SAD ACCUSES RAHUL GANDHI OF BEING DOUBLE FACED FOR FAILING TO SPELL OUT DECISIVE ACTION AGAINST CONGRESS LEADERS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE 1984 GENOCIDE

Chandigarh, March 16 - The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) today said Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi was a double faced politician who even now wanted to protect his party men who had according to his own admission led the anti Sikh program in 1984.

In a statement here, senior SAD leaders Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Balwinder Singh Bhundur said it was clear from Rahul Gandhi's statement today on the 1984 genocide engineered by senior Congress leaders that he only had the forthcoming elections in mind and was not interested in ensuring justice to the victims of the genocide.

"The mass murderers roam free and have also been rewarded with high offices during the last three decades", the senior leaders said. They also asked Rahul to explain why he had still failed to spell out an action plan against the senior Congress leaders who had led the anti Sikh program. "Unless you do this Punjabis and the world at large will see today's statement as a mere platitude served with the Lok Sabha elections in mind".

The SAD leaders also urged Mr Rahul Gandhi to apologise to the Sikh community and also explain why the mass murderers responsible for the 1984 genocide had been rewarded with plum posts. "He must explain why the Congress has as a party always protected the perpetrators of the genocide and also created conditions which have delayed judicial action against them".

Both Mr Dhindsa and Mr Bhundur said it was clear from Rahul Gandhi's actions that he only believed in symbolism and had no feeling for the pain suffered by the victims of the genocide or the collective Sikh psyche. "The Sikh community as well as the country is destined to rubbish this gesture which is aimed at electoral politics rather than any sincere attempt to correct the wrongs committed by Congressmen", they added. EOM

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HOURS OF POLL

· VOTERS FROM PUNJAB TO GET 11 HOURS’ POLLING TIME

Chandigarh, March 16: The Election Commission of India has decided to enhance the hours of poll during General Elections 2014. Under the provision of Section 56 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the ECI is empowered to fix the hours of poll, which shall not be less than 8 hours.

According to a spokesman of office of Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab, the ECI has now fixed the polling hours in all Parliamentary constituencies of the state from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The spokesman further said that the ECI after taking into account various factors such as extreme hot weather condition and early sunrise and sunset in some regions has taken this decision to facilitate voters.

The spokesman further said that this decision would help voters to turn out in large numbers to exercise their franchise in the Lok Sabha Elections 2014. Meanwhile, the DEOs have been directed to give wide publicity regarding poll hours in their respective constituencies.

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ANOTHER JOLT TO CONGRESS, FORMER MINISTER ISHER SINGH MEHARBAN JOINS SHIROMANI AKALI DAL
•ALL THE OFFICE BEARERS OF PPP FROM MOHALI ALSO JOINS PARTY

Chandigarh, March 16

In yet another vote of no confidence against Punjab Congress President Partap Bajwa, former minister and Congress Jagraon constituency incharge Isher Singh Meharban today deserted his party and joined the Shiromani Akali Dal in the presence of its President Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal and general secretary Prof. Prem Singh Chandumajra.

Mr. Meherban, who formally joined the SAD at a press conference presided over by Mr Sukhbir Badal, said he was leaving the Congress because Mr. Partap Bajwa was ignoring the senior leadership. He said party workers had no recourse of even an appeal against the PCC President because the high command was insensitive and inaccessible to them.

On this occassion, almost all the office bearers of PPP from district Mohali including Gaganpreet Singh Bains, President PPP Mohali urban, Dharam singh Saini, President PPP Mohali rural, Malwinder Singh Malli, PPP Youth President Mohali and Dr. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, member central committee PPP also joined Shiromani Akali Dal.

Welcoming Mr. Meharban and PPP leaders into the party fold, Mr. Badal said the manner in which senior Congress leaders were leaving the sinking ship of the party was indicative of the fact that the party had thrown in the towel and was incapable of even contesting the Lok Sabha elections in Punjab. "The Congress is finding it difficult to find candidates even as it's senior leadership is contacting us with the intent of joining the SAD. The position is such that even sitting mps like Mr. Partap singh Bajwa and Mr. Manish Tiwari have felt the pulse of people of the voters and fearing their imminent loss are refusing to contest the polls". Mr Badal said the SAD- BJP alliance was all set to register record margin victories on all the 13 Lok sabha constituencies.

Mr. Meharban, who is a two time MLA from Koom Kalan, had unsuccessfully contested the last assembly election from Jagraon and lost with a narrow margin of 200 votes from SAD candidate Mr. Shiv Ram Kaler. He had also resigned from the post of state executive member of PPCC last January in a protest against party appointments done by PPCC President Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa . His exit is likely to result in a major blow to the Congress party on two parliamentary constituencies as Mr. Meharban has strong influence in both Ludhiana and Fatehgarh constituencies.

