Born and raised in Pathankot, Sunny Kaler represents a generation that believes success is not only measured by personal achievement, but also by the ability to contribute to society. Despite having opportunities to pursue a professional career outside his hometown, Sunny chose to remain closely connected to his roots, focusing his energy on community engagement and public welfare initiatives that directly impact local residents.

People who know Sunny often describe him as approachable, thoughtful, and deeply grounded in values. His personality reflects a rare combination of modern education and traditional principles — qualities that have helped him build trust among residents from all walks of life. Whether interacting with senior citizens, students, working professionals, or local families, he is known for his respectful communication and genuine interest in understanding people’s concerns.

Sunny’s educational background has played an important role in shaping his perspective. As an MBA graduate, he brings organizational thinking, discipline, and a solution-oriented mindset to every challenge he encounters. However, unlike many who view education solely as a pathway to personal advancement, Sunny believes knowledge carries a broader responsibility. According to him, education should empower individuals to improve their communities, create opportunities for others, and encourage positive social change.

Residents of Ward No. 13 appreciate Sunny not only for his ideas, but also for his consistent involvement in local matters. He is often seen participating in community discussions, supporting youth activities, and encouraging constructive dialogue among residents. His belief in collective progress and cooperation has helped him connect with people who value sincerity and action over publicity.

One of the defining qualities of Sunny Kaler is his ability to listen. In conversations with local residents, he focuses on understanding issues patiently rather than rushing to provide answers. This thoughtful approach has earned him respect from many people who believe effective leadership begins with empathy and communication. His calm and composed nature allows him to connect with individuals in a way that feels personal and genuine.

Friends and supporters frequently mention Sunny’s enthusiasm and positive energy as qualities that naturally motivate those around him. He is seen as someone who approaches every responsibility with dedication and optimism, always encouraging people to think constructively about the future of their community. His outlook reflects confidence in the potential of Pathankot and its younger generation.

Sunny Kaler also believes strongly in the importance of youth participation in social development. He encourages young people to remain connected to their communities, take interest in local issues, and contribute positively through education, awareness, and responsible citizenship. According to him, lasting progress can only be achieved when communities work together with unity and shared purpose.

In addition to his community-oriented mindset, Sunny is admired for maintaining humility despite growing public recognition. Those close to him say he remains approachable and respectful in every interaction, never allowing popularity to distance him from ordinary people. This quality has strengthened his image as a dependable and trustworthy individual who values relationships and community bonds above personal recognition.

Pathankot has long been known for its cultural warmth, resilience, and strong sense of community spirit. Young individuals like Sunny Kaler reflect these same qualities while bringing fresh ideas and modern perspectives to local conversations. His journey demonstrates how educated youth can play a meaningful role in strengthening social harmony, encouraging civic participation, and building stronger neighborhoods through everyday involvement.

As conversations around leadership and public engagement continue to evolve, many residents see Sunny Kaler as part of a positive and responsible new generation — one that believes real leadership begins with service, listening, and staying connected to the people.

With his educational background, grounded personality, and dedication toward community welfare, Harinder Singh “Sunny Kaler” continues to inspire confidence among residents of Pathankot. His growing presence in local social and community initiatives reflects a simple yet powerful message: meaningful change begins when individuals choose to invest their energy, values, and vision into the place they proudly call home.

Chandigarh, June 8: The Punjab Government has released an amount of Rs. 91.46 crore as part of its share of the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) students for the academic year 2023-24. This significant disbursement will benefit 1,17,346 students whose scholarships were pending.

          Divulging this information, Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that providing education to Scheduled Caste children is the main priority of the state government. She mentioned that the main goal of this scheme is to provide assistance to students from extremely poor families to complete their education.

          Cabinet Minister said that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is constantly working for the welfare of all sections of society, while also focusing on the welfare of Scheduled Caste students.

          Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that with the release of this amount, the standard of living of Scheduled Caste students can be improved.

          Minister further informed that the payment of financial assistance is made directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

Mohali, 13th May 2023:  "J.P. Eye Hospital," a unit of  Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital yesterday held a press conference in Mohali in which the campaign to spread awareness for eye donation was discussed and announced that a Walkathon of 5 Kilometres would be organized on Sunday, May 14, to encourage eye donation and prevent blindness. Participants from various walks of life and from all age groups of Tricity showed big enthusiasm to participate in this event for the noble cause.

During this press conference, Mr. Harsimran Singh Bal PPS, DSP Mohali was present on behalf of Dr. Sandeep Garg (IPS), SSP, Mohali, Ms. Sonia Mann (Punjabi actor and social activist), Ms. Gurvinder Kaur (Punjabi TV actor), and Mr. JS Jayara (Principal, Institute for Blind, Sector 26, Chd), presented their views about the importance of Eye Donation.

This Campaign is organized by J P Eye Hospital, A Unit of Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, India’s biggest corporate chain of eye hospitals; as its social responsibility towards our Nation.

Dr Jatinder Singh, Medical Director and Head of clinical services of Mohali Unit shared information about this campaign as well as the importance of eye donation.

The start of this campaign is scheduled for Sunday, May 14, from 5:30 a.m. until 7:30 a.m. A walkathon campaign will be organized from J.P. Eye Hospital, 35 Phase 7 Mohali, to the Phase 7 Market parking area. Mr Gurpreet Singh Bhullar (IPS, IGP, Commissioner, Punjab Police) and Mrs Aashika Jain (IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Mohali), have consented to flag off the walkathon at 6.15 am on Sunday.SSP Mohali Dr Sandeep Garg IPS and Famous artists of the Punjabi film industry Mr. Jaswinder Bhalla and Ms.Gurvinder Kaur, will be joining this event on Sunday.

A brief about Dr Agarwals Healthcare Ltd and J P Eye Hospital:

Dr. Agarwals healthcare ltd is the biggest chain of eye super-specialty hospitals in India and abroad, headquartered in Chennai. It has 145 centers across India and 14 centers internationally. Prof. Dr.Amar Agarwal, the chairman of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital stated the importance of eye donation in India with existing 1.2Lakh corneal blinds.

Prof Dr. Amar Agarwal stressed the need for Eye Donation in reality. Many people pledge their eyes but in case of their demise, the main purpose of eye donation is defeated. So it is my humble request that EVERY CITIZEN OF INDIA MUST ENSURE THE DONATION OF THEIR EYES AFTER THEIR DEATH. 

"J.P. Eye Hospital," a unit of  Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, is NABH accredited hospital and has been one of the most prominent, reliable, and trusted eye super-specialty hospitals in this Region since its inception in 1995.

Founder of JP Eye Hospital, Dr Jatinder Singh Expressing his gratitude for this initiative, said, Our main motto is “Prevention and cure of Worldwide blindness”. On the Charitable front, we have conducted more than 850 free eye operation camps in the region of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, HP, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh in which more than 3 lakh people were examined free of cost, more than 150000 spectacles were distributed free of cost and more than 90000 free successful eye operations with lens implantations were conducted.

Out of the total blindness 10 million prevalent in India, 1.2 lacks are corneal blind who need corneal transplantations, and there were only 23000 eye donations in years 21-22 and 56000 in years 22-23. Out of these only 27000 eyes could be used purposefully and others were not worthy of transplantation. Our Dr. Agarwals Eye Bank contributed to the 3016 eye retrieval processes in 2022-2023 and a total of 1021 transplantations were done by Dr. Agarwals group of eye hospitals collectively all over India.

We, The team of J P Eye Hospital, request everyone to join this campaign- A WALK AGAINST BLINDNESS  and be a part of this initiative for eradicating curable blindness.

Mr. Harsimran Singh Bal PPS, DSP- Mohali was present on behalf of Dr. Sandeep Garg IPS, SSP Mohali stated, "As there is a saying, Donation of an eye is the greatest donation," and J.P Eye Hospital, is an organization that takes this initiative to reach the people. I am very happy and proud to be a part of this initiative. I appeal to everyone to join us in this campaign."

Mr. J.S. Jayara expressed his gratitude and said, "We are thankful to J.P. Eye Hospital, Mohali, for organizing an eye donation awareness walkathon. I request all the general public to come and join this mission to make it successful."

Mrs.Gurvinder Kaur said, "I am thankful to J.P. Eye Hospital for giving me the opportunity to associate with this noble cause. I request everyone to get together in support of this walkathon and understand the importance of eye donation."

Dr Sonia Mann stated, "I consider myself extremely fortunate to take part in social awareness campaigns, which is why I came here to support this great initiative by J P Eye Hospital a Unit of Dr. Agarwals  Eye Hospital"

Four Pistols, Ammunition And Two Motorcycles Recovered From Their Possession

Punjab Police Committed To Make Punjab A Safe And Secure State As Per Vision Of Cm Bhagwant Mann

Key Accused Vijay Alias Toti Wanted In 18 Cases Of Drugs, Illegal Weapons, Kidnapping And Extortion

Chandigarh/Jalandhar, February 10:

          As part of the ongoing drive against anti-social elements launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Police arrested an associate of Canada-based terrorist Lakhbir Singh alias Landa and his three aides after recovering four pistols along with ammunition from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Friday.

          The arrested key accused has been identified as Vijay Kumar alias Toti of village Bhikha Nangal in Kartarpur, Jalandhar, while, his three aides have been identified as Amardeep Singh alias Patwari, Sooraj Singh and Rahul Lahoch, all residents of Jalandhar. Whereas, all the accused persons are History-sheeters, the main accused Vijay alias Toti has been facing as many as 18 criminal cases pertaining to drugs, illegal weapons, kidnapping and extortion.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that acting on a reliable input that accused Vijay along with his gang members were hatching a conspiracy to commit crime in Kartarpur area, Police teams from Jalandhar Rural promptly conducted special naka near Drain in Durgi area of Jalandhar and successfully arrested all the four accused persons, who were travelling on two motorcycles.

          He said that the Police impounded both the motorcycles and have recovered four pistols including two .32 bore country-made pistols along with 10 live cartridges, one 9 mm country-made pistol along with two live cartridges and one .12 bore country made pistol along with one live cartridge from their possession.

          Divulging more details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jalandhar Rural said that two of the arrested accused persons were also wanted by Kapurthala Police in kidnapping case, wherein they had abducted a resident of Gaji Gadana village in Kapurthala district and sought Rs 3 crore as ransom for his release. The case FIR was registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Police Station Dhilwan in Kapurthala.

          Meanwhile, a fresh case FIR no. 16 has been registered under sections 379-B, 386, 392 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Kartarpur.

PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO MAKE PUNJAB A DRUG-FREE STATE AS PER VISION OF CM BHAGWANT MANN

PUJAB POLICE BUST ANOTHER TRANS-BORDER DRUG SMUGGLING NETWORK; ONE HELD WITH 5KG HEROIN, Rs 12.15L DRUG MONEY

ARRESTED DRUG SMUGGLER WAS ON THE WAY TO DELIVER DRUG CONSIGNMENT AFTER RECEIVING PAYMENT, SAYS DGP GAURAV YADAV

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR, January 29: In yet another major success against trans-border smuggling networks amidst the ongoing war against drugs launched on the directions of Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Police have arrested a drug smuggler after recovering five packets of heroin, weighing 5Kg, and Rs 12.15 lakh drug money from his possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Sunday.

The arrested drug smuggler has been identified as Rashpal Singh alias Pala, a resident of village Kakkar in Lopoke, Amritsar.

The development came just a month after Punjab Police had busted an elaborate trans-border drug smuggling cartel with the arrest of its two drug smugglers after recovering 10 packets of heroin, weighing 10Kg, from their possession in village Thaman in Gurdaspur.

DGP Gaurav Yadav said that following reliable inputs, Police teams of Counter Intelligence (CI) Amritsar carried out a special operation near village Thattha in Lopoke, Amritsar and successfully arrested the drug smuggler, when he was on the way to deliver the drug consignment to the buyer after receiving payment from some other party. Preliminary investigations revealed that the consignment of drugs was pushed by Pakistan-based smugglers using a drone, he said.

