                   

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, former Union Minister Mr. Balwant Singh Ramoowalia, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Prof. Sarchand Singh.

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18 MORE PUNJABIS ARRIVE BACK HOME FROM STRIFE TONE IRAQ

SEVEN YOUTH OF HOSHIARPUR, SIX OF KAPURTHALA, THREE OF JALANDHAR AND TWO OF SHAHEED BHAGAT SINGH NAGAR RETURN BACK HOME IN A SPECIAL FLIGHT

OFFICERS UPDATE CM ON ENTIRE SITUATION

NEW DELHI JULY 7:

As many as 18 Punjabis returned from strife torn Iraq at New Delhi last night through special flights due to the persistent efforts of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, who was closely monitoring the entire situation and being constantly updated by the senior officers, especially deputed to ensure safe and hassle free return of these Punjabis.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's office said that as per the information received from the office of Resident Commissioner, Punjab Bhawan New Delhi, of 18 Punjabi youth which arrived here at Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday evening, seven belonged to Hoshiarpur district, six to Kapurthala, three from Jalandhar and two hailed from Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshahr) district.

Meanwhile,   Gurpreet Singh, Balwinder Kumar & Ashok Kumar from Jalandhar district, Omkar Singh, Harish Kumar, Aman Deep Singh, Rajiv Kumar, Amrik Singh, Narinder Singh &  Chaman Lal from Hoshiarpur district, Kulwinder Singh, Harjowan Preet Singh, Jaspal Singh,  Kuldeep Singh, Baljit Ram & Paramjit from Kapurthala district, beside Vijay Kumar and Balwinder Kumar from Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district) have arrived at Delhi yesterday. 

The spokesperson further said that Mr. Badal was keeping a close tab on the situation and the Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal has been asked to ensure hassle free immigration clearance of the persons returning from Iraq and two officers of Punjab Bhawan have been deployed at immigration section of IGIA 24x7.  These officers have already been instructed to ensure free transportation facility to the Punjabi coming from Iraq so that they could safely reached at their native places in the state. 

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 PUNJAB PREPARES 100% ONLINE BUDGET- DHINDSA

AMONG FEW STATES OF INDIA WHICH HAVE COMPLETELY AUTOMATED PLAN FORMULATION AND BUDGET PREPARATION PROCESSES

USING INTEGRATED FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (IFMS) FOR THE THIRD YEAR IN A ROW

CHANDIGARH, JULY 7:  Punjab is now among a handful of states in India to have completely automated Plan Formulation and Budget Preparation processes, using Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) for the third year in a row now. Though it would be the third time that the state would achieve this feat, there are many innovative enhancements made this time around.

Divulging the details, Mr. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Finance Minister, Punjab said that introduction of the performance budget in this year's planning outlay is the key highlight of the Budget (FY 2014-15). The performance budget (also called the Outcome Budget) seeks to link the planning schemes to their outcomes. It would be a landmark financial reform which shall enable the state in monitoring the outcome of the planning outlays allocated to different plan schemes and weed out the non performing schemes. In addition Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) has also been able to achieve a seamless integration between the plan outlays (prepared by the State Planning Board) and the plan budgetary outlays (prepared by the Finance Department), which ensures the accurate depiction of different components of the plan outlay in the budget books.

 A spokesperson of the Department informed that Plan Formulation and Budget Preparation typically begin with departments sending online proposals to the Finance Department and the State Planning Board for the Planning outlays and Budget respectively. The users in the Finance Department and the Planning Board then scrutinize the proposals based on the real-time information of expenditure in the current year and budgetary outlays of the previous year and discreetly decide upon the coming year's outlay.

He said that the IFMS, web application developed and supported by Tata Consultancy Services, has not only enabled the Punjab’s Finance Department and the State Planning Board to prepare Budget Books and Plan Documents online and shed their dependence on the paper driven processes but also integrate the Disbursement and the receipt from the state treasuries and present the real-time picture of the state's public finance to the decision makers.

 “Punjab is now a pioneer state in devising new processes and embracing the web based technology in managing its finances” he added.   

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PUNJAB TO RENOVATE 14 GOVERNMENT FISH SEED FARMS SPENDING OVER RS.38 CRORES- RANIKE

CHANDIGARH, JULY 7: The Punjab government today okayed comprehensive proposal for complete renovation and upgradation of 14 Fish Seed Farms throughout the state at the cost of Rs.38 crores and 7 Fish Farms would be ready within this financial year.

Disclosing this here today Punjab Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairy Development Minister S. Gulzar Singh Ranike said that Punjab government has already finalized a comprehensive plan to encourage farmers to go in for fisheries as a larger plan of the government to encourage agriculture diversification. He said that the Punjab government has drawn up a separate plan to promote fisheries in water logged areas of Malwa and was encouraging farmers to adopt fisheries. He said that the department was also focusing on effective marketing of fishery products to give remunerative price of their produce to the farmers and state government had already pleaded Union government to set up cold chain for fisheries products for their national and international marketing.

Reviewing the working of fisheries department, the Minister said that National Federation of Fishers Cooperatives Ltd. (FIHSCOPFED) has already insured 1639 fishermen as a token appreciation.

The Minister further said that 190 applications has been received to adopt the fisheries as profession from the state. He further said a proposal has been finalized for the establishment of ultra modern training centre at district Amritsar and the same has been sent to Agriculture Department for funds under RKVY scheme.

In the meeting Sh. G. Vijralingam, Secretary, Animal Husbandry; Dr. H.S. Sandha, Director, Animal Husbandry; Sh. Inderjit Singh, Director, Dairy Development Board and Sh. V.K. Sood, Director, Fisheries were also present.