Committing to work with full strength to ensure the record victory of SAD-BJP Candidates from Ludhiana and Fatehgarh Sahib constituencies, Mr Meherban said that he decided to join the SAD as Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal were accessible to even grassroot level workers. He said he had always followed principle based politics and that he had always been impressed by the development agenda of the SAD.

Photo Captions

16SAD1&2

Shiromani Akali Dal President & Deputy Chief Minister Punjab S.Sukhbir Singh Badal Welcoming S.Ishar Singh Meharaban into party Folds at Shiromani Akali Dal head office in Chandigarh on 16 march,2014.

16PPPgroup

Shiromani Akali Dal President & Deputy Chief Minister Punjab S.Sukhbir Singh Badal Welcoming office bearers of PPP from district Mohali including Gaganpreet Singh Bains, President PPP Mohali urban, Dharam singh Saini, President PPP Mohali rural, Malwinder Singh Malli, PPP Youth President Mohali and Dr. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, member central committee PPP into party folds

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PUNJAB GOVERNOR GREETS PEOPLE ON HOLI AND HOLLA MOHALLA

CHANDIGARH, March 16: The Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, Mr. Shivraj V. Patil extended warm greetings to the people of Punjab and Chandigarh on the eve of Holi and Holla Mohalla.

In his message, Mr. Patil said the festival of Holi symbolsis the victory of good over evil. He said that this festival marks the advent of spring and also brings together all people, in its spirit of mutual love and harmony, forgetting all distinctions of caste, creed and religion.

Mr. Patil said that this day has also an outstanding significance in the annals of sikh history as, based on this festival, the Holla Mohalla is also celebrated at Sri Ananadpur Sahib, the birth place of Khalsa, with great pomp and show, with the participation of lakhs of people, from all walks of life.

The Governor appealed to the people to celebrate these festivals of Holi & Holla Mohalla in a true spirit of amity, mutual love, good will and brotherhood.

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2ND SPECIAL CAMPS FOR LEFT OUT ELECTORS ON MARCH 16

· 42855 LICENSED ARMS GOT DEPOSITED

Chandigarh, March 15: The Election Commission of India has directed to organize 2nd Special Camps on March 16 at all polling stations where no Form-6 was received in first campaign held on March 9.

Disclosing this here today a spokesman of office of Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab said that all the Deputy Commissioners-cum-District Election Officers have been directed in this regard and the purpose of organizing these camps was to provide another opportunity to all those left out electors so that they could also use their Right to Franchise during ensuing Lok Sabha elections-2014. He said that they have been asked that the forms received during the special camps should be disposed off and enrolled in the electoral rolls latest by March 27 and a report in this regard should be sent to the office of CEO on March 18.

Meanwhile, in the ongoing process 42,855 licensed arms have got deposited till date. The spokesman informed that out of total 3604 non-bailable warrants 2150 have been executed. Besides this 320 persons have been identified as probable source of trouble in ensuing Lok Sabha elections. He said that till date 1899 Police Nakas had been put on different places and timings.

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ECI ENHANCES HOURS OF POLL

· VOTERS FROM PUNJAB TO GET 11 HOURS’ POLLING TIME

Chandigarh, March 16: The Election Commission of India has decided to enhance the hours of poll during General Elections 2014. Under the provision of Section 56 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the ECI is empowered to fix the hours of poll, which shall not be less than 8 hours.

According to a spokesman of office of Chief Electoral Officer, Punjab, the ECI has now fixed the polling hours in all Parliamentary constituencies of the state from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The spokesman further said that the ECI after taking into account various factors such as extreme hot weather condition and early sunrise and sunset in some regions has taken this decision to facilitate voters.

The spokesman further said that this decision would help voters to turn out in large numbers to exercise their franchise in the Lok Sabha Elections 2014. Meanwhile, the DEOs have been directed to give wide publicity regarding poll hours in their respective constituencies.

 

POLLING STAFF TO GET OPPORTUNITY TO CAST THEIR VOTES

CEO SEEKS REPORTS ON TRANSPORTATION OF BICYCLES

POLITICAL ACTIVITIES ON HOLA-MOHALLA WOULD BE MONITORED

NO NOTIFICATION YET FROM PUNJAB VIDHAN SABHA REGARDING TALWANDI SABO ASSEMBLY CONSTITUENCY

Chandigarh, March 12:

          Punjab Chief Electoral Officer Mr. V.K. Singh today said that as per the directions of Election Commission of India, special emphasis would be on providing polling staff an opportunity to cast their votes through postal ballots or by issuing election duty certificates during Lok Sabha elections-2014.