AIG CI Amritsar Amarjit Singh Bajwa said that accused Rashpal alias Pala is a notorious drug smuggler. Further investigations are on to find out the receiver of the consignment and the person who paid him for the drugs, he said.

Meanwhile, a case FIR no. 3 has been registered under sections 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act at Police Station SSOC Amritsar.

H&UD Minister directs officials to make all necessary arrangements on time to ensure huge success of the mega event

• Asks officials to pull up socks to complete much needed projects i.e. widening of roads and beautification of Mohali city

Chandigarh/SAS Nagar, January 12: In order to make the Chief Minister S Bhagwant Mann led Punjab Government's first Progressive Punjab Investors Summit a big success, Punjab Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Minister Mr. Aman Arora, on Thursday, reviewed the preparations being made for the mega event to be held in this February. He also directed the officials to ramp up the road infrastructure and special focus should be laid on the beautification of Mohali, the model city of Punjab.

Chairing a review meeting at PUDA Bhawan, SAS Nagar, the H&UD Minister directed the officials of Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) to ensure that all the roads leading from the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport to the venue of the summit are repaired well in time. The summit will go a long way in ensuring holistic industrial development of the state and elaborate arrangements should be made to make this mega event a huge success.

He also asked officials to make all the necessary arrangements for the G20 Summit scheduled to be held from 30th to 31st January.

Asking to take necessary steps to beautify the roads and roundabouts, Mr. Aman Arora directed the concerned officials of Engineering Wing of GMADA to execute the paint work pertaining to electricity poles, roundabouts, kerbs and plant flowers on either side of the roads. 

To smoothen the traffic movement in Mohali city, Mr. Aman Arora discussed a plan with officials to remove traffic bottle-necks at congested roads, where problem of traffic congestion is prevalent.

The H&UD Minister was apprised that the project to widen the three roads includes Kumbra Chowk (Dividing road chowk of Sector-61/70 and Sector 62/69) to Bawa White House; village Mohali to YPS Chowk; and Sector 62/63/50-51 Chowk to sector 65/48 (Golf Range) is under process and work will be initiated soon.

Prominent among those present in the meeting included Chief Administrator GMADA Mr. Amandeep Bansal, Chief Engineer Mr. Balwinder Singh and other officials of the GMADA.

ON DIRECTIONS OF CHIEF MINISTER BHAGWANT MANN, PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO WIPE OUT DRUG MENACE FROM THE STATE

DRIVE TO ARREST POs/ABSCONDERS IN NDPS ACT CASES WITNESSES SIGNIFICANT SURGE AS TOLL REACHES 573

CHANDIGARH, December 19: Amid the ongoing decisive war against drugs launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Police have arrested 271 drug smugglers/suppliers after registering 192 first information reports (FIRs), including 26 commercial, under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) act across the state in the last week.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Sukhchain Singh Gill, while addressing his weekly Press Conference here on Monday, said that the Police have also recovered 10.08-Kg Heroin, 13.52-Kg opium, 5.52-Kg Ganja, 3.43 quintals of poppy husk, and 54123 tablets/capsules/injections/vials of Pharma opioids besides recovering Rs 17.66 Lakh drug money from their possession.

He said that with 11 more Proclaimed Offenders (POs)/Absconders in NDPS cases arrested in the last week, the total number of arrests reached 573 since the special drive to arrest POs/absconders was started on July 5, 2022.

Pertinently, Director General of Police (DGP), Punjab Gaurav Yadav had given strict instructions to all the CPs/SSPs to investigate backward and forward linkages minutely in each and every case, especially related to drug recoveries, even if they recover a meager amount of drugs.

Meanwhile, on the direction of Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Mann to make Punjab a drug-free state, extensive anti-drug drives have been launched by the Punjab Police to combat the menace of drugs from the border State. The DGP has also strictly ordered all the CPs/SSPs to identify all hotspots where drugs are prevalent and all top drug smugglers in their jurisdictions. He also directed the Police chiefs to effectively forfeit the property of all the arrested drug smugglers so that their ill-gotten money could be recovered.

LAUNCHES ONLINE FACILITY FOR SERVICES OF BAR COUNCIL AND DISTRIBUTE LICENSES TO NEW ADVOCATES

Chandigarh, December 17: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday gave a clarion call to the legal fraternity to play a pivotal role in well being of the society by according top priority for ensuring justice to the weaker and underprivileged sections. 

          The Chief Minister, while chairing a function to launch the online facility for services of Bar Council and distribute licenses to new Advocates here today, said that in the larger public interests, the young Advocates must discharge their responsibility with utmost professional commitment, dedication and sincerity. He said that the lawyers who render their services in a committed manner not only carve a niche for themselves in this field but also bring smile on faces of others by securing justice for them through courts. Bhagwant Mann categorically said that the state government is according top priority to impart quality health services and education to people along with ensuring justice to them, for which various steps are being taken.

          The Chief Minister unequivocally said that a person does not rise overnight as hard work and sincerity is the only key to success. He expressed hope that the new lawyers who were going to start practice now, will make concerted efforts to secure justice to common man.  Bhagwant Mann said that as the new bureaucrats who start the service after clearing UPSC or PPSC exam start their careers from district level offices and Police stations, in the same manner the budding advocates should also acquire perfectionism initially by working with the legal luminaries already working in the field.  

          Responding to various issues raised by the Bar council, the Chief Minister assured them to look into their demands sympathetically.

          On the occasion Advocate General Punjab Vinod Ghai, Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha, Chairman Punjab and Haryana Bar Council Survir Sidhu and others were also present.

Punjab Government committed to fulfill every guarantee, Narinderpal Singh Savna
Eligible beneficiaries to be given benefit of govt schemes at all cost, DC

The district administration has organised a camp at village Mubeke to solve the problems of the people and redressal of the grievances.
    During the camp, MLA Fazilka Mr. Narinder Pal Singh Sawna said that the camps are being organised to provide the fast pace services to the villagers at their doorsteps and to fulfill another guarantee of the Aam Aadmi Government.
 He said that Aam Aadmi Clinics will be come up soon in the border villages so that people can get best health services near the homes. He asked the officials of the various departments to redress the grievances of the people on the spot.
  Deputy Commissioner Dr. Senu Duggal interacted with people to address the pending demands of the people. She said that the district administration is always ready for the welfare  of the people.
During the camp, complaints were received regarding pensions, construction of toilets, construction of stadium, drainage of water etc.
Meanwhile, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mrs. Mandeep Kaur, Tehsildar Sukhdev Kumar Bangar, Deputy DEO Anju Sethi and other officials and dignitaries were present.

TOTAL 12 ACCUSED INCLUDING MVI ARRESTED BY VB

Chandigarh December 10:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has arrested one more absconding accused agent Loveleen Singh Lavi, resident of Central Town, Jalandhar, who colluded with Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI), Jalandhar Naresh Kaler in the vehicle fitness certificates scam. The VB has confiscated his mobile phone and SIM card which would be sent to data experts to gather more information about this scam.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the VB said the Bureau had conducted a surprise check in the office of MVI, Jalandhar and exposed an organized corruption for issuing/receiving fitness certificates without conducting inspection of commercial and private vehicles on a large scale in connivance with private agents.

Giving details he further added that the VB on the basis of sufficient evidence registered a case No 14 dated 23-08-2022 under section 7, 7A of prevention of corruption act and 420, 120-B of IPC at VB police station Jalandhar. In this case total 11 accused have already been arrested and in the jail which includes Naresh Kaler, Rampal alias Radhe, Mohan Lal alias Kalu, Paramjit Singh Bedi, Surjit Singh, Harvinder Singh, Pankaj Dhingra @ Bholu, Brijpal Singh @ Ricky, Arvind Kumar @ Bindu, Varinder Singh @ Deepu and Sapna (All private agents). Further investigation of this case was under progress and the remaining absconding accused would be arrested soon, he added.

Chandigarh, Shivam Madaan : Winters are around the corner which might be exciting for some but a cause of concern for many. Winters being a favorite part of the year for many people is awaited eagerly, feeling cozy and watching their favorite shows online in quilts is the most loved work in winter but the other sad reality is many people living on footpaths lose their lives due to the fact they lack to cover themselves up which is a basic need for living. Statistics have revealed the number of people dying due to cold waves and lack of warm clothes in winter. It is always better done than said, NGOs working on the tagline of humanity seem to justify the same, what can be the best example other than Humanity NGO? Street dogs are also the ones searching for warmth where Humanity NGO plays a part by providing warm sweaters to them.

Humanity NGO headed by Ishu Kalra, Punjab’s renowned social activist works on humanity being the religion. Humanity NGO raises social campaigns and organizes distribution drives in winter for the needy across Punjab. Ishu Kalra is known for deriving the youth towards contributing to positively changing the landscape of social work. Ishu Kalra seems to encourage and invite others to extend helping hands for the very noble cause meanwhile, propagating what he believes, that a change is brought when everyone in the society aspires for it and works towards achieving it.

Also Read “Ishu Kalra of Punjab is bringing positive change in the society, know how he is helping people

His works and contribution very well define his statement of being content in life by helping and giving as much as you can for the welfare of society. He comes to the forefront saying doing all for preventing wrongs and bolding addresses saying not doing anything for public fame but being a constant reminder for people to work for society.

Special Summary Revision of Photo Electoral Roll – 2023 gets commenced withi the publication of draft electoral roll

Four Qualifying dates— 1st January, 1st April, 1st July and 1st October come into force

66.38 percent citizens of Punjab linked their Aadhaar with Voter card on voluntary basis

CHANDIGARH, NOVEMBER 9, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Punjab Dr S Karuna Raju on Wednesday held a meeting with the representatives of political parties to handover the CDs of draft publication of electoral (without photos). Special drive to update the voter list - Special Summary Revision – 2023 has begun with the publication of a draft electoral roll. 

          Dr. Raju apprised the representatives of recognized political parties that consequent upon amendment in the Section 14 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950 and corresponding changes in the Registration of  Electors Rule, 1960, four qualifying dates including, 1st January, 1st April, 1st July and 1st October have come into force starting w.e.f. 1st August 2022.

          CEO Punjab informed the representatives of political parties that as per the directions of Election Commission of India, the process of collection of Aadhar number of registered electors on Voluntary Basis is being carried out in the state of Punjab, and 66.38 percents electors have already linked their Aadhaar with Voter card.

Commencing from 09.11.2022, the revision activities will be carried out till 08.12.2022 and citizens will also get the opportunity for filing claims and objections during this period. In the meeting, Dr. Raju highlighted the robustness of the electoral process and demonstrated how transparency has been introduced at every step utilising technology. 

          Seeking cooperation of political parties, CEO Punjab stated that special camps will be held on 19th and 20th November, 2022, and 3th and 4th December, 2022, where Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will be present at their respective polling stations.  He also appealed to all the representatives of political parties to appoint Booth Level Agents (BLAs) and participate in the Special Camps to ensure enrolment of eligible electors.

          The representatives of the political parties who attended the meeting include Harnek Singh and Sukhdev Singh of Bahujan Samaj Party, Mohinder Pal Singh of Communist Party of India and Arshdeep S Kler of Shiromani Akali Dal, Pankaj Gautam of Nationalist Congress Party and Harchand Singh Barsat of Aam Aadmi Party.

Pays Obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib

Prays for Peace, Progress and Prosperity in The State

Greets People on Auspicious Occasion of Parkash Purb

Sri Aanandpur Sahib, November 8: On sacred occasion of Parkash purb of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday paid obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and announced that Anand Marriage Act will be implemented in true letter and spirit.