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 PUNJAB CONSTITUTES STATE SUPERVISORY BOARD FOR EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF PNDT ACT, 1994

 Chandigarh, July 7: The Punjab Government today reconstituted the State Supervisory Board for effective monitoring and implementation of Pre-conception and Pre-natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994 (PNDT) under the Chairmanship of Health & Family Welfare Minister.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson said that Punjab government was fully determined to implement PNDT Act that provided for the prohibition of sex selection, before or after conception, and also for regulation of pre-natal diagnostic techniques for the purposes of detecting genetic abnormalities or metabolic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities or certain congenital malformations or sex-linked disorders. He said that government was duty bound to ensure prevention of their misuse for sex determination leading to female foeticide and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto and hence constituted this supervisory board.

The spokesperson said that Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare would be Vice- Chairperson of this Board. He said that Principal Secretary, Women & Child Development or his representative, Principal Secretary, Social Welfare or his representative, Secretary, Law Department or his representative besides Director, Health & Family Welfare, Director, Family Welfare have been nominated as ex-officio Members of the Board.

He further said that Ms. Navjot Kaur Sidhu, CPS and MLA, Amritsar, Ms.Sukhjit Kaur Shahi, MLA Dasuha and Ms. M.K. Josh, MLA have been included as women members in the board.

The spokesperson said that Dr. V.K. Goyal, (Retd.) A.D. (PNDT) Social Scientist, Dr. D.S. Gill, (Retd), Social Scientist, Sh. Ram Lal Gupta, Advocate, Legal Expert, Ms. Gurcharn Kaur, Ex-M.P. Women Activist, Ms. Satwant Johal Member Women Activist, Dr. Adarsh Sood, (Retd.) Civil Surgeon, Gynecologist, Dr. Rana Harinder, (Retd.) Member Gynecologist, Dr. Tarandeep Singh Gambhir, Pediatrician, Dr. Jairoop Singh V.C, Medical Geneticist Central University, Bathinda, Dr. Raman Najawhan, Radiologist have been nominated as members of the Board and Deputy Director, (PNDT) and State Mass Media & Education Officer Co-Opted as Ex-Officio members.

He said that the term of office of a member, other than an ex-officio member, would be for three years and the board would meet at least once in four months. He further said that Deputy Director PNDT would function as the member Secretary of the Board.

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CM SEEKS SUBSTANTIAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM GoI FOR UPCOMING STATE-OF-THE-ART WAR HEROES MEMORIAL

WRITES TO UNION MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND CULTURE AFFAIRS

Chandigarh, July 6, 2014

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Affairs Mr. Shripad Yesso Naik, to extend substantial financial assistance from his Ministry towards the upcoming state-of-the-art War Heroes' Memorial cum Museum at Amritsar. 

In a letter to Mr. Naik, the Chief Minister apprised him that the State of Punjab has borne the brunt of three full-fledged wars in which many of its Heroes have laid down their lives to safeguard the nation. He said that in order to commemorate the supreme sacrifices made by these great sons of the soil, the state Government has decided to set up a state-of-the-art War Heroes' Memorial cum Museum at Amritsar on 7 acres of land on the Amritsar-Attari Road. Mr. Badal said that this step was in consonance with our glorious tradition of honouring the brave hearts of the nation.

The Chief Minister informed Mr. Naik that the foundation stone of this Rs. 100 Crore prestigious project was laid on February 12, this year in presence of highly decorated men and officers from Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Navy adding that the work on the project commenced on site during May, 2014. He further said that this project was first of its kind which aims at giving due recognition to the martyrs of the country, who laid down their life while serving the Armed forces.

The Chief Minister further said that although, the State Government has made adequate arrangement of funds for the completion of this project through the imposition of Cultural Cess but would not be in a position to bear the entire burden of the cost of setting up this unique Memorial, which was likely to be completed by October, 2015. Mr. Badal requested the Union Minister that as per the commitment of Government of India to fund projects of iconic nature, which create awareness and national pride amongst the youth of today, the Centre must provide liberal financial assistance to the state government for this ambitious project.

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CM SEEKS REALLOCATION OF 43 ITIs FOR THE STATE

·        WRITES TO UNION LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT MINISTER

·        MOVE AIMED AT IMPARTING QUALITY SKILL TRAINING TO THE YOUTH IN EVERY BLOCK OF THE STATE

Chandigarh, July 6-

In a move aimed at imparting quality skill training to the youth in every block of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal has impressed upon the Union Labour and Employment Minister Mr. Narendra Singh Tomar to reallocate 43 ITIs to State.

In a letter to Mr. Tomar, the Chief Minister apprised himthat Government of India (GoI) had earlier allocated 43 ITIs in un-serviced blocks in Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode in Kaushal Vikas Yojana (KVY) under National Skill Development Mission (NSDM). He further said that the State Government had accordingly identified sites for setting up of these institutes and was ready to comply with other requirements of the scheme. However, Mr. Badal said that it was learnt in the review meeting held by GoI on December 5, 2013 that only 22 ITIs were being allocated to the State of Punjab.

Urging Mr. Tomar to reconsider this decision, the Chief Minister asked him to allocate 43 ITIs to State instead of 22 adding that this will make Punjab a state with at least One Government or Private ITI in the all blocks. He further requested the Union Minister to direct the concern authority to finalize the details of the scheme at the earliest so that the work could be started on the ground. “This will help in providing quality skill training to the youth of Punjab thereby opening new vistas of gainful employment for them” added Mr. Badal.