          Interacting with media persons, Mr. Singh pointed out that ECI has categorically directed for adopting a mechanism to ensure that entire polling staff including both civil and security could use their right to franchise and for this purpose as per the requirement of any individual postal ballots or election duty certificates would be issued.

Mr. Singh said that a complaint regarding transportation of bicycles meant for girl students has been received from Sangrur district and said that the Punjab Chief Secretary has been asked to get the matter enquired. He said that though the distribution of such bicycles was only violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) but these should not been transported.

          Replying a query regarding political conferences by political parties on the occasion of Hola- Mohalla, the CEO said that the Deputy Commissioner, Rupnagar has been directed to advise political parties against holding these in the periphery of Gurudwara Sahib as it amounts to violation of MCC. He said that there would be a monitoring system to keep close eye on any violation.

          When asked about the possibility of Talwandi Sabo by-poll with Lok Sabha election, the CEO informed that they haven’t yet received any communication regarding this from Punjab Vidhan Sabha. He said that whenever, they got any communication regarding this, the matter would be sent to ECI.

          Replying another query, Mr. VK Singh said that no new cards could be issued regarding Atta-Dal scheme but the beneficiaries already getting the benefit of this scheme could avail it as it was for the poor persons. He said that the bag carrying wheat should not have any picture of political person.

          He said that the Deputy Commissioners have been directed to recommend the cases of parole of only those prisoners, who have a valid compassionate reason and no political inclination. He said that the Deputy Commissioners would send these cases to the Home department and thereafter, they would send these to ECI for necessary approval.

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DISTRICT LEVEL FARMERS' CAMP FOR  KHRIFF SEASON FROM MARCH 15

 CHANDIGARH, MARCH 12:

 The Punjab government has announced scheduled program for farmers' training camp for Khriff Season in each district of the state with a view to provide technical information about the sowing of crops. These camps would be organized from 15 March to 19th April,2014.

Divulging the details, a spokesman of the Agriculture Department said that these district level farmer training camps would be held under the supervision of headquarter level officers and first camps would be organized at Patiala (Rakhra) on March 15, 2014, while in district Nawan Shahr  and Jalandhar  on March 17,  Fridkot on  19,  Tarn Taran and Amritsar on 22, district Pathankot on 24, in districh Ferozpur and Fazilka 25, in district Sangrur and Fatehgarh Sahib on  26, in Ropar and Mohali on 27, in district Hoshiarpur and Gurdaspur on 28, in Barnala and Mansa the camps would be held on March 29.

He further said that  these camps would be organised in district Bathinda on April 3 whereas in Muktsar on April 4,Ludhiana and Kapurthala on April 5  and Moga  on April 19, 

The Spokesman said that all the district agriculture officers have been asked to ensure the participation of farmers so that they could get more benefit.

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SAD MANIFESTO COMMITTEE TO FINALIZE MANIFESTO ON 16TH

 Chandigarh, March 12 : The Shiromani Akali Dal manifesto committee for the lok sabha polls 2014 will finalize its manifesto on March 16.

             Disclosing this in a statement released from the party head office here today, the SAD Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that the committee would meet in Chandigarh on March 16 at 6.00 pm and finalize the manifesto for the coming lok sabha polls.

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PUNJAB NOTIFIES SOCIOLOGY & SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF PUNJABI UNIVERSITY AS SIAU

Chandigarh, March 11: The Punjab government has notified Sociology & Social Anthropology department of Punjabi University, Patiala as State Social Impact Assessment Unit (SIAU) to carry out Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) and prepare Social Impact Management Plans (SIMPs).

Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that under the provisions of ‘The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 “(Act No. 30 of 2103), a SIA and SIMP was required before making preliminary notification u/s 11 of the said Act. This unit would now be responsible for having SIAs conducted, and SIMPs prepared as per provisions of the said Act and its relevant Rules.

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ECI DISQUALIFIES 9 OF PUNJAB TO CONTEST

ELECTIONS

Chandigarh, March 10: The Election Commission of India ( ECI ) has circulated a list of nine persons from Punjab , who have been disqualified under Section 10-A of Representation of the People Act, 1951 from contesting elections.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said that the list of disqualified persons included Mr. Kulwinder Singh ( Jalalabad), Mr. Hans Raj ( Jalalabad), and Mr Kulwinder Singh ( Muktsar ) have been barred to contest elections till 9th May 2014,whereas Mr. Karnail Singh s/o Mr. Baltej Singh resident of Village Sikhanwala ( Faridkot), Mr. Swarn Singh s/o Mr. Chand Singh ( Faridkot ), Smt. Gurdev Singh w/o Mr. Baldev Singh ( Fardidkot ), Smt. Prabhjot Kaur w/o Sh. Sukhjinder Singh ( Faridkot ), Sh. Nirmal Singh ( Village Bhadal Thuha ) and Mr. Prem Kumar ( Nabha ) have also been disqualified to contest elections till 7th  August 2016.    