          The Chief Minister said that the act was notified in 2016 but had been hanging in fire since then. He said that though several other states have already implemented this act but Punjab had lagged behind. Bhagwant Mann said that this act will be now implemented in right earnest.

          The Chief Minister paid obeisance at Takht Sahib and prayed to almighty for the peace, progress and prosperity in the state. He also prayed that the ethos of communal harmony, peace and brotherhood are strengthened in the state with every passing day and Punjab leads the country in every sphere. Extending his heartiest greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Prakash Purb, Bhagwant Mann said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji was a great spiritual ambassador who guided the humanity to attain salvation by spreading the cult of devotion to God. He said that Guru Ji’s eternal teachings of ‘Kirat Karo, Naam Japo and Vand Chako’ are still relevant in the present materialistic society.

          The Chief Minister said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji envisioned a casteless society free from rituals, thereby redeeming the suffering humanity from the pangs of agony. He said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji motivated mankind with new ideas, aims, and aspirations and called upon it to dispense with the maladies of hypocrisy, falsehood, pretensions and caste-prejudices. Bhagwant Mann appealed the people to imbibe the spirit of service and humility as preached by the Great Guru and strive hard for carving out a peaceful, prosperous and healthy society by following the precious legacy of Guru Nanak Dev ji .

          The Chief Minister exhorted people to celebrate this sacred occasion with utmost devotion and dedication rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion. He said that through his udaasis Guru Nanak Dev ji, who is revered across the globe as Jagat Guru, preached communal harmony and brotherhood. Likewise, Bhagwant Mann said that Guru Nanak Dev ji through his teachings opposed tyranny, injustice and oppression during the invasion of Mughal emperor Babar.

          Quoting verse ‘Pawan Guru, Paani Pitaah, Mata Dharat Mahat’ from Gurbani, the Chief Minister said that Guru ji have equated air (pawan) with teacher, water (paani) with father and land (dharat) with mother. Bhagwant Mann said that Guru ji had at that time taught the people to preserve environment when its pollution no where in scene. He said that Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji was also a firm advocate of women empowerment and equal status for females in the society.

On instructions of Chief Minister, CS directs strict monitoring of transport vehicles

Chandigarh, November 7 Following the instructions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to improve the management of sand transportation to provide sand to the people of the state at reasonable prices, Chief Secretary Vijay Kumar Janjua held a meeting with the Department of Transport and Mining and directed strict monitoring of vehicles carrying sand.

During a meeting at the Punjab Civil Secretariat here today, the Chief Secretary said that the sand carrying vehicles (tippers/trucks/trailers etc.) should be checked by ensuring strict compliance with the instructions of the Chief Minister and if any vehicle violates the rules, strict action should be taken against the guilty. He said that the price of sand has been fixed at Rs. 9 per cubic foot, but due to the high price charged by the sand transporters, the people get sand at exorbitant rates which will not be tolerated.

The Chief Secretary authorized the XEN level officials of the Mining Department for checking the vehicles. He also warned the transporters involved in this work. He further divulged that the transport department has also been asked to find a legal way to transport sand by tractor-trolley as the use of tractor-trolley for agriculture is for a limited time twice a year during crop sowing and harvesting. With this, while the farmers will get financial help, the people will also get sand at a reasonable price.

The Principal Secretary Mining Krishan Kumar and Principal Secretary Transport Vikas Garg were also present at the meeting.

Police Teams Recovered Rs 4.49cr Drug Money, 300 Kg Opium, 197kg Ganja, 293 Quintals of Poppy Husk & 27.56 Lakhs Tablets/Capsules/Injections/Vials since July 5

Punjab Police Registers 5346 firs under ndps act since special drive started on directions of cm Bhagwant Mann

Drive to arrest pos/absconders in ndps act cases witnesses significant surge as toll reaches 383

508 drug smugglers/suppliers held with 26.5kg heroin, 13kg ganja, 17kg opium, rs 4.5 lakh drug money in a fortnight

Chandigarh, October 31, With the decisive war against drugs waged on the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Mann to root out drugs entered fifth month, Punjab Police have arrested as many as 6997 drug smugglers including 1097 big fish since July 5, 2022. The Police have registered a total of 5346 first information reports (FIRs) of which 580 are related to commercial quantity.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Sukhchain Singh Gill, who was addressing his weekly Press Conference here on Monday said that the Police teams have recovered 259.7Kg Heroin from across the state after carrying out cordon and search operations in drug-affected areas besides laying nakas at vulnerable routes across the state. Additionally, 147.5Kg heroin was recovered by the teams of Punjab Police from Seaports of Gujarat and Maharashtra, taking the total effective recovery of heroin to 406.5Kgs in just four months, he said.

Apart from seizing big-haul of heroin, the IGP said that Police have also recovered 300Kg opium, 197.2Kg Ganja, 293 quintals of poppy husk, and 27.56 lakhs tablets/capsules/injections/vials of Pharma opioids from across the state. The Police have also recovered Rs 4.49 crores of drug money from the possession of drug smugglers arrested in these four months.

Giving fortnightly update, the IGP said that in last two weeks, the police have arrested 508 drug smugglers/suppliers after registering 399 first information reports (FIRs), including 54 commercial, and recovered 26.5Kg Heroin, 17Kg opium, 13.8Kg Ganja, 19 quintals of poppy husk, and 1.20 lakh tablets/capsules/injections/vials of Pharma opioids besides recovering Rs 4.5 lakh drug money from their possession.

He said that with seven more Proclaimed Offenders (POs)/Absconders in NDPS cases arrested in the last two weeks, the total number of arrests reached 383 since the special drive to arrest POs/absconders was started on July 5, 2022.

Pertinently, Director General of  Police  (DGP), Punjab Gaurav Yadav had given strict instructions to all the CPs/SSPs to investigate backward and forward linkages minutely in each and every case, especially related to drug recoveries, even if they recover a meager amount of drugs.

 Meanwhile, on the direction of Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Mann to make Punjab a drug-free state, extensive anti-drug drives have been launched by the Punjab Police to combat the menace of drugs from the border State. The DGP has also strictly ordered all the CPs/SSPs to identify all hotspots where drugs are prevalent and all top drug smugglers in their jurisdictions. He also directed the Police chiefs to effectively forfeit the property of all the arrested drug smugglers so that their ill-gotten money could be recovered.

Pays Tribute to Lord Vishwakarma at Dhuri

Asserts That Punjab Government is Committed for Restoring The Pristine Glory of State

Dhuri (Sangrur), October 25 (Shivam Madaan) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday exhorted the people to follow the path shown by Lord Vishwakarma to make Punjab a frontrunner state in the country.

          Addressing the gathering here during a function to mark Vishwakarma Day here today, the Chief Minister, while paying tributes to Lord Vishwakarma, said that he was divine architect of the entire universe, who is believed to be the master of all machinery and equipments being used by the people in the industrial activities. He called on the people to follow the footsteps of this great Deity of all craftsmen and architects. Bhagwant Mann said that Lord Vishwakarma has ever inspired the artisans, workers and labour class to work hard with utmost dedication and commitment to develop the nation.

          The Chief Minister said that in line with the ideology and teachings of Lord Vishwakarma, Punjabis across the globe have proved their mettle by contributing tremendously in socio-economic growth of various countries. He impressed upon the industrialists to make a solemn pledge of making whole hearted efforts for promoting skill training as it will be a real tribute to Lord Vishwakarma. Bhagwant Mann said that it will not only help in generating employment for the youth but would also play a pivotal role in putting the state on a high growth trajectory.

          The Chief Minister, while allaying the fear of global recession, said that wherever Punjabis are working this economic slowdown will never come. He said that Punjabis are hard working and are blessed with tremendous unbounded energy and enormous capabilities to excel in every field. Bhagwant Mann said that with these traits, Punjabis work very hard and ensure that no slowdown comes in any field.

          Listing the several path breaking initiatives of the Aam Aadmi Government in Punjab, the Chief Minister said that from July 1 onwards the Punjab government has provided 600 units of free power to people in every bill cycle. He said that as a result of this around 50 lakh households out of total 72.66 lakh) have got zero power bill in the month of September. Bhagwant Mann said that this has given major reprieve to the people from every section of the society.

          The Chief Minister further said that in a historic decision aimed at the well being of the government employees, the state government has restored the old age pension scheme for the employees of the Punjab. He said that the Old Pension Scheme was discontinued in 2004 and ever since then the employees are being given New Pension Scheme. Bhagwant Mann said that keeping in view the well being of the lakhs of employees the Old Pension scheme in the state has been restored which will ensure security to lakh of employees.

          The Chief Minister said that 16 new Medical colleges will be constructed in the coming five years thereby enhancing the total tally of medical colleges to 25 thus transforming Punjab into a hub of medical education. He said that the students aspiring to pursue medical education will no longer have to go to countries like Ukraine as they will be provided quality medical education in these medical colleges. Bhagwant Mann said that earlier governments have not paid any attention towards it but the focus of his government is that every district must be touched by a medical college.

          The Chief Minister said that Punjab government is committed to restore the pristine glory of the state and no stone is being left unturned for this noble cause. He said that the state government has taken several pro-people and development oriented steps in this regard. Bhagwant Mann said that in the coming days too more such path breaking initiatives will be taken.

          The Chief Minister also announced to give facelift to Hospitals at Dhuri and Sangrur to impart quality health services to people. He also said that driving test centre for heavy licenses will also be operational soon at Dhuri to avoid inconvenience caused to people while visiting Mahuana centre for same purpose. Bhagwant Mann also announced that work on construction of Railway Overbridge at Dhuri will also be started soon by the Railways.

Punjab government to recruit 634 Specialist Doctors

Chandigarh, October 19, In a major step forward for improving the health care facilities in the state of Punjab , the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann led State Government is augmenting the workforce of the health department, the Directorate of Health & Family Welfare has issued a public notice for Walk in Interview to recruit 634  (Number of posts may increase or decrease) Medical Officers (Specialist) for the various specialities. The interview would be held on November 9 and 10th from 10:00 am onwards at Directorate Health and Family Welfare Punjab, Parivar Kalyan Bhawan, Sector-34-A, Chandigarh.

Disclosing this here today, the Health & Family Welfare Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra said that ever since he took charge of the health department, he noticed that there is shortage of specialist doctors especially in the rural areas as previous governments have not bothered to improve the health care facilities in public health institutions of Punjab.

Disclosing more about this massive recruitment drive in the health department Mr. Jauramajra stated that these 634 vacancies comprise different specialities such as 103 pertaining to Medicine, General Surgery  78, Gynaecology 100,  Paediatrics 122,  Anaesthesia 75,  Ortho 11, Radiology 31, ENT 16,  Ophthalmology 16 ,  Skin & VD 24,  Psychiatry 10, Chest & TB 6,  Pathology 12, Microbiology 5, Community Medicine 4,  BTO 9  and Forensic Medicine 12.

The Speciality wise break-up, application format & other details may be seen at https://nhm.punjab.gov.in/. Candidates are requested to submit the online application form at https://nhm.punjab.gov.in/ till 01.11.2022. They are also requested to submit their all documents (Self attested) at the Directorate, Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, Parivar Kalyan Bhawan, Sector-34/A, Chandigarh at the time of counselling/ interview.

Instructions to ensure office attendance from 9 am to 5 pm

Chandigarh/SAS Nagar, October 12, Minister of Transport Mr. Laljit Singh Bhullar paid a surprise visit to RTA office Mohali today and reviewed the work going on in the office.

           Giving more information in this regard, the official spokesperson said that the Minister of Transport went to the public counters at the RTA office this morning, where he got the details of the work being done from the employees and also talked to the people who came to get the work done.  He also interacted with the people and got information about the problems being faced by them. The Minister gave instructions to the officials on the spot to solve the problems faced by the people.