CHIEF MINISTER’S OFFICE PUNJAB

BADAL REQUESTS UNION HEALTH MINISTER TO DEPUTE SITE SELECTION TEAM FOR AIMS IN PUNJAB

APPRISES HEALTH MINISTRY ABOUT FOUR ALTERNATIVE SITES IN KAPURTHALA DISTRICT

CHANDIGARH JULY 06:

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged Union Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan to immediately depute a site selection team to finalize the site of the AIIMS in the state. 

          In a letter to Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the Chief Minister informed him that the State government had identified four sites in the district Kapurthala, adding he said that the land and the requisite infrastructure would be made available as per Ministry requirement.  Mr. Badal further said that he was extremely grateful to Dr. Harsh Vardhan for supporting state’s case of having AIIMS during a recent meeting with him in mid of June. 

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TREAT ANIMAL HUSBANDRY AT PAR WITH AGRICULTURE FOR IT EXEMPTION: CM WRITES TO JAITELY

THIS MOVE WOULD CERTAINLY PROPEL AGRICULTURE DIVERSIFICATION PROGRAM

CHANDIGARH JULY 06:

            Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Finance Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley to treat animal husbandry at par with agriculture for income tax exemption so as to motivate majority of farmers for taking up allied farming on one hand and promote diversification of agriculture on the other. 

            In a letter to the Union Finance Minister, Mr. Badal apprised Mr. Jaitley that agriculture was gradually becoming un-remunerative and thus agriculture diversification was a need of the hour.  Therefore, he cited animal husbandry could emerge as a strong viable alternative.  However, this could only happen if this sector was incentivized on the same lines as agriculture. 

Pertinently, since agriculture was a major source of livelihood to majority of Indian population and henceforth the GoI had been providing various incentives and subsidy to this sector, added Mr. Badal. 

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PUNJAB TO FOCUS ON ECO, ADVENTURE, WILDLIFE AND PILGRIMAGE TOURISM: THANDAL

·        LUXURIOUS TENTED ACCOMMODATION AND CAMPING SITES BE SET UP AT UNTAPPED ECO FRIENDLY & OTHER PICTURESQUE PLACES

 CHANDIGARH, JULY 6:

The Punjab Government has formulated a comprehensive policy to bring the State into the international tourist map by promoting the eco, adventure, wild life and pilgrimage tourism.

Stating this here today, Tourism Minster, Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal said that Punjab has to tap increasing demand for eco, adventure, wild life and pilgrimage tourism and he has Okayed a comprehensive project for this. He said that Punjab has rich cultural, historical, religious and ecological legacy and foreign tourist were attracted towards multi-hued picturesque locales of the state. “In Punjab there are many such places, which have yet not been tapped and promoted as potential tourist spots”, he added.

Mr. Thandal said that these tourist products involved visiting and staying in remote areas, forests and riversides.  Advocating tented accommodation at such sites, Mr. Thandal said that instead of investing in permanent capital assets, the state government should give the real jungle experience to the tourist in well designed tents. He said that without fiddling with the fragile ecology of the forests and wetlands, the Tourism Department should focus on eco-friendly solution like tents and camping sites.

He said that keeping in view restrictions on erecting permanent structures in ecologically fragile regions and to promote our young tourist to become part of nature, we should promote camping sites with trained tourist guides. He said that to meet the increasing demand of tourists, camping facilities and tented accommodation would need to be developed and there was a need to promote and facilitate setting up of tented accommodation/camp sites, while ensuring adherence to quality, standards and safety norms. Therefore, the Punjab Government has framed the comprehensive policy ‘Tented Accommodation/Camping Scheme” to attract the tourists from across the globe to visit Punjab and enjoy the virgin beauty of the nature besides relishing the Religious and Cultural heritage.

The Minister further said that to set up these kinds of tented accommodation and camping sites, distinguished promoters in the tourism industry would be invited. He said that the tented accommodation/camping would be categorized as per the facilities provided by the promoters at these locations. He said that Punjab Government would extend all the basic amenities like electricity and water at these camping sites at a subsidized rate.

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COMMITTEE TO KEEP CLOSE WATCH AT STOCK AND PRICES OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES

·        DEBUT MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE FORMED TO CHECK PRICES OF ESSENTIALS COMMODITIES

CHANDIGARH, JULY 5:

          The high power committee constituted by the Punjab Government to monitor the prices and stock of the essential commodities today met under the chairmanship of Mr. Jaspal Singh, Chairman and Secretary, Planning. The committee has asked the Economic and Statistics Organization, Punjab (ESI), Food and Civil Supply department, Punjab Mandi Board to furnish the composite report of stock and prices of essential commodities constantly. It was disclosed by an Official Spokesman of the Punjab Government in press statement released here today. Members of Committee Mr. Satwant Singh Johal, Director, Food and Civil Supply and Mr. M.L.Sharma, Economic Advisor were also present in the meeting.

          The Spokesman said that the Committee has also decided to raid crucial locations to check the hoarding of the essential commodities and also issued directions to fix the upper limit of the stock. He said that ESO has been instructed to file weekly report on every Wednesday regarding the prices of 22 essential commodities at district headquarter. Similarly the Food and Civil Supply Department has been instructed to furnish the retail prices of the essential commodities in corporation cities included Khanna, Mandi Gobindgarh and Batala on daily bases. Punjab Mandi Board has been asked to submit the wholesale price of products other than essential commodities at the district head quarter.

          He said that Food and Civil Supply Department has been asked to report the position of the stock at district level. Deputy Commissioners have been entered upon the responsibility of keeping close tab at the stock of kerosene oil as well as its proper distributions. He said that upper limit of the stock of onion and potato which can be stored by retailer or whole sailor would be fixed in the next meeting.