The spokesman further said that this list has been provided to all the Returning Officers in the state.

 

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PUNJAB ANNOUNCES ROTATIONAL IRRIGATION PROGRAM FROM MARCH 11 TO 18

 CHANDIGARH, MARCH 10:

The Irrigation Department, Punjab has announced the Rotational Program for irrigation for the Rabi Season through Canal water from 11-03-2014 to 18-03-2014. The channels and branches off-taking from Ropar Head Works, the channels of Sirhind Canal System would run on the priority basis from, Abohar Branch, Patiala Feeder, Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab Canal and Sidhwan Branch respectively.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesman of the Irrigation Department said that direct distributaries of BML, Ghaggar Link and its off-taking channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and Patiala Minor in Group ‘B’, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in direct distributaries in Group ‘A’ respectively.

The spokesman further said that Punjab channels and Branches off-taking from Harike and Ferozepur Head Works, Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its distributaries, in Group ‘B’, being in the first preference, would run to their indent. Balance water supplies available, would be utilized in all the direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group ‘A’.

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

 

CEO SEEKS COOPERATION FROM POLITICAL PARTIES TO ENSURE FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS IN PUNJAB

·      ASKS TO STRICTLY ADHERE TO THE MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT

·      UNDERLINES THE NEED FOR ENROLLMENT OF LEFT OVER VOTERS

·       REVIEWS ARRANGEMENTS FOR MARCH 9 VOTER MELA WITH ALL DEOs THROUGH VIDEO CONFERENCING

CHANDIGAH, MARCH 7:

            Punjab Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Mr. V.K. Singh today sought cooperation from the representative of all political parties to ensure free and fair Lok Sabha elections in the state with strict implementation of model code of conduct thereby encouraging the voters for ethical voting to strengthen the institute of democracy.

            Presiding over an all party representatives’ meeting here, Mr. Singh said that state was going for Lok Sabha poll on April 30, 2014 and the notification for these elections would be issued on April 2. He pointed out that it becomes imperative for all political parties and their candidates to strictly adhere to the model code of conduct for the smooth, transparent and participative election process. He said that as per the directions of Election Commission of India (ECI) around 700 special teams, which includes 3 each static teams and flying squads besides a video surveillance team for each assembly constituency to check any malpractice or violation of code during the ongoing election process.

            The CEO said that all the political parties and their candidates should ensure strict compliance of ECI’s directions regarding expenditure limit, which was increased to 70 lacs with special emphasis on up-keeping the expenditure account that too according to the rate list being provided by the concerned District Electoral Officer (DEO). He mentioned that ECI has taken strong notice of paid news and surrogate advertisements and every suspicious news or advertisement would be scrutinized by the Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMC) and if found paid or surrogated then the expenditure on those would be included in the expenditure of concerned candidate. He further said that all the parties should submit their list of star campaigners to the ECI in time so that expenditure related to such campaigners would be proportionately added to the party as well as candidate/candidates expenditure. He categorically said that every printed publicity matter must mention the name of printer and publisher.

            He informed that as per the directions of ECI , a special “voter mela” was being organized throughout the state on March 9, 2014 at all 22018 polling booths with the twin purpose ; firstly to give an opportunity to the voters to check their names in electoral rolls and secondly to give left over voters a chance to get them registered as voters by filling form No-6. He exhorted the political parties to send their representatives on the polling booths to facilitate voters as well as booth level officers.

            Later on, accompanied by Mr. Raminder Singh, Additional CEO and Mr. B. Purusartha, Additional CEO (SVEEP), the CEO Mr. V.K. Singh reviewed the arrangements for March 9 voter mela with all DEOs through video conferencing and directed them to personally or through their subordinate officers visit at least 10 per cent polling booths of their respective jurisdiction. He further directed them to keep a strict vigil on any case or news regarding violation of model code of conduct.

            Prominent amongst other, who attended the meeting includes; Mr. K.K. Sachdeva (SAD), Mr. Gurnam Kanwar (CPI), Mr. Nirmal Chand (INC) and Mr. Raghunath Singh and Mr. Ranjit Singh (CPI-M).