Explaining the purpose of today's visit, Mr. Bhullar said that the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Mr. Bhagwant Singh is committed to bring administrative reform and transparency in government work so that people do not have to face any hassle in government offices.  On this occasion, he instructed the officials of the RTA office to ensure the attendance of the employees from 9 am to 5 pm.

He instructed the officials and employees of the RTA office that if someone's papers are incomplete they should be told about it at the first instance so that they do not have to visit the office again and again. Apart from this, he said that the list of required documents should also be posted on the board so that people can apply only after reading it.

He said that the government will soon start biometric attendance of employees so that timely presence of employees in the offices can be ensured.

          On this occasion, RTA SAS Nagar Mr. Pardeep Singh Dhillon and other officers were specially present.

Move aimed at facilitating the people for submitting applications regarding khangi taqseem through a single click

Chandigarh, October 12-

In a significant decision aimed at facilitating the citizens of the state by digitalizing the functioning of the Revenue Department, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday launched a website to further streamline the process to enroll Khangi Taqseem (family partition).

Launching the website https://eservices.punjab.gov.in , the Chief Minister described it as a revolutionary decision to facilitate the residents of the state by further streamlining the process to enroll Khangi Taqseem (family partition). He said that through this website applications of people will be easily submitted for Khangi Taqseem through a single click. Bhagwant Mann said that citizens can apply on this website with details including their Name, Father/Husband Name, Name of the Village, Sub-Tehsil/Tehsil, District, Khata and Khewat Number with simple application.

The Chief Minister said that the applicant will also have to submit a memorandum of proposed partition and field map depicting portioned parcels of land duly signed by all shareholders. Bhagwant Mann said that after processing by concerned Circle Revenue Officer, these online applications will be sent to Kanungo in-charge and then concerned Patwari. He said that after verifying all the facts of the memorandum with the Revenue Record, Patwari will call the parties to be present personally for the official formalities and to initiate the mutation proceedings.

The Chief Minister said that after entering the mutation, concerned Patwaris will present it to the Kanungo for verification and finally before the concerned CRO (Assistant Collector Grade-2) for the final orders. Bhagwant Mann said that a brief order will be entered on the portal against each application after due attestation of the mutation. He said that this citizen centric initiative will go a long way in simplifying the demarcation process adding that disputes will be settled amicably. “This will also ensure ease of buying and selling of land besides making it convenient to get compensation for crop damage and to obtain copy of Zamabandi”, added Bhagwant Mann.

DGP Gaurav Yadav Chairs 3rd oscc Meeting, Reviews Security of Oil & Gas inFrastructures in Punjab

Offers Complete Support From Punjab Police to Oil and Gas Companies

CHANDIGARH, October 12, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, who is also the Chairman of the Onshore Security Coordination Committee (OSCC), assured complete assistance and support from the Punjab Police to the Oil and Gas Companies to ensure the security and safety of oil and gas, which are vital National Assets.

          The DGP was chairing the 3rd OSCC meeting organized by Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) in Chandigarh here on Wednesday, to review the safety measures in place for security of oil installations in the state. The meeting was also attended by ADGP Internal Security RN Dhoke and ADGP Security Sudhanshu Srivastava, Officers from Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Agencies, besides, representatives of all the oil and gas majors including IOCL, HPCL, BPCL, HMEL and Torrent Gas.

          A number of issues such as the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), scaling up of security, keeping vigil via CCTVs and Drone Surveillance was discussed during the meeting, which was aimed at effective coordination between the stakeholders.

           DGP Gaurav Yadav said that although Punjab has been secure so far, the Police and Oil-Gas Companies need to be alert and aware all the time, and should work together for the safety of the oil and gas. He also stressed the need to hold District Level Security Coordination meetings for greater synergy between oil-gas companies and District Police.  

          He also proposed to depute Special Squads, which would exclusively look after the Oil and Gas related crimes. He said that the Punjab Police will also explore the feasibility to link the Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS) or Emergency Response System for prompt action.

          The DGP also reiterated the importance of regular updation of contingency plans and mock drills.

          He requested all oil and gas companies to feel free to reach out to the Punjab Police for any kind of assistance they require.

SAS Nagar is leading among the districts with 44026 patients tested

Chandigarh, October 11:

          Expressing satisfaction over the performance of 100 Aam Aadmi clinics, Punjab Health Minister Mr. Chetan Singh Jauramajra said that during the last two months, 35504 patients have benefited from free health facilities in Aam Aadmi Clinics of Ludhiana. He said that the Aam Aadmi Clinic near Chand Cinema in Ludhiana is leading in the state with the highest number of patients. From August 15 till now (October 11) 6505 patients have had their health checked here.

          Sharing the information, the Cabinet Minister said that 35504 patients have been tested in Ludhiana so far. 6 out of 9 Aam Aadmi Clinics in Ludhiana are located in densely populated areas. He said that after Chand Cinema Clinic, Aam Aadmi Clinic Dhandari Kalan had the highest number of patients (6329), where 544 tests were also conducted. Similarly, 5102 patients were examined at the Aam Aadmi Clinic located on Lalheri Marg in Khanna, while 3676 patients were examined at the clinic in Raikot.

          Mr. Jauramajra said that according to the latest data, a total of 44026 patients have been treated and 5449 lab tests have been done in SAS Nagar, while district Ludhiana has led 23 districts with 35504 patients and 3853 clinical tests, got the second place. Similarly, district Amritsar has bagged the third position with 26377 patients and 3193 clinical tests. Further, the number of patients has reached 3,01,948 from August 15 to September 11, 2022 with a total of 39414 clinical tests across the state.

Instructs officials to re-start buses on amritsar-sri anandpur sahib route from tomorrow onwards

Heard problems of passengers and employees at bus stands, takes stock of cleanliness

Directs gm nangal depot to make immediate passing of stationary buses

Transport minister to visit bus stands across the state in coming days

Chandigarh, October 9, Punjab Transport Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar, on Sunday, conducted a surprise check at the bus stands of Sri Anandpur Sahib and Nangal City and Nangal Bus Depot.

          At Sri Anandpur Sahib Bus Stand, the Transport Minister directed the depot officials to immediately start the public bus service between Sri Anandpur Sahib and Amritsar, the two centers of Sikhism, from tomorrow i.e. October 10. He inquired about the details regarding non-operation of buses on this route at the General Manager's office and instructed the General Manager Paramvir Singh that there is anger among public due to non-operation of buses, so it should be ensured that buses continuously ply on this important route in future.

          Reviewing the cleanliness at the bus stand, shops and toilets, the Transport Minister directed the General Manager to pay more attention towards cleanliness of the bus stand. S. Bhullar, while interacting with the passengers and listening to their problems, said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is paying much attention for making the public bus service more reliable and comfortable.

          The Transport Minister also paid obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. He was bestowed the siropao by the management.

          While visiting the bus stand and bus depot at Nangal city, Transport Minister S. Bhullar enquired about the income deficit of the depot and reason for the stationary buses. The Minister was apprised that due to the construction of a RoB over the railway crossing on the Una highway, many routes are closed and around 18 buses have been shifted to Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana, due to which the income has decreased. The Cabinet Minister, while taking stock of the stationary buses in the Depot, instructed the General Manager Gursewak Singh Rajpal to immediately making arrangement for passing of the buses so that these can be operationalized and the loss of income of the depot could be met. He also instructed the GM to ensure that there should be no shortage of buses' spare parts in the depot.

          On the demand of the depot employees, the Transport Minister assured that the concrete bus washing dug will be constructed soon. He also said that he will visit the bus stands across the state in coming days and take every possible step to make the public bus service meet the aspirations of the people.

State registers growth of 22.6 percent as compared to last FY

Chandigarh, October 05, Punjab Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema said that Punjab has collected  GST of Rs 10604 crore during the first six months of the current financial year, crossing the 10 K mark for  first time since the implementation of the GST regime.

Issuing a statement here, the Finance Minister said that the state has seen a growth  of 22.6 percent in GST collection in the current financial year as against the same period last year.  He further added that during the first six months of the last financial year GST collection stood at Rs 8650 crore whereas during the current year the state has earned Rs 1954 crore more, taking the  total GST collection to Rs 10604 crore.

Disclosing the GST figures for the month of September 2022, Harpal Singh Cheema said that the state has registered a growth rate of 22 percent. He said that the GST collection for September this year was Rs 1710 crore as compared to the collection of Rs 1402 in September 2021.

The Finance Minister said that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann led Punjab Government has estimated a GST collection of Rs 20,550 crore in its maiden budget for the Financial Year 2022-23. “The state has achieved more than 50 percent in the first six months”, said the Finance Minister while adding that the state is expected to see a healthy growth in GST collection during the upcoming festival season.

The Finance Minister said that the state government has passed the Punjab Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill 2022 in the Punjab Assembly to plug all loopholes besides stopping bogus billing which would not only benefit the traders but would also increase the own revenue of the state.

ON DIRECTIONS OF CHIEF MINISTER BHAGWANT MANN, PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO WIPE OUT DRUG MENACE FROM THE STATE

ARRESTED ACCUSED WAS SUPPLYING PHARMA OPIOIDS IN PUNJAB FROM LAST FEW YEARS, SAYS DIG GURPREET BHULLAR

CHANDIGARH/FATEHGARH SAHIB, October 2 As part of the ongoing war against drugs launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Fatehgarh Sahib Police has busted an inter-state pharmaceutical drug cartel with the arrest of a Haryana resident after recovering 2.51 lakh Pharma opioids from his possession.

          Disclosing this, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Anti-Gangster Task Force-cum-Ropar Range Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that the arrested accused has been identified as Ranjit Goswami, Batra Colony in Sonipat, Haryana. The Police have recovered 2,37,000 tablets of Alprazolam and 14,400 of the Pyeevon Spas capsules from his KIA car, in which he was smuggling drugs from Haryana, he added.

          This is the third such inter-state pharmaceutical drug racket busted by the Fatehgarh Sahib district Police in less than three months. Earlier, Fatehgarh Sahib Police had recovered as many as 7 lakh tablets/capsules of Pharma opioids on July 14, 2022, while, 1.17 lakh tablets/capsules of Pharma opioids were recovered on September 4, 2022.

          DIG Gurpreet Bhullar said that following a tip-off Police teams from CIA Sirhind and Police Station Khamano laid a special checking at Khamano and stopped a KIA car bearing registration number HR10AJ9791, which was being driven by accused Ranjit Goswami. During checking of the car, the police teams have recovered a huge quantity of pharma opioids, he said.

          SSP Fatehgarh Sahib Dr Ravjot Grewal said that during preliminary investigations, it has come to light that the arrested accused is into the transport business in Delhi and Amritsar. The accused has confessed that he has been supplying pharma opioids in Punjab for the last few years and most of his customers are in Moga and Ludhiana, she said.

          She said that the police have procured three days police remand of the accused person after producing him in the court and further investigations are on.

          Meanwhile, FIR No 131 has been registered under section 22(c) of the NDPS Act at Police Station Fatehgarh Sahib.

Chandigarh October 01, The Vigilance Bureau Punjab on Saturday has arrested two accused ladies who were proclaimed offenders (PO) and wanted in a forgery case registered by the Bureau the year 2017.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the state Vigilance Bureau (VB) said the duo accused Anita and Ambika, both resident of Sultanpur Lodhi, district Kapurthala were declared POs in January 2021 in a case already registered under FIR No 05 dated 09.03.2017 under section 409, 420, 467, 468, 471, 120-B of IPC and 13(1), 13(2) Prevention of Corruption Act at VB police station Jalandhar.

He informed that the above accused ladies are wife and mother of  accused Tilak Raj, ex councilor, from Sultanpur Lodhi who had already been arrested in this case on 05-02-2018.