          The spokesman further said that Director, Agriculture has been invited as special nominee in the next meeting which has been fixed on July 7, 2014. He would report on the production of the essential food items in the state. Similarly Cane Commissioner and MD Sugarfed would report on the stock as well as production of the sugar. Director, Horticulture would report on the production of vegetables items. The Milkfed has been asked to report on production of milk in the net meeting.

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CS RECEIVES 19 PUNJABIS FROM WAR TORN IRAQ

·        TWO SENIOR OFFICIALS OF PUNJAB BHAWAN DEPUTED ROUND THE CLOCK FOR HASSLE FREE IMMIGRATION CLEARANCE

·        STATE GOVERNMENT MAKES ELABORATE ARRANGEMENTS FOR FREE FOOD, ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSPORT OF PUNJABIS COMING FROM IRAQ

New Delhi, July 5-

          On the directions of the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, the state Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal was specially deputed to receive the Punjabis returning from strife torn Iraq in special flight and ensure their hassle free immigration clearance here at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that out of 19 Punjabis who arrived at IGI Airport, 12 reached in a special flight of Sharjah Airline and seven came along with 46 nurses in an Indian Airline Chartered plane. The Chief Secretary accompanied by the Resident Commissioner Punjab Bhawan, New Delhi Mr. K Siva Prasad had been personally overseeing the procedure of immigration clearance at IGI Airport’s immigration section to ensure that none of any Punjabi, who returned from Iraq face any sort of harassment at the hands of authorities, because majority of Indians returning from Iraq were not having valid documents/ immigration papers in possession. The spokesperson further said that the Chief Secretary was in constant touch with the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Indian embassy in Iraq to ensure safe evacuation of Punjabis stuck up there.

The spokesperson further said that two senior officers from Punjab Bhawan New Delhi have been deputed at IGI Airport Immigration section, 24X7 to ensure hassle free Immigration clearance of all the Punjabis returning from Iraq. Reiterating the Chief Minister’s firm commitment to bring all the Punjabis trapped in war torn Iraq the spokesperson said that the state administration was making all out efforts for this and hopefully more Punjabis were expected to land tomorrow at IGI Airport. The spokesperson said that elaborate arrangements for their comfortable stay, food besides medical aid, if needed, had been made in the Punjab Bhawan to make them comfortable and relaxed. Apart from these free transport arrangement for their return to native places were also ensured by the officials of Punjab Bhawan. It may be recalled that the Chief Minister had already announced a financial assistance of Rs 20000 per month for the families of 40 Punjabis stuck up in Mosul region in Iraq.  

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HARSIMRAT BADAL SAYS CENTRE WILL SYMPATHETICALLY CONSIDER DEMANDS OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY INCLUDING ISSUE OF INTEREST SUBVENTION, I T EXEMPTION AND TECHNOLOGY UPGRADATION SUBSIDY

LUDHIANA, JULY 5 –

          Union minister for Food Processing Industry Harsimrat Kaur Badal today said the centre would sympathetically consider the issues raised by representatives of various industries including interest subvention, IT exemption for a definite period and subsidising technical upgradation to give a fillip to the food processing industry in Punjab.

          Interacting with a number of industrialists at the Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana along with Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Union minister asked the industrialists about the problems being faced by them as well as what incentives they required from the central government to give a boost to food processing in Punjab.

          Following the interaction, Mrs Badal said she would consider the demand of industrialists for an interest subvention of five to six per cent which could be paid directly to banks in order to make food processing industries more competitive. She said similarly IT exemption for a period of five years would also be considered.

There was also a demand from fruit and vegetable growers for the transfer of latest as well as affordable post harvest technology. Mrs Badal said subsidising of post harvest technology as well as ensuring subsidised machinery and identification of best food production technologies would be considered.

          Mrs Badal also assured the industrialists that her ministry would look into their demand for reduction of excise duty on all food production items as well as equipment. She gave this assurance after industrialists said they found if difficult to be competitive with their counterparts as Punjab is situated far away from ports.

          Meanwhile Sukhjit Starch managing director I K Sardana said there was an urgent need for mini food parks in Punjab as land was expensive and also not available easily. He also urged that the benefits available to mega food parks should also be given to mini food parks. Another industrialist Mr Ramesh Maggu of Kitty Bread also urged that priority sector lending should be available for food processing industries. Mrs Badal assured that both these demands would be considered sympathetically.

          Mr Anoop Bector of Cremica Foods said the food processing industry in Punjab was burdened by a number of taxes. He said biscuit makers had to pay excise duty on any biscuits costing more than Rs 100 per kg. Similarly rusk manufacturers highlighted the high VAT rate being charged from them which Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal assured to review. The Deputy CM also assured to consider the demand for changing the definition of small scale industry from the present Rs 5 crore to Rs ten crore.

          Earlier Financial Commissioner, Development Suresh Kumar highlighted that grants under the food processing ministry were being given as per area and population under the Gadgil formula. He said this needed to be reviewed as food processing industries needed to be established in States where food grains, vegetables and fruits were available in abundance for processing. He also advocated creation of food clusters as per the need of a particular area. EOM

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CM INITIATES TWO-DAYS WHIRLWIND TOUR OF THE DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTERS OF THE STATE VISITS DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTERS IN BATALA, GURDASPUR, HOSHIARPUR, JALANDHAR, KAPURTHALA EXPRESSES SATISFACTION OVER FUNCTIONING OF THESE CENTERS REITERATES COMMITMENT TO MAKE PUNJAB DRUG FREE STATE DRUG ADDICTS FROM BPL FAMILIES EXEMPTED FROM USER CHARGES IN DRUG ADDICTION CENTERS

22 REHABILITATION CENTERS TO COME UP ACROSS THE STATE FALSE CASES AGAINST INNOCENT PERSONS UNDER NDPS ACT NOT TO BE TOLERATED POLICE PROBING THE ROLE OF INFLUENTIAL PERSONS IN DRUG PEDDLING ASSAILS CONGRESS FOR DIVIDING SIKHS THROUGH SEPARATE GURUDWARA COMMITTEE IN HARYANA TERMS IT AS A THIRD ASSAULT BY CONGRESS ON SIKHS AFTER OPERATION BLUE STAR AND ANTI-SIKH RIOTS SLAMS CAPTAIN AND BAJWA FOR SUPPORTING SEPARATE COMMITTEE IN HARYANA Jalandhar, July 5-

                                             In pursuance of his firm resolve to make Punjab a drug free state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today initiated his two-days whirlwind tour of all the drug de-addiction centers across the state along with experts and the key officers of the Health department.