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CM, DEPUTY CM AND MAJITHIA CONDOLES THE PASSING AWAY OF VIDYA DEVI THE WIFE OF CHIEF PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY CH. NAND LAL

MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE ALSO OBSERVES TWO MINUTE SILENCE

CHANDIGARH MARCH 07: 

Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal today deeply mourned the sad demise of Vidya Devi (62) the wife of Chief Parliamentary Secretary and MLA Balachaur Ch. Nand Lal.  She died here at official residence last night after a prolonged illness due to liver cancer and is survived by her husband and two sons.   

Sharing heartfelt sympathies with the members of the bereaved family, both the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength to them to bear this huge loss in this hour of crisis.    

Information & Public Relations Minister Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia also condoled the passing away of Smt. Vidya Devi. 

          Meanwhile, the members of the house also condoled the sad demise of Smt. Vidya Devi and also observed a two-minute silence in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha before it was adjourned sine dine. 

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SPECIALIZED TRAINING PROGRAMME ON REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR E-GOVERNANCE IMPLEMENTATION ORGANISED

Chandigarh, March 7: Punjab Governance Reforms Department conducted a 2 Day Specialized eGovernance Training Programme (STeP) on “Regulatory Framework for e-Governance Implementation’ (S2- RF) in the state.

While addressing the participants Mr. C. Roul Principal Secretary Governance Reforms, Government of Punjab laid special focus on the importance of Regulatory Framework for e-Governance implementation in e-Governance projects. He  said that this programme was organized to equip officers with skills and knowledge on “ Regulatory Framework for e-Governance Implementation (S2 RF)’ for State level e-Governance initiatives and e- Governance projects being implemented in the state under National e-Governance Plan (NeGP). He added that this training was organized in coordination with National Institute for Smart Government (NISG), Hyderabad to build State Capacity Building as per guidelines of Department of Electronics &  Information Technology (DeitY), Ministry of Communications & Information Technology, Government of India.

Mrs. Kavita Singh Special Secretary Cum Director Governance Reforms, Government of Punjab briefing about the conference said that this workshop was organised for the officers of various departments who are expected to lead /play crucial role in eGovernance implementation in their regions. She also shared her perspective on the significance of Regulatory Framework for e-Governance projects.

During the 2 days program on Regulatory Framework for e-Governance Implementation’ (S2- RF) participants were enriched with the knowledge on overview of Legal & Regulatory Framework , IT Act, 2000 & Amendments of 2008 , Digital Signature Regime , Cyber Crime Provisions in IT Act , Procurement in e-Governance , Contract Management: Understanding contracts , Contract Management aspects of different types of projects .

The training was attended by senior officers/ Officials from various Departments and District Offices of State of Punjab. Sh. Rajnish Malhotra Head SeMT, from Department of Governance Reforms, Government of Punjab, Welcomed distinguished officers for Two days specialized training program on Regulatory Framework for e-Governance Implementation’ (S2- RF).

The specialized Training Programme on Regulatory Framework for e-Governance Implementation’ (S2- RF), was conducted by Sh. Vakul Sharma and Smt. Seema Sharma from NISG.

This 2 day event was concluded by with the presentation by Mr. Rajnish Malhotra Head SeMT. He also distributed participation certificates to the officers / officials at the valedictory function.

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SPECIAL COMMITTEE TO BE RECONSTITUTED TO REVIEW PROPERTY TAX IN PUNJAB

Chandigarh, March 4, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

·        SENIOR CONGRESS LEADERS ARE SHUNNING THE PARTY TICKETS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chandigarh, March 4-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 CHANDIGARH, MARCH 4:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 4:

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

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

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

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GOVERNOR FOR EARLY RESOLUTION OF INTER-STATE ISSUES

PLEADS FOR COOPERATIVE FEDERALISM IN THE COUNTRY

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chandigarh, March 3-, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 KAPIL SIBAL WRITES TO CM IN THIS BEHALF

 

CHANDIGARH MARCH 03:

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

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

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

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

 

·        DEPARTMENT TO FILL 361 VARIOUS POSTS IN THE DEPARTMENT

·        BABA FARID UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES TO CONDUCT WRITTEN TEST

 

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 3:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 3:

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

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

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT APPEALS TO NURSES TO RETURN TO WORK

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

·        SAD-BJP TO CONTEST ENSUING ELECTIONS ON DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

CHANDIGARH MARCH 2:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT PROPOSES REGULAR PAY SCALES FOR ANMs & NRHM EMPLOYEES

CHANDIGARH, MARCH 1:

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

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

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