Giving more details he informed that the above mentioned accused ladies have connived with officials of State Bank of India (SBI) branch Sultanpur Lodhi and revenue department to get loan amounting to Rs 20 lakhs and Rs 28 lakhs respectively on forged and fabricated documents. Both of them were absconding since 28-08-2018 after dismissal of their bail from the High Court.

The spokesperson further added that this case was registerd regarding on the basis of Vigilance Enquiry No 12/2013 in which total 107 cases pertaining to agricultural loans from SBI were sanctioned by the then accused Manager Sulinder Singh and others from the period May 2013 to April 2016 on the basis of forged and fabricated documents leading to embezzlement of Rs 15 crore 83 lakhs.

He added that the VB during the first phase investigated 14 loan cases and total no 

Says elderly people can gather there & hold discussions

Old-age homes to come up in 10 districts, construction in Mansa and Barnala at last stage: Cabinet Minister

Ludhiana/Chandigarh, October 1-

Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur on Friday advocated the need of teaching the children to have respect for the elders, in the schools.

Dr Baljit Kaur, who was presiding over state-level function to celebrate International Elderly Day at Guru Nanak Bhawan, said that awareness must be created among school students on how to honour and respect the elders in the families besides parents must also impart social and family values to them so that they could spend quality time with the elders in families which was now invisible. She said that loneliness was considered a silent killer of the elderly and this must be eliminated promptly by bridging the gap between young and elderly people. She said that elders had the treasure of experiences and if the children will live with them, they will be able to have knowledge of culture, good qualities and habits and other social issues.

The Minister said that the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government had been taking every possible step for the welfare of elderly and added the concept of ‘Pind di Satth’ will be replicated in the urban areas also so that elderly people can gather there and hold discussions daily to overcome ‘isolation’.

Kaur said that Mansa and Barnala districts will have new old-age homes as soon as the construction work has already been started. Besides, 10 districts will also get new buildings for old-age homes in the state for which the budget has also been approved. She said that the government was committed to provide a better life of elderly people in the state and added the old-age pension system has been completely made effective and transparent.

Meanwhile Director Madhavi Kataria said that to address the grievances of the elderly at a faster pace, the government had launched a toll-free helpline number 14567 for them and ensured quick services and facilities to the elderly by serving them through the helpline. She also urged them to avail maximum benefit of the helpline whenever they face any difficulty in life.

Earlier upon her arrival in Ludhiana for the first time, the Cabinet Minister was also accorded guard of honour by the Commissionerate Police.

Prominent among present on the occasion included MLA Hardeep Singh Mundian, AAP district president Harbhupinder Singh Dharaur, senior AAP leader Master Hari Singh, DC Surabhi Malik, CP Dr Kaustubh Sharma, ADC (Rural Development) Amit Kumar Panchal and others.

Reviews functioning of various branches & sections of PR Dept.

Chandigarh, October 1, Punjab Information and Public Relations Principal Secretary Mr Rahul Bhandari on Saturday laid emphasis on maximum utilisation of available resources, especially, social media, to inform people about various pro-people schemes being run by the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann led Punjab government.

Chairing his maiden meeting with the department officials at Punjab Bhawan here, the Principal Secretary asked the concerned officials to work enthusiastically to inform people about the flagship and public welfare schemes launched by Punjab Government. Only through proper awareness, people will be able to derive maximum benefits of those schemes. He also stressed on the need to further strengthen the feedback mechanism.

Emphasising on the important role social media can play in good governance, he said that social media has emerged as the main source of information and it could be used to sensitise people.

He reviewed the working of various branches and sections of the department including Press Section, Social Media, Advertisement Branch, Clippings, Establishment, Right to Information (RTI), Production, Song and Drama etc.

Principal Secretary Mr. Rahul Bhandari said that all the announcements made by the Chief Minister or other Ministers, the welfare schemes, pro-people initiatives and other government orders should be posted on the social media handles of the government at the earliest so that it could reach to the public timely.

Joint Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister-cum-Additional Director PR Mr Sandeep Singh Garha apprised the Principal Secretary that all the information regarding the government announcements, orders and the welfare schemes is being disseminated to the public using different media platforms, besides ensuring social media coverage of the government achievements and initiatives.

Additional Director Dr. Opinder Singh Lamba, Joint Directors Mr Randeep Singh Ahluwalia and Harjit Singh Grewal, Deputy Directors Mr. Ishwinder Singh Grewal, Ms Shikha Nehra and Mr. Manvinder Singh were among the other officials who attended the meeting.

Punjab Govt committed to provide every required facility in grain markets to farmers: Aman Arora

Chandigarh/ Sunam Udham Singh Wala, October 1, Information & Public Relations, New & Renewable Energy Sources and Housing & Urban Development Minister Mr. Aman Arora, on Saturday, formally inaugurated the paddy procurement in Sangrur district from the new grain market of Sunam Udham Singh Wala.

On this occasion, the Cabinet Minister said that the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was committed to provide every required facility in the grain markets to the farmers. He assured the farmers that they will not be facing any problem in the markets during the current paddy season. He also kick started the bidding of paddy crop brought by farmer Sukhjinder Singh, a resident of Model Town, following which the crop was purchased on the spot.

While addressing a gathering of farmers and commission agents, the cabinet minister said that flying squads have been deployed to monitor the arrival of paddy in the markets and on the entry points of the district to prevent any kind of bogus or illegal procurement during the season. Mr Arora said that the Punjab government was committed to ensure hassle-free procurement and lifting of paddy grain.

He said that the district administration officials have given clear guidelines to remain active regarding paddy procurement activities including lifting, availability of gunny bags, transportation, labor, electricity, potable water and toilet facility.

The cabinet minister said that all grain markets were being monitored by sub-divisional magistrates and all the government procurement agencies have been ordered to strictly follow the instructions of the government.

On this occasion, president Arhtiya Association Amrik Singh Dhaliwal, Mukesh Juneja, SDM Jaspreet Singh, DFSC Narinder Singh, Madan Gopal, Tarsem Tolawalia, Harmesh Nagra, Sethi Kularan, Manpreet Bansal along with a large number of farmers, arhtiyas, palledars were also present.

INSTRUCTED TO TAKE STRICT ACTION AGAINST THOSE FOUND GUILTY WITHOUT ANY PRESSURE

SAS Nagar/Chandigarh, September 29, Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Labour, Investment Promotion and Grievance Redressal Minister Anmol Gagan Mann today addressed the top police officials of the district at Mohali to root out drugs and take strict action against those responsible for drugs. A special meeting was held with the SSP, SPs, DSPs and SHOs of the area and orders were given to take all possible action to eradicate drugs. She instructed to take strict action against those found guilty without any pressure.

          The cabinet minister said that the Punjab government led by Chief Minister S.Bhagwant Singh Maan is committed to provide a drug-free, corruption-free and clean administration to the people of the state. Addressing the police at Mohali today, the minister said that due to the ill effects of drugs in our society, the future of drug addicts is going dark. She said that a person addicted to drugs becomes economically weak, but also physically weak. She said that the youth who is addicted to drugs does not think about the country or even about himself and his family, instead of getting rid of drugs, he forces his entire family to suffer hell.

          She emphasized on intensifying the campaign started by the police administration for the elimination of drugs and said that the police can play a major role in this campaign to eliminate drugs from the state in all circumstances. On this occasion, she instructed the police to take strict action against those who spread drugs. She said that the Punjab government is working on zero tolerance against drug addiction.

On this occasion, Senior Superintendent Police Mr. Vivek Sheel Soni said that the government is continuously working to eradicate drugs in all conditions. He strictly instructed the police officers to take strict action against those who deal in drugs and spread drugs. He said that if there is any negligence on the part of any police officer in preventing drugs, then that employee will also be dealt strongly.

          The Cabinet Minister appealed to the people to unite and cooperate with the police and the administration to eradicate drugs so that the youth can stay away from the ill effects of drugs and create a good society.

          On this occasion SP(R) Navreet Singh Virak, SP Investigation Amandeep Brar, DSP Kharar-2 Dharamveer Singh, DSP Kharar-1 Rupinder Kaur Sohi and other chief officers of police stations. were present

ASKS; STATE TASK FORCE TO BRING ALL LINE DEPARTMENTS TO WORK IN SYNERGY

Chandigarh, September 29, To control the spread of the Vector Borne Diseases  post heavy rainfall in Punjab, the STF meeting was held under the chair of the Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Mr. Chetan Singh Jauramajra . The Health Minister reviewed the activities being carried out by various departments to deal with the growing threat of dengue and instructed the departments to make collaborated efforts to control dengue and malaria and chickengunya to safeguard the health of the people of the state. He also directed the officers of Local bodies Department and Punjab State Rural Development to further strengthen the activities to be done to control dengue and malaria.

          Divulging important information, Mr. Chetan Singh Jauramajra said that that Dengue is a notifiable disease in Punjab and the department has fixed the price of dengue test in private hospitals and laboratories at Rs. 600 across the state, so that people can avail this service at reasonable rates. 2113 confirmed cases have been reported till 29/9/2022 and major districts reporting Dengue cases are Rupnagar (390), SAS Nagar (436), Fatehgarh Sahib (206), Ferozepur (150) and SBS Nagar (153).

          Regarding the preparedness of the Health department to combat dengue Mr. Jauramajra stated that 1274 dengue beds have been dedicated for dengue wards in the government hospitals for management of dengue cases. 42 Sentinel surveillance hospitals have been established for free dengue diagnosis in the State. He informed that 855 breeding checkers have been hired in all 23 districts for checking of larva of Aedes mosquito in urban as well as rural areas.

          The health minister directed the Local bodies department to carry out fogging in the cities and towns at regular intervals. He further said that most of the dengue cases have been reported in 4 districts in the state and the situation is under control in the rest of the state. Similarly, very few cases of malaria and chikungunya have been reported. He urged the people to not let water stagnate in their homes and around to prevent mosquito breeding. He also asked people to immediately visit government hospitals in case of any symptoms and get tested for dengue and malaria. These tests are available free of cost at government hospitals.

          Disclosing further, the minister said that a special awareness campaign involving children shall be started by education department.  For this, special camps must be organized in the schools to educate them on preventive steps to ward off various vector borne diseases. He ordered the officials of the Health Department to involve NGOs in the awareness campaign.

          The Health Minister directed the officers of the Water Supply and Sanitation Department to immediately rectify the malfunctioning water sewage system anywhere in the state. So that outbreaks of water borne diseases can be prevented.

          On the occasion, the Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Ajoy Sharma apprised the Minister regarding the preventive measures concerning dengue and directed the officers of the department to mount a sustained campaign to combat dengue, malaria and Chikungunya besides constituting whatsapp Groups of the concerned Nodal Officers to keep track of the progress.

          On this occasion a comprehensive presentation has been given by Programme officer, Dr. Arshdeep Kaur about these diseases, in which facts of recent years analysed thoroughly.

          Among others present included Chairman Punjab Health System Corporation Raman Behal, Secretary Health and Family Welfare Ajoy Sharma, Secretary Medical Education and Research Alaknanda Dayal, Mission Director NHM Abhinav Trikha, MD, PHSC Neelima, Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Ranjit Singh Ghotra, Director Health Services (Family Welfare) Dr. Ravinder Pal Kaur, Senior Regional Director Dr. Amarjit Kaur, Program Officer NVBDCP Dr. Arshdeep Kaur, and the officers from the Rural Development and Panchayats, State Transport, Medical Education and Research, School Education, Labour, Water Supply & Sanitation and Indian Medical Association representatives.

A HUGE INCREASE IN THE ARRIVAL OF TOURISTS FROM THE COUNTRY AND ABROAD IS EXPECTED

Chandigarh, September 27, The Punjab government led by Chief Minister S.Bhagwant Singh Mann is continuously striving to provide maximum facilities to the tourists from the country and abroad to show the buildings and museums that show the history and heritage of Punjab with the aim of increasing tourism in the state. A special seminar was organized today in Chandigarh on the occasion of World Tourism Day. Cabinet Minister Anmol Gagan Mann participated as the chief guest. On this occasion, the Cabinet Minister launched the e-booking facility for Virasat-e-Khalsa and Dastan-e-Shahadat.