The Chief Minister who visited the drug de-addiction centers at Batala, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, and Kapurthala, inspected the infra structure and the medical facilities being offered by these centers to the drug addicts undergoing detoxification in these centers. During interaction with the Chief Minister all the drug addicts and their families expressed deep satisfaction over the crusade started by the state government against the drug menace. Most of the patients apprised the Chief Minister that they have voluntarily came to these centers after making up their mind to get rid of the curse of drug addiction.

Interacting with the media persons during his visit at drug de-addiction center at the ESI Hospital here today, the Chief Minister, while expressing contentment over the functioning of these centers, said that with the concerted efforts of the state government, Punjab would soon become a “drug free state”. He reiterated that the state government has followed a twin strategy for wiping out this menace from Punjab as on one hand massive drive has been initiated to cut the supply line of the drugs and on the other hand a campaign has been embarked for detoxifying the drug addicts in such drug de-addiction centers. Mr. Badal said that the state government was giving free medicines to the drug addicted youth in the centers adding that addicts from BPL/ Blue card holder families were also exempted from the other user charges in these centers.

  Likewise, the Chief Minister said that in order to make sure that the de-addicted youth could live a life with dignity; the state government would open 22 Rehabilitation centers across the state within three months. He said that soon prefabricated buildings for these centers would be constructed by NBCC, an agency of the Government of India (GoI). Mr. Badal said that while a State Board under his Chairmanship would monitor the working of such rehabilitation center across the state, at the district level Committees headed by the concerned Deputy Commissioners would manage the affairs of their respective centers.

Replying to another query about the media reports pertaining to allegations of misuse of NDPS act, the Chief Minister categorically said that that no such case has came into his knowledge till now.

However, he said the framing up of innocent persons in false cases would not be tolerated at any cost. Mr. Badal further said that the state Police would review such cases, after getting complaints regarding it.

Expressing zero tolerance towards the drug peddlers in the state, the Chief Minister reiterated that any person, however affluent he might be, would not be spared if his indulgence was found in this heinous crime against the mankind. He also said that the state Police was already probing into the role of influential persons in this crime and the law would take its own course in the matter. “I assure you that strict action will be taken against the persons involved in this crime once the enquiry was over” added Mr. Badal.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLA Mr. Pargat Singh, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Special Secretary Health Mr. Vikas Garg, Commissioner Mr. R. Venkatratnam, Deputy Commissioner Mr. KK Yadav, Inspector General (Narcotics Cell) Mr. Ishwar Singh, Commissioner Police Kunwar Vijay Pratap, SSP (Rural) Mr. Narendra Bhargav and renowned Health expert Mr. Ajit Awasthi.

Earlier talking to the media persons in Gurdaspur, Batala, Hoshiarpur and Kapurthala, the Chief Minister said that the Haryana government's nefarious designs to divide the Sikhs by constituting separate committee for management of Gurudwaras in state would never materialize. He said that by this sinister move the Congress has given a third major assault to the Sikhs, the first two being the Operation Blue Star and the anti-Sikh riots of 1984. Slamming Lok Sabha MP Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab Congress Chief Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa for supporting Haryana Government’s move, Mr. Badal said that they were not aware about the history of supreme sacrifices made by countless Sikhs for formation of Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (SGPC).

 The Chief Minister said that this election stunt of Congress would not yield dividends to it as the Sikhs of Haryana have time and again rejected the demand for having separate body for managing the Gurudwara affairs in the state. Mr. Badal also cautioned the Congress to refrain from meddling in the religious affairs of the Sikhs just for the sake of its vested political motives. He said that it was unfortunate that the Haryana Government was reviving this contentious issue despite of the fact that the former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had refrained it from taking this step during the UPA government.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also said that in order to monitor the prices of essential commodities in the state a five-member committee has been constituted, which would oversee the prices of various commodities on the daily basis in the state besides reviewing the action taken by the different authorities under the Essential Commodities Act.

PUNJAB DEMANDS MORE POWERS UNDER ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES ACT TO CHECK HOARDING AND INFLATION

·       KAIRON PUT UP A VOLLEY OF DEMANDS DURING THE FOOD MINISTERS MEET AT NEW DELHI 

CHANDIGARH/NEW DELHI, JULY 4:

“The states must be empowered under ‘Essential Commodities Act’ to check the ever-rising inflation, control the prices of essential food items and hoarding.” This case was strongly put up by Mr. Adaish Partap Singh Kairon, Food and Civil Supplies Minister, Punjab, while taking part in the deliberations at the Food Ministers’ Meet on ‘Increase in Food Prices’ at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi today.

In his address, Mr. Kairon made a vociferate appeal to the Government of India to empower state governments for the effective implementation of Essential Commodities Act. He said that by empowering the state in this direction the hoarding/blackmailing could be checked effectively.