          Speaking on the occasion of World Tourism Day, Punjab Minister for Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Labour, Investment Promotion and Grievance Redressal, Ms Anmol Gagan Mann said that the important role played by tourism in enhancing socio-culture, generating employment and driving the country's economy. Today is widely celebrated as World Tourism Day across the world to highlight the role played by the country.

          The Minister said that Virasat-e-Khalsa museum located at Anandpur Sahib showcases the rich heritage of history and culture of Punjab to inspire the visitors with the eternal messages of the great Gurus and vision of the Gurus for the entire humanity. She said that Virasat-e-Khalsa has become a distinct identity not only in the country but in the whole world. She said that the museum located in Chamkaur Sahib is a "Dastan-e-Shahadat Theme Park" which depicts the sacrifices made by Punjab Sikhs. On this occasion, the Minister emphasized the use of modern technology to share the history and heritage of Punjab with the tourists of the country and abroad to the officials of the Department of Tourism and Culture.

          Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture Department, Mr. Tejveez Singh, Director of Tourism and Culture Department, Mr. Karnesh Sharma, besides eminent dignitaries associated with the tourism industry were especially present in the seminar.

Chandigarh, September 26 (Shivam Madaan) In a significant decision, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday gave nod to amend section 2(g) of Punjab Village Common Lands (Regulation) Act 1961 thereby giving the exclusive ownership of Jumla Mustarka Malkan Land (common village land) to gram panchayat.

 A decision to this was taken by the council of Ministers in its meeting chaired by the Chief Minister here at his official residence.

 Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that with this amendment the Gram Panchayat will be the exclusive owner of the Jumla Mustarka Malkan Land (common village land). As per this amendement insertion in Section 2(g) has been made according to which land reserved for the common purposes of a village, under section 18 of the East Punjab Holdings (Consolidation and Prevention of Fragmentation) Act, 1948 (East Punjab Act 50 of 1948), the management and control whereof vests in the Gram Panchayat under section 23-A of the aforesaid Act. Lands entered in the column of ownership Of

record of rights as Jumla Malkan Wa Digar Haqdaran Arazi Hassab Rasad", "Jumla Malkan" or "Mushtarka Malkan" shall be shamilat deh within the meaning of this section.

ROLLS OUT INCENTIVES PADDY STRAW BASED STANDALONE BIO-FUEL UNITS BY AMENDING INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT POLICY, 2017 & DETAILED SCHEMES AND OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES 2018 FOR BIO- FUEL  PROJECTS

In order to check the menace of paddy straw burning by its effective management, the Cabinet also approved the amendment in the Industrial and Business Development Policy, 2017 and Detailed Schemes and Operational Guidelines 2018 for Bio- Fuel projects by extending the incentives to the standalone Bio-Fuel units provided, they install Boilers based on Paddy Straw as fuel. In order to promote the production and supply of Ethanol for Ethanol Blended Petrol Program and to attract investments in the state for manufacturing of Bio-fuel, the Cabinet approved this amendment for the standalone Bio-Fuel units provided they install Boilers based on Paddy Straw as fuel. Since, the technology for use of Boilers based on Paddy Straw is still evolving, so in such cases where the units are not able to install Boilers based on Paddy Straw as Fuel, the quantum of incentive shall be reduced by 50%.

GIVES GREEN SIGNAL TO AMENDMENTS IN TELECOM INFRASTRUCTURE GUIDELINES 2020 FOR PAVING WAY TO 5G NETWORK IN STATE

The Cabinet also approved amendments in Telecom Infrastructure Guidelines 2020 in line with the Amendment in Rules 2021 of Indian Telegraph Right of Way Rules 2016, for setting up of Over Ground Telecommunication Infrastructure including setting up of Small Cells on Street Furniture in the State of Punjab, and Guidelines Regularization Towers 2022. This will allow provision for usage of Street furniture for installation of new generation Small Cells to enable deployment of 5G/4G (Digital Infrastructure) roll out and for setting up Over the Ground Telecommunication thereby improving the means of communications and immensely benefitting the people of state.

GIVES GO AHEAD FOR AMENDING PUNJAB GOODS AND SERVICES TAX ACT, 2017

The Cabinet also gave a go ahead to amend the Punjab Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 for enabling ease of doing business in the state and facilitating the taxpayers. This amendment will also help in streamlining provisions relating to refund and rationalizing those related to furnishing of return. This will also ensure levying of interest only on input tax credit wrongly availed and utilized. 

NOD TO WITHDRAW PROPOSAL FOR SETTING UP BULK DRUG PARK AT BATHINDA

The Cabinet also gave green signal to withdraw the proposal for setting up of Bulk Drug Park at Bathinda over the site of Thermal Plant, as this land can be judiciously utilized for citizen Centric Projects like Housing/ Modern Residential Complex/ Hotel/ Commercial projects and other projects like Plastic Park, Solar Power and others. Pertinently, the Punjab Government had submitted a proposal for setting up of Bulk Drug Park at Bathinda (at the site of Thermal Plant, Bathinda) in the month of October 2020 under the scheme of setting up of Bulk Drug Park in the Country. However, even after more than one and a half year the project is still hanging in the fire and waiting for the approval by Government of India (GoI).

APPROVAL TO AMEND APPENDIX-D OF PUNJAB EXCISE AND TAXATION COMMISSIONER DEPARTMENT (GROUP-A) SERVICES, RULES, 2014

The Cabinet also gave nod to amend Appendix-D of Punjab Excise and Taxation Commissioner Department (Group-A) Services, Rules, 2014 by reducing the existing departmental exams from existing seven to five.

GREEN SIGNAL TO ANNUAL ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT OF HOSPITALITY DEPARTMENT

The Cabinet also gave its approval to the Annual Administrative Report of the Department of Hospitality, Punjab, Chandigarh for the year 2021-22.

WAR AGAINST GANGSTERS WAGED BY PUNJAB POLICE ON DIRECTIONS OF CHIEF MINISTER BHAGWANT MANN WILL CONTINUE TILL PUNJAB EMERGES AS GANGSTER-FREE STATE: DGP PUNJAB

— CANADA-BASED LANDA AND PAK-BASED RINDA BACKED TERROR PLOT WAS AIMED AT DESTABILISING PEACE AND PROGRESS OF STATE, SAYS DGP GAURAV YADAV

CHANDIGARH/JALANDHAR, September 23:

As part of the ongoing drive launched by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to make Punjab a crime-free state, Punjab Police has busted an ISI-backed terror module jointly handled by Canada-based gangster Lakhbir Singh alias Landa and Pakistan-based Gangster Harvinder Singh Rinda with the arrest of its two operatives, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Friday.

Pertinently, Canada-based Landa is considered to be the close aide of Pakistan-based wanted gangster Harvinder Singh alias Rinda, who had joined hands with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and they have close ties with the ISI.  Landa had played a key role in conspiring the Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) terror attack at Punjab Police Intelligence Headquarters in Mohali and had also planted an IED beneath Sub-Inspector Dilbag Singh’s car in Amritsar.

Those arrested have been identified as Baljit Singh Malhi (25) of village Jogewal in Ferozepur and Gurbaksh Singh alias Gora Sandhu of village Buh Gujran in Ferozepur.

Divulging more details, DGP Gaurav Yadav said that in an intelligence-led operation by AIG Counter Intelligence Jalandhar Navjot Singh Mahal, the police teams have managed to arrest both the accused persons. The police have also recovered one sophisticated AK-56 assault rifle along with two magazines, 90 live cartridges and two bullet shells from a location pinpointed by Gurbaksh Singh at his village, he added.

He said that the preliminary investigations revealed that Baljit was in touch with Italy-based Harpreet Singh alias Happy Sanghera, and on latter's directions Baljit had picked consignment of weapons from a pinpointed spot at Makhu-Lohian road near the sanctuary in village Sudan in July 2022. Later, they concealed the consignment at fields owned by Gurbaksh in his village after conducting test fires, he added.

He said that it has also been ascertained that Baljit was in direct contact with dreaded gangsters including Canada-based Lakhbir Landa and Arsh Dalla. Further investigations are on and more recoveries of weapons are expected soon, he added.

The DGP said that the war against gangsters waged by Punjab Police on directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will continue till Punjab emerges as a Gangster-free state.

Meanwhile, an FIR No. 29, dated 22.09.2022 has been registered under sections 10, 13, 18 and 20 of the UA(P) Act and section 25 of the Arms Act at SSOC Amritsar.

DEDICATED REGULARIZATION PORTAL REVAMPED TO ENSURE QUICK & TIMELY DISPOSAL OF APPLICATIONS

FIXES DEADLINE OF MAXIMUM 21 WORKING DAYS TO COMPLETE WHOLE PROCESS TO ISSUE NOC

Chandigarh, September 10 (Shivam Madaan) In a bid to ensure quick and timely disposal of applications for regularization of properties situated in unauthorized colonies in the state, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann led Punjab Government has introduced a facility of online submission and processing of applications on the regularization portal for obtaining NoC. The state government has also fixed a deadline of maximum 21 working days to complete the whole process to issue the NoC. 

          Revealing this, Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Mr. Aman Arora made it clear that this facility of regularization could be availed only by those allottees/residents whose properties fall under the unauthorized colonies developed before March 19, 2018.

          Mr. Aman Arora said that the person concerned can now log on to www.punjabregularization.in portal dedicated to regularization of plots and buildings situated in unauthorised colonies, which will be processed online. Till now, the applications were processed offline so the applicants had to wait a long for getting issued the NoC.

          Due to ignorance, a considerable number of people had purchased properties in unauthorised colonies which had mushroomed in the past few years. These allottees/residents had invested their hard earned money to purchase plots or other establishments in these colonies, the Minister added.

          To give a reprieve to them the regularization portal has been revamped, said the Cabinet Minister, while adding that new features have been added on the portal to facilitate the allottees/residents of unauthorized colonies interested in applying for regularization of their property. Now, the portal extends a large number of facilities such as online submission of application, online payment, status checking of application and online disposal of the same. This one single portal is designed for regularization of plots and buildings falling within MC and outside MC area for quick disposal of applications, he added.

          To ensure quick and timely disposal of applications, the Housing and Urban Development Minister further stated that the officials involved in the process of dealing the applications would be required to take action in a fixed timeline which will be monitored. The whole process to issue the NoC would be completed maximum within 21 working days from the submission of the application on the portal, he said.

          Notably, Punjab Government had notified a policy on 18.10.2018 to regularize plots falling in unauthorized colonies developed before 19.03.2018. However, plot holders are facing issues for getting their plots regularized under this policy, since applications were processed offline.

AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal to visit his birthplace Hisar, Haryana tomorrow to commence the nationwide Make India No 1 campaign

We all have to come together to Make India No 1; we have to form an alliance of 130 crore Indians, I will embark on a nation-wide journey to fulfil this cause: Arvind Kejriwal

Anyone can join the Make India No 1 initiative by leaving a missed call on 9510001000: Arvind Kejriwal

To Make India No 1 we will have to give excellent education free-of-cost to every child of the nation and build world-class schools all over India: Arvind Kejriwal

The cause of transforming schools should have begun 75 years ago; we may have lost time, but we’ve finally started it now; once India joins hands for this cause, no one will be able to stop us: Arvind Kejriwal

Our country wouldn’t have lagged behind had we built excellent schools right from the time of independence and given the best possible quality of education to each child: Arvind Kejriwal

All 130 crore Indians will have to persevere like a family, India will become No 1 only through hardwork and dedication: Arvind Kejriwal

The Prime Minister has announced the ‘modernisation’ of 14,500 government schools; I fail to understand how such a small measure will be of any help in a country with 10.50 lac government schools: Arvind Kejriwal

If we modernise 14,500 schools every year it will take 7-80 years to fix 10.50 lac schools: Arvind Kejriwal

Appeal to the Prime Minister — please make a cohesive plan with all state governments over education; if we have to progress we need to transform all the 10.50 lac government schools within the next 5 years: Arvind Kejriwal

There is not even a single country which has become a developed country without providing quality education to the children of their country: Arvind Kejriwal

Chandigarh/NEW DELHI (Madaan) AAP National Convenor and Delhi CM Shri Arvind Kejriwal has resolved to bring 130 crores Indians together for his path-breaking project, the Make India No 1 campaign. The AAP Convenor will now be aggressively pumping fuel into the initiative, going across the country, forming an alliance of citizens all over India. Shri Arvind Kejriwal will commence the Make India No 1 campaign from his birthplace Hisar, Haryana tomorrow. 

Shri Arvind Kejriwal said, “We all have to come together to Make India No 1; we have to form an alliance of 130 crore Indians. I will embark on a nation-wide journey to fulfil this cause. Anyone can join the Make India No 1 initiative by leaving a missed call on 9510001000. To Make India No 1 we will have to give excellent education free-of-cost to every child of the nation and build world-class schools all over India. The cause of transforming schools should have begun 75 years ago; we may have lost time, but we’ve finally started it now; once India joins hands for this cause, no one will be able to stop us. Our country wouldn’t have lagged behind had we built excellent schools right from the time of independence and given the best possible quality of education to each child. All 130 crore Indians will have to persevere like a family, India will become No 1 only through hardwork and dedication. The Prime Minister has announced the ‘modernisation’ of 14,500 government schools; I fail to understand how such a small measure will be of any help in a country with 10.50 lac government schools. If we modernise 14,500 schools every year it will take 7-80 years to fix 10.50 lac schools. I appeal to the Prime Minister — please make a cohesive plan with all state governments over education; if we have to progress we need to transform all the 10.50 lac government schools within the next 5 years.”

There is not a single country in the world which has become a developed country without providing quality education to the children of their country: Arvind Kejriwal

AAP National Convenor and Delhi CM Shri Arvind Kejriwal announced his vision for the Make India No 1 campaign today. He resounded faith in the potential of the country and its people who can touch the sky & lead India to a global success. He said, "We launched a campaign a few days ago called Make India No. 1. It is the dream of 130 crores Indians that India becomes the best country in the world. They are asking a question that we became Independent 75 years ago and yet India is still lagging behind. A lot of countries overtook us. Today, when India is labelled as a poor and a backward country, it pains our hearts. 130 crores Indians want to see India becoming a developed country. India should be a rich and prosperous country. India should be the most powerful country in the world." 

He gave an example of how a person can pursue massive endeavours by remaining attached to his roots as he selected his birthplace as the starting point of his revolutionary journey. He continued, "In the past 75 years, India could not progress because of these political parties and politicians. And if we leave the control of the country with them, India will remain a backward country for another 75 years. 130 Indians have to come together to form an alliance. We have to work hard like a team, like a family. If 130 Indians will come together, no force can stop India from becoming the no.1 country in the world. In order to make this dream a reality, I announced that I will be touring the entire country. I will visit all the states, interact with people from all walks of life and work towards making them join this movement. I will be starting my tour tomorrow. The first place I will be visiting is my birthplace which is Hisar in Haryana. I was born in a village called Siwani which is near Hisar. I will kickstart this pious journey from my native place. Afterwards, I will visit other states and try to make people join this movement."

While giving the details of the method to join the mission, he emphasised the revolution in education should be the first-amongst-equals step among the various steps required for the country's development. He added, "Those who want to join the mission Make India No. 1 can do so by giving us a missed call on 9510001000. I have said this multiple times that a lot of work needs to be done to make India the best country in the world but there is a necessary but not sufficient condition. The necessary condition is that until and unless we provide the best possible education to every child in our country, be it from a middle-class or poor family, and that too free-of-cost, the country cannot progress. It should be first-class education, just like the type of education children from rich families get in private schools." 

Invoking the history of Independent India, he said that a golden opportunity was lost by the country which would have otherwise helped in taking an ideal start soon after getting freedom. He said, "Our country got Independence in 1947 and we have made significant progress in various fields but we made a big mistake. The first step which should have been taken after getting freedom was to build excellent government schools in every city, every village and every corner of the country. If we would have done this back then, all the citizens of the country would have been literate by now. Every child would have received quality education and India would have been a poor country. We have wasted 75 years."

He expressed happiness that his succinct efforts have made the transformation of government schools a priority for other governments across the country but he urged to fast track the progress. He added, "Yesterday, the Prime Minister announced that 14 thousand 5 hundred government schools across the country will be modernised. I am happy that he took such a step but it is not at all adequate. What will we achieve by only modernising 14 thousand 5 hundred government schools? There are 10.5 lakh government schools in the entire country. If we will modernise schools at the rate of 14 thousand 5 hundred government schools per year, it will take a good 70-80 years to modernise all the government schools in the country. We do not have that much time on hand. We have already wasted 75 years."

Citing examples of essential practice of developing countries to provide quality education to its children as a matter of priority, he sought cooperation of governments across the country to achieve the target within five years. He concluded, "It is my appeal to the Prime Minister and the Central Government that they should create a plan by collaborating with all the state governments to modernise all the 10.5 lakh government schools at once to make them best quality schools. We should strive to achieve this goal within 5 years. Until the children of our country will not get the best possible education, our country cannot progress. Take an example of any developed nation in the world. Be it Japan, France or any European country, England, the US or Canada. There is not even a single country which has become a developed country without providing quality education to the children of their country. 14 thousand 5 hundred government schools are not even a drop in a vast ocean. There are 10.5 lakh schools and we have to revamp them at once within the next 5 years."

SLAMS THE THEN GOVERNMENT FOR APATHETIC ATTITUDE TOWARDS FLOOD VICTIMS

ASSERTS THAT ANY SORT OF LAXITY IN THIS WORK WILL NOT BE TOLERATED

Chandigarh, September 6 (Shivam Madaan) Giving major relief to flood affected people of Fazilka district, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today ordered immediate release of Rs 32 crore against the compensation pending for the year 2020 due to floods in district of the state.

A decision to this effect was taken by the Chief Minister in a meeting held here at his office with the MLAs of the Fazilka district.  

During the meeting, the Chief Minister bemoaned that it is unfortunate that the flood fury had created whopping loss in the Fazilka district in 2020 but except lip service the then government had done nothing to give relief to people. He said that floods had caused major damage in Abohar, Arniwala and Jalalabad blocks of the district. Bhagwant Mann said that out of total Rs 32 crore, damage worth Rs 28 crore was done to the crops whereas the remaining Rs 4 crore loss was done to the other houses and other establishments.

The Chief Minister said that instead of extending a helping hand to flood effected people the then state government had been dilly delaying the matter to further aggrieve the situation of the people in distress. He asserted that the apathetic attitude of the then government was visible from the fact that not even a single penny was given as compensation to the people. Bhagwant Mann unequivocally said that however the Aam Aadmi government which is concerned for the well being of people will leave no stone unturned for this noble cause.

The Chief Minister immediately ordered the Revenue department to complete the formalities for early disbursement of the compensation to people. He said that the compensation should be distributed to people without any further inordinate delay. Bhagwant Mann categorically said that any sort of laxity in completing this work in a time bound manner will not be tolerated.

Meanwhile, MLAs from Fazilka Narinder Pal Singh, Amandeep Singh and Jagdeep Kamboj thanked the Chief Minister for this decision. They said that Chief Minister had giving a major relief to people of Fazilka for which they will ever remain indebted to him. The MLAs also hailed the pro-people and development oriented initiatives being taken by the Chief Minister.

Emphasizes new initiatives to end hardships of people in meeting of Punjab State Transport Society

Chandigarh, September 1 (Shivam Madaan) Punjab Chief Secretary Vijay Kumar Janjua has directed the Transport Department to start new initiatives to end the miseries of people with emphasis to work towards making road traffic safest.

Presiding over the meeting of Punjab State Transport Society here today, Mr. Janjua said that it is Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s firm commitment to provide safe, better civic services to the residents of the state in a transparent and easy manner. Besides technology based services are being given priority by the State Government. The Transport department must ensure checking of overloading vehicles. Similarly, the printing of the issued driving license and registration certificate should be improved, said the Chief Secretary.

The Chief Secretary said that the regional driving training centers being set up at Malerkotla, Batala and Kapurthala should be started within the stipulated time so that the residents of Majha, Malwa and Doaba will get services in their respective areas.

He further said that e-Challaning system is being started for online challan payment on the spot for transparency and saving people's time. Reducing the hassle of new learning license aspirants, it is being completely online. He further said the department should take necessary action for the transport bhawan to be built at Chandigarh and if any problem arises then also explore the possibility of building it at Mohali.

Mr. Janjua said that recently, in a step aimed at checking environmental pollution in state, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann gave nod to draft of new Electric Vehicle policy for the state which envisages registration of 25% more electric vehicles as compared to last year. The Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had also asserted that as per the new draft policy major thrust will be laid on cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Patiala and Bathinda that cater to more than 50% vehicles in the state.

In the meeting, Secretary Transport Vikas Garg informed that 32 automated driving test tracks are running successfully in the state in which 17,36,163 driving tests were taken during the last six years. Similarly, Vahan 4.0 and Sarathi 4.0 web application are being run successfully by the transport department. As many as 55 smart online services are being provided by the department at 516 Seva Kenders. Similarly, for the registration of vehicles, the dealer does not need to deposit the form physically with the authority.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Governance Reforms Tejveer Singh, State Transport Commissioner Vimal Setia, Special Secretary Finance Mohammad Tayyab, Deputy Commissioner Ludhiana Surabhi Malik and Deputy Commissioner Mohali Amit Talwar.

Praful Chander Nagpal

Fazilka, August 17

“Doctors at the Civil Hospital and those of two local private hospitals refused to treat my pregnant wife Kajal Rani for want of blood. Kajal was shifted to Abohar where she delivered a child,” said Sunny Kumar, a resident of local College Road Colony. He said they suffered a lot for want of blood.

“I had to travel to blood bank at Abohar for a unit of blood. I reached there at 9 am and could return only at 8 pm. My pregnant sister Kirna Rani’s life was at risk. Thereafter, her caesarean delivery was conducted in the midnight three days ago,” rued one Gurjeet Singh, a resident of Kabulshah village.

Not only Kajal Rani and Kirna Rani, but large number of pregnant women, emergency, accident victims and particularly thalassemia patients are at the receiving end as the premier blood bank of the state situated in the local district hospital has been shut for want of Blood Transfusion Officer for last two weeks.

The collection and distribution of thousands of units of blood has come to a standstill. The bank has been rated among the first five top blood banks of the state since 2018.

In the present situation, 33 children suffering from thalassemia and their parents in Fazilka are shaken and desperate lot.

The needy patients of Fazilka and Jalalabad have to rush to the Civil Hospital in Abohar, which is at a distance of 35 to 160 km, for procuring blood, a cumbersome process in emergency cases.

The information gathered by The Tribune reveals that Fazilka blood bank supplies 500 to 600 units of blood every month to the needy patients of Fazilka and Jalalabad.

A leading blood donor NGO, Shri Ram Kirpa Sewa Sangh Welfare Society, which has secured seven state awards, has been instrumental in collecting 45,000 units of blood for the Fazilka blood bank since 2018.

Rajeev Kukreja, blood donation campaign in-charge of society, has demanded a permanent post of the BTO in Fazilka to prevent any loss of life.