Mr. Kairon also appealed to the Government of India to increase the quota of levy sugar to the state from the present 1500 MT to 7500 MT per month as the families to whom the subsidize sugar was being distributed has increased manifold. He said that earlier the subsidized sugar was provided only to the BPL families, but now more families have been covered under National Food Security Act.

Mr. Kairon assured the union government that despite the probability of deficit monsoon rainfall, the state would match up the supply of paddy/wheat grains to the national kitty to the previous year. He said that the state government would have to exert more efforts and resources in the form of diesel and electricity consumption to produce more yield in adverse climate condition. He said that in this backdrop, the union government must compensate the Punjab Government by sanctioning the financial help of Rs.2200 crore.

Speaking about the plight of storage capacity of food grains in the state, Mr. Kairon said that against the sanctioned construction of 50 lacs tonnes storage capacity, the Punjab has already constructed 45 lacs tonnes storage capacity, which was far short than what was desired. He said that this storage capacity could be extended up to the level 80 lacs tonnes, which is badly needed. He said that the in the dearth of sufficient storage capacity, the hard earned food grains got spoiled, so he demanded that more warehouse blocks should be constructed in the state. He also requested the Union Government to ensure that Food Corporation of India (FCI) must act swiftly during the procurement seasons of food grains, so that the hard earned food grains could not get spoiled in open in the procurement centres.

The Food Minister demanded that an appellant apex laboratory must be designated by Government of India so that the miller could get second opinion before this apex laboratory in case their food grains were rejected by the FCI.

Mr. Kairon said that at present, the Punjab state has milling capacity of 25 lacs MT processed rice per month to the FCI through its rice mills. He said that despite this fact the FCI receive only 10 lacs MT rice per month. He urged the union government to increase the receiving capacity of FCI to 25 lacs MT per month.

Besides Mr. Kairon, Mr. D.S. Grewal, Secretary, Food and Civil Supplies, Punjab was also present in this meet.

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PUNJAB POLICE TO FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY ENABLED FUNCTIONING AND RESPONSE

v 2 DAY ENVISIONING WORKSHOP FOR CONCEPTUALIZING THE MOST SUITABLE AND PRACTICAL SAFE CITY SOLUTION

Chandigarh, July 4: The Punjab police is focusing on the need of technology enabled functioning and response to provide a safe environment in the state.

Presiding over a 2-day Envisioning Workshop for conceptualizing the most suitable and practical Safe City Solution for the cities of Ludhiana and Amritsar here at Punjab Police Headquarters, the Punjab DGP Mr. Sumedh Singh said that  the Deputy Chief minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is also the Home Minister has categorically directed for making  our most populous and prestigious cities Ludhiana and Amritsar most safe by devising  a State-of-the-art Safe City Solution in on the pattern of major metropolitan cities all over the world. He said that the State police have identified terrorism and street crimes, the two most important areas for focus and to ensure zero tolerance for these. He said that the purpose of conducting this workshop with the assistance of a team of experts from Microsoft was the experience of the company of successfully implementing the Safe City Solutions in New York Police Department (NYPD), which has now emerged as a benchmark and gold standard for such Safe City Solutions across the world.

Mr. Dinkar Gupta, ADGP/Security said that Envisioning Workshop for conceptualizing the most suitable and practical Safe City Solution for the cities of Ludhiana and Amritsar was attended by a large number of police officers working at the Headquarters and in the field. He said that during the deliberations in the workshop, the suggestions and recommendations emerged on the best options available for a Safe City Solution for Ludhiana and Amritsar and most importantly these were most suited to the Indian context and requirements.

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PUNJAB CONSTITUTES COMMITTEE TO MONITOR THE PRICE OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES

·       MANDATED TO MONITOR THE STOCK AND SUPPLY OF THE ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES IN THE STATE ON DAILY BASIS

CHANDIGARH, JULY 4:

The Punjab Government has constituted a high level committee to keep a close watch at the prices of essential commodities in the state. This committee has been mandated to monitor the proper stock and supply of the essential commodities like vegetables, pulses, edible oils and milk.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Punjab Government said that this high powered committee has been constituted following the instructions of the Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal. He said that Secretary, Planning has been designated the Chairperson of this committee, whereas Director, Food and Civil Supplies, Director, Horticulture and General Manager (Marketing), Punjab Mandi Board have been inducted as Members in the Committee. The Economic Advisor, Punjab would be the Member Secretary of the Committee.

The spokesperson further said that this committee has given the power to oversee the prices of essential commodities on daily basis. This committee would also supervise the action taken by various authorities under ‘Essential Commodity Act’. Besides, monitoring the prices of the essential commodities like vegetables, pulses, edible oils, potato, onion and milk, this committee would also monitor the adequate supply of these commodities under ‘Public Distribution System’.

MALUKA CALLS MEETING OF ZILA PARISHAD CHAIRMEN

Chandigarh 4 July:-

                Rural Development & Panchayat Minister Punjab S. Sikandar Singh Maluka today called the meeting of all Zila Parishad Chairmen on July 8 to discuss the issued related to the development of villages.

            A spokesman of the department today said that meeting would take place in Vikas Bhawan, SAS Nagar at 11:00am. He said that the department has decided to take the feedback from elected representative from bottom level to further engage them in the development process of villages.

            He further said that the views expressed by the Chairmen would be given full weightage in policy making for the development of villages according to the needs of concerned areas.

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CM GIVES NOD FOR FIVE-MEMBER PANEL TO MONITOR PRICES OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES

·       MOVE AIMED AT ENSURING PRICE STABILIZATION

Chandigarh, July 4

       On the directions of the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the state government today consituted a five-member committee under the chairmanship of Secretary Planning to monitor the prices of essential commodities in the state.

       Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that the other members of the committee would be Director Food & Civil Supplies, Director Horticluture and General Manager Marketing, Punjab Mandi Board while the Economic Advisor would be its member secretary.

       The decision to constitute of this committee was taken in a meeting held on July 02, 2014 under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal. The Chief Minister also gave his nod to immediately issue a notification for the said committee, which play a crucial role in ensuring price stabilization, this afternoon.     The committee was mandated to oversee the prices of various commodities on the daily basis in the state besides reviewing the action taken by the different authorities under the Essential Commodities Act. The Committee would also review the stock and supply position of essential commodities viz. vegetables, pulses, edible oil, milk etc. in the state. Apart from this, the committee would also ensure the supply of essential commodities under the public distribution system.

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GoI CONCURS TO DEMAND OF CM, ENHANCES COAL LINKAGE FOR TALWANDI SABO AND RAJPURA TPP

MINISTRY OF COAL ALSO AGREES TO GRANT 2 LAC TONES OF COAL PER MONTH FOR GOINDWAL SAHIB TPP

CONVERTS ONE MILLION TONS OF COAL FROM ROAD MODE TO RAIL MODE DURING REMAINING PADDY SEASON

CM SEEKS EXTENSION OF DEADLINE FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF RADRP (A) PROJECT

ADVOCATES FOR FRAMING UP A POLICY TO MINIMIZE THE COAL TRANSPORTATION COSTS FOR STATES LIKE PUNJAB

Chandigarh, July 4-

Acceding to the demand of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the Government of India (GoI) has enhanced coal linkage for Talwandi Sabo Thermal Power Plant (TPP) and Rajpura TPP matching with their installed capacities of 1980 MW and 1400 MW respectively, which was pending with the Union Ministry of Coal since April, 2011. 

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Union Minister for Power and Coal Mr. Piyush Goyal has gave his nod for enhancing this capacity after the Chief Minister had raised this matter with the top brass of Ministry of Coal a few days back. In another significant decision the Union Minister has further agreed to grant two lac tones of coal per month for Goindwal Sahib TPP, which would enable State of Punjab to fully utilize the 540 MW capacity of the plant which was lying idle for want of coal. Likewise, on the pursuance of the Chief Minister, Mr. Goyal has also agreed for ramping up of coal supplies to PSPCL's own Thermal Plants by converting One Million Tons of coal from road mode to rail mode during remaining paddy season from July to September,2014  @ 3 rakes per day.   

Meanwhile in a letter to Mr. Goyal, the Chief Minister has also sought extension of deadline for implementation of Restructured Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Program -A  (RADRP-A) project on account of the poor performance of the ITIA in Punjab, upto March 31, 2015.

Likewise, he also urged the Union Minister that keeping in view the overall national interest, a policy should be framed that minimizes the coal transportation costs for states like Punjab that were land locked and far away from the pithead as well. He also emphasised the need for 100% domestic coal linkage for power plants located in Punjab/land locked states and use of imported coal for coastal states.

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STATE GOVERNMENT MAKING ALL OUT EFFORTS FOR SAFE AND PROMPT RETURN OF PUNJABIS STRANDED IN IRAQ- CM

·       16 TORMENTED FAMILIES FROM MANDI GOBIND GARH MEETS BADAL

·       CM CALLS UP GOI’s SPECIAL ENVOY AND JOINT SECRETARY OF MEA FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF PUNJABIS 

Chandigarh, July 4-

          Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today assured the distressed families of the Punjabis trapped in strife torn Iraq that the state government was making all out efforts to ensure the safe and prompt return of their family members back to the motherland.

          Interacting with 16 such families from Mandi Gobind Garh, who called on the Chief Minister at his residence today afternoon, Mr. Badal said that the state government was in constant touch with the Union External Affairs Ministry over this sensitive issue.

          The delegation apprised the Chief Minister that their family members were working at Four M Steel Rolling Mill located between Italia and Qasim cities, which was 300 kilometres away from Baghdad. They said that due to the prevalent situation in Iraq their family members were eager to return back to their homes but the factory owner was not allowing them to come back due to his vested interests. The delegation expressed concern over the fact that they have not been able to communicate with their family members from last four days.

          They apprised the Chief Minister that total 31 Indians were stuck up in the Mill out of which 16 were Punjabis. They said that the owner of Mill Faazal Abaad had also himself come to Mandi Gobind Garh and took their family members to Iraq for employing them. But now he was not allowing their family members to return back, they added.

          On the occasion, the Chief Minister immediately called up former Indian Ambassador to Iraq Mr. Suresh Reddy, who has been specially deputed by the Government of India (GoI) to oversee the rescue operations of Indians trapped in the strife torn country, to ensure safe and prompt return of the Punjabis to the state. He also asked Mr. Reddy to sort out the issues of those Punjabis who were willing to comeback but their employers were reluctant to relieve them due to certain reasons.   

          The Chief Minister also spoke over phone to the Joint Secretary (Gulf and Haj) from Ministry of External Affairs Mr. Mridul Kumar and asked him to ensure safe and early evacuation of Indians especially the Punjabis stuck over in Iraqi civil war. Mr. Badal asked the Joint Secretary to make concerted efforts to ensure the release of these 16 Punjabis, who were prevented by the factory owner to return back to their homes.

          Meanwhile, the Chief Minister reiterated that any Punjabi who was willing to return Punjab but reluctant to do so for the financial burden incurred by him/his family on account of hefty loans/advance money taken for their immigration to Iraq, should come back to their motherland as the state government would bear such entire expenditure incurred by them or their family. He said that it was the bounden duty of the state government to help the distressed Punjabis and their families in this hour of crisis by relieving them of such mental agony.   

          Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Ajoy Sharma. The delegation was led by former Chief of Municipal Council Mandi Gobindgarh Mr. SS Bhambri. 

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SELF HELP GROUPS CREATE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN PUNJAB VILLAGES :Maluka

CHANDIGARH, JULY 04

Under National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) the Punjab Government has empowered and helped poor households across the state to battle poverty by providing access to self-employment opportunities based on their specialized skill set. The State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) Punjab started in 2001 and has since then contributed to the betterment to countless members of the vulnerable section of society.

Elaborating on the composition of beneficiaries, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Punjab Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka said that it includes 50% of SC/ST, 50% of women, 15% minorities and 3% are people with disabilities. From the national allocation of 6.92 crore in 2013-2014 for SRLM, the financing of the program was shared between centre and the state in the ratio of 75:25. During the first phase 12 blocks in 5 Districts across the state had been selected for implementation. Here, Self Help Groups (SHGs) were established to initiate creation of improved and sustainable livelihoods for the rural poor. The districts covered included Tarn Tara with 55 SHGs, Gurdaspur with 80, Patiala with 92, Sangrur with 63 and Ferozepur with 86.

He further said that, to accelerate the achievement of a total target of 1000 SHGs created in the State, new staff has been recruited and a Revolving Fund provided to SHGs on the basis of their monthly savings. 232 SHGs 2014-2015 have been provided with Rs. 15000 per group. If these continue functioning successfully for six months, they get upgraded to Community Investment Fund of Rs. 50000 per group; this has been given to 48 SHGs as of now. In addition the National resource Organization (NRO) will select a Professional Resource Person Team in identified blocks to work for a period of 1 year to create a Model Block, on the lines of which more SHGs will be replicated.

Punjab has worked on its progress regarding Resource Block Strategy by signing a MoU with Rajiv Gandhi Mahilla Vikas Priyojna (RGMVP) of UP GOP which has selected 5 clusters from 2 Resource Blocks i.e. Sanour of Patiala District, Sunam of Sangrur District; and one cluster each from the other three districts i.e. Tarn Tara, Gurdaspur and Ferozepur. This work began on 1st of July 2014. The government has proposed a budget of approximately 8.95 crore for 2014-2015. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to providing improved access to jobs and better the standard of living in these peripheral areas.  Rural economic development is critical to the national growth agenda.

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CM INVITES KIRAN BEDI FOR DELIBERATIONS TO EVOLVE STRATEGY FOR ERADICATION OF DRUG ABUSE FROM STATE

APPRECIATES HER CONCERN AND DESIRE FOR SOLVING THIS PROBLEM  

CHANDIGARH JULY 04:

Taking cognizance of an open letter published in a section of press, written by the former IPS Officer and civil society activist Mrs. Kiran Bedi to Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal on the problem of drug abuse and trafficking in Punjab, the Chief Minister has extended invitation to her for early resolution of this malady, which had plagued the state. 

In a letter to Mrs. Bedi, the Chief Minister deeply appreciated her concern for Punjab and her will and desire towards finding solution to this grave problem.  Mr. Badal said that he was quite confident that the deliberations with her along with the officials of health department, police administration and other stakeholders would certainly pave a way for evolving a comprehensive strategy to effectively combat and eradicate the problem of drug addiction from the state.  The Chief Minister said that he was positive that her wide experience would come extremely handy in strengthening the current de-addiction drive launched by the state government.  

Reiterating his firm commitment to stamp out the menace of drug abuse, Mr. Badal said that  he had taken it as a personal challenge to make Punjab a drug free state in two years time. 

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FREE TRAVELLING FACILITY TO EX-MLAs AND SPOUSES IN PUNJAB ROADWAYS AND PRTC’s AC BUSES

Chandigarh, July 4           

       In a big reprieve to the Ex-MLAs and their spouses of the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal gave his approval to provide free travelling facility to them in Air Conditioned HVAC Buses of Punjab Roadways and PRTC.

       Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal cleared the file in this regard.

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CM URGES GADKARI TO ENSURE ADDITIONAL FUNDS FOR STATE UNDER RWSSS IN ENSUING UNION BUDGET

WRITES LETTER TO UNION MINISTER

LAUDS HIS CONCERN FOR RESOLVING THE PROBLEMS OF STATE AT THE EARLIEST

Chandigarh, July 4-

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today urged the Union Minister for Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Mr. Nitin Jairam Gadkari to ensure the provision of additional funds for state under Rural Water Supply and Sanitation scheme (RWSSS) in the ensuing Union Budget and provide it immediately after the budget was passed by the Parliament.   

In a letter to Mr. Gadkari, the Chief Minister said that necessary action in this regard was required to remove avoidable miseries of rural habitations in Punjab. He apprised the Union Minister that a large number of water samples of Rural habitations in the State have failed due to which it was the need of the hour to provide water purification systems to these areas on priority. Mr. Badal said that the state Department of Water Supply and Sanitation has already submitted a proposal of Rs.101.33 crore for installing RO systems in 730 habitations across the state.

Likewise, the Chief Minister said that in addition to it the Department also needs additional funds to install ROs in remaining 2094 habitations, where water was found to be contaminated with Uranium and other heavy metals. Referring to his recent meeting with the Union Minister in New Delhi, Mr. Badal lauded his gesture of advising the concerned officers of the Ministry of Water Supply and Sanitation to consider this request of the state government on priority. He also urged Mr. Gadkari to provide requisite funds amounting to nearly Rs.300 crore for these habitations also. "It was pleasure to meet with you, more so because of your positive attitude and inclination to resolve the pending issues of Punjab, especially that of quality of drinking water being supplied to rural habitations, at the earliest" he added