After much hue and cry, Fazilka Civil Surgeon ordered to appoint a Blood Transfusion Officer from Abohar on deputation for three days — Wednesday, Thursday and Friday — but how the blood bank would run without a valid licence is yet to be known.

Officer to be posted in Fazilka soon

We are seized of the issue. A Blood Transfusion Officer will be posted at Fazilka soon. Health Minister’s PA

CM EXHORTS PEOPLE TO WAGE WAR AGAINST SOCIAL MALADIES LIKE UNEMPLOYMENT, CORRUPTION, COMMUNALISM AND OTHERS

UNFURLS THE TRICLOR AT GURU NANAK STADIUM

Ludhiana, August 15, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today  called upon  people to join hands and  wage a war against social maladies like unemployment, corruption, communalism and social discrimination to   realise the dreams of our freedom fighters and make a 'Rangla Punjab '

Addressing a gathering at the state level function to mark Independence Day at Guru Nanak Stadium here today, the Chief Minister said that these maladies are  hampering the progress of the state and prosperity of its people. Unfurling the Tricolour on the occasion, he said that the time has come to weed out these maladies, adding that  this mission cannot be accomplished without the  active support of the people.

The Chief Minister said that it is a matter of great pride and honour for every Indian that our country has completed 75 years as an Independent and democratic Republic today. Congratulating all the countrymen especially Punjabis in India and across the world on this historic occasion,  Bhagwant Mann said that India’s road to independence was long and hard, but equally difficult is the path to maintain this freedom.

The Chief Minister also said that as a colony of British Empire our country had suffered a lot and the brave and determined heroes of our freedom struggle made enormous sacrifices to remove the shackles of foreign imperialism. He said that is on record that more than 80% of the great patriots who laid down their lives or were subjected to British tyranny in one form or other were Punjabis. Bhagwant Mann said that a string of gems like Baba Ram Singh, Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Diwan Singh Kalepani and many others, shed their blood to achieve an independent nation for us.

The Chief Minister said that it is unfortunate if some people are posing questions  over the contribution of great martyrs. He reminded the people that these great national heroes and martyrs relentlessly fought to free the country from the shackles of the British regime. He said questioning the credentials of martyrs is an unpardonable crime.

The Chief Minister asserted that even today Punjabis are at forefront to safeguard the borders of the country. He said that Punjabis led the nation from the front whenever India faced any challenge from internal or external aggression. It is a known fact that the hard working and resilient farmers of the state have played a crucial role in making the country self-reliant in food production, Bhagwant Mann added.

The Chief Minister lamented that even 75 years after Independence the dreams of our freedom fighters and great national heroes like Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh and Baba Sahib Dr BR Ambedkar remain unfulfilled. He said that people had high hopes from the many governments that assumed power in the state through the decades after independence, but most served to dash these hopes because corruption, poverty, unemployment and many other ills are still deeply embedded in the state. Bhagwant Mann said that Aam Aadmi government which assumed the charge of office early this year has come like a breath of fresh air into Punjab as it is not only committed to fulfil the aspirations of people of the state, but has pledged to fulfil the dreams of our freedom fighters.

Exhorting all Punjabis to play an active role to once again make Punjab prosperous and a front runner state of the country, the Chief Minister said that the sapling planted by people of state in form of bringing government of Aam Aadmi in assembly elections held early this year, has started bearing fruits now. He said that from now onwards Punjab will daily script a new success story of development and progress. Bhagwant Mann said that new vistas of employment will be generated and the state will soon become a ‘Rangla Punjab’.

The Chief Minister asserted that with the active support and cooperation of our people the state government is working hard to realise the dream of freedom fighters. He expressed hope that Punjab will scale new heights of development and prosperity in the state. On this momentous occasion, Bhagwant Mann urged the people to rededicate themselves to cement the bonds of love, peace and communal harmony enshrined by our great Gurus and saints, and to fulfil the vision of our freedom fighters and national heroes.

The Chief Minister asked the people to remain vigilant of the nefarious designs of some fissiparous forces to destabilise the state. He said that these forces want to derail the peace and progress of state. Bhagwant Mann said that though the land of Punjab is very fertile and anything can be grown on it but seeds of hatred and communalism can never germinate here.

Invoking the bani of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, the Chief Minister urged the people to refrain from the inhuman practice of female foeticide. He said that girls must be given a chance to excel in life. Bhagwant Mann said that girls are today proving their mettle in every field and becoming an equal partner in socio-economic growth of country.

The Chief Minister further said that great Gurus have shown the way to Punjabis to fight against tyranny, injustice and oppression. He said that bani and life of great Guru sahibans have ever inspired the Punjabis to make supreme sacrifices at the altar of motherland. Bhagwant Mann said that we must follow the footsteps of great Gurus, saints and seers to serve the state zealously.

The Chief Minister also said that from day one in office, the state government is making every effort to restore the glory of Punjab. He said that though the path is strewn with thorns but intentions of state government are noble and determined. Bhagwant Mann said that the state government is working closely with the people and in unison with the ideals of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Baba Sahib Dr BR Ambedkar, to achieve these goals.

The Chief Minister asserted that in order to provide quality and timely health services to the people, the state government is dedicating 75 Aam Aadmi clinics to mark 75th Independence Day today. He said that these clinics will offer 41 health packages with nearly 100 clinical tests free of cost to the people. Bhagwant Mann envisaged that these clinics as the cornerstone to revamp of the healthcare system in Punjab.

Likewise, the Chief Minister further said that the state government is committed to rejuvenate Education system in state to reverse the trend of brain drain. He said that towards this end, the state government has adopted a Multi-pronged approach that is aimed at transforming government schools into ‘Schools of Eminence’. Likewise, Bhagwant Mann said 16 new medical colleges will come in the state during coming five years.

The Chief Minister also said that in a path breaking initiative his government provided 600 units of free power per billing cycle to every section of society. He said that as a result of this, 51 lakh households out of total 74 lakh will get zero electricity bill in the month of September. Likewise, Bhagwant Mann said that 68 lakh household will get zero power bill in January, which will be roughly 90% of the total households of the state.    

The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government will not allow the textile park to come up at Mattewara, which are the lungs of Ludhiana. He said that the Punjab government has already offered alternative land sites for the project to Government of India. Bhagwant Mann said that the state government is committed to save the environment of state.

Earlier, the Chief Minister accompanied by Chief Secretary Vijay Kumar Janjua and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, inspected the parade led by parade commander ASP Maninder Singh, IPS. He also took a salute from an impressive march past by 11 contingents of Punjab Police, Punjab Home Guards, Punjab Armed Police, NCC Girls and Boys, Bharat Scouts and Guides besides the Punjab Police Brass band and other school bands. On the occasion, the students of various local schools presented a colorful variety program including Bhangra, Gidha, Group Dance, PT show and group singing.

The Chief Minister also felicitated Freedom fighters and their kin in recognition of their valuable contribution in the freedom struggle of the country.

MLA Savna Lauds the efforts of District Administration for lending ears to remote inhibits

DC Himanshu Agarwal Reiterated Committment to Serve the residents by reaching out to them

On Day-1, Four Villages Covered, Hundreds of Villages Benefitted with Government Schemes

Fazilka, August 13, 2022, To reach out to the residents of 30 remote villages adjacent to India-Pak international border under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Fazilka District Administration has devised a novel way by organising special AABAD camps in these villages.
     Divulging the details after launching the scheme in the name of 'Mission AABAD  30 (Absolute Boarder Area Development)' at Dhandi Kadim, Chak Wajida, Hastan Kalan and Mahatam Nagar villages of Jalalabad and Fazilka assembly segments, Deputy Commissioner Dr Himanshu Aggarwal said that the idea behind the launching of these aabad camps is to provide all the facilities related to comprehensive infrastructure, social and economic development and beneficiary schemes at the doorstep. He said the response was overwhelming on Day-1 hundreds of residents thronged to these camps for getting benefits. he said that such aabad camps will also be organized in all these 30 boarder villages in near future.
     Fazilka MLA Narinderpal Singh Sawna, who joined the camp at village Mahatam Nagar, appreciating the efforts of district administration said that the initiative would bridge the gap between the public and government and be helpful to resolve the problems of border area residents. He said that instead of going to the offices, the administration will be reaching the people in their villages to provide government services. He said that more such camps will be organized in other villages in the coming days.
   Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal added that the services provided in these camps included caste certificate, residence certificate, rural area certificate, border area certificate, pension related facilities, health department related facilities, work related to rural development department and MGNREGA, water supply and sanitation department benefits and Aadhaar card related services.
SSP Bhupinder Singh said that except providing department related services, police personnel also sensitised the youth for recruitment in police. On this occasion, the BSF personnel informed the people of these border villages about the threat perception of drones coming from across the international border and and asked them to report it to the security agencies, and also made aware the youth of these villages about recruitment in the Indian Army and BSF.
    On this occasion, Mrs. Sophia Kamboj appreciated the initiative of the Punjab government and said that it will provide a lot of convenience to the people and their official work will be done in the village itself.
Hundreds of  people were provided government services and certificates on the spot during these camps. On raising demand of sports infrastructure in Dhandi Kadeem village, the Deputy Commissioner immediately ordered the Rural Development Department to develop the sports ground in the village and to provide sports kits to the youth. Similarly, the problem of lack of patwari was also redressed by the deputy commissioner on the spot by ordering the post of patwari was posted in the village.
    Similarly, on receiving the demand for upgrading the school and sports ground in Mahatam Nagar, the village panchayat was asked to submit a resolution.
    Apart from this, the Agriculture Department, Animal Husbandry Department, Fisheries Department, Cooperation Department and the State Rural Livelihood Mission also provided information about various government schemes to the people in these camps.
   Meanwhile, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Harcharan Singh, SDM Amanpal Singh, DDPO Sukhpal Singh were also present on the occasion.

Chandigarh 13 August, On the occasion of the completion of 75 years of Independence today, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Sardar Bhagwant Singh Maan has made free entry tickets to all private and government museums of Punjab for the people today to celebrate the Amrit Mahautsav of Independence with great enthusiasm.

Giving more information, Cabinet Minister Madam Anmol Gagan Maan said that on the occasion of the completion of 75 years of independence by the Punjab government, today is the day for all the people to visit the private and government museums of Punjab to celebrate this day with full enthusiasm and enthusiasm. The entry fee has been made totally free. She appealed to the people to visit any of the private or government museums of Punjab with their families to celebrate the 75th Independence Day with joy and enthusiasm so that we all can get detailed information about the rich heritage and culture of Punjab.

She said that ticket money will not be charged for going to any private or government museums of Punjab today. This entry is totally free.

Housing, Revenue & Local Govt Ministers brainstorm to bring reforms for urban property buyers

Mann Govt to put comprehensive mechanism into place to ensure seamless property registration services in transparent manner

Chandigarh, August 10 (Shivam Madaan) Punjab government coming up with a comprehensive mechanism to ensure planned development in urban areas and make property buying transparent and hassle-free. This was stated by Mr. Aman Arora, Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister after a brainstorming meeting with other ministers.

            He was attending a high-level meeting along with his two cabinet colleagues Mr. Bram Shanker Jimpa, Revenue & Rehabilitation Minister and Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Local Government Minister at Punjab Bhawan here.

            During the meeting, the cabinet ministers meticulously discussed the issues and problems being faced by legitimate/genuine urban property buyers and to sort out property registration related issues so that the people will get property related services in a seamless and transparent manner.

            The Ministers said that all the issues regarding NOC for registration of property will be resolved soon as the Mann Government is not leaving any stone unturned to provide hassle-free services without any bias. The Chief Minister is personally monitoring the issue.

            "Today, I along with my cabinet colleagues brainstormed to resolve the issues pertaining to registration of property and planned development in urban areas. A comprehensive mechanism will be put into place to resolve all the urban property related issues," said Housing and Urban Development Minister.

            Reiterating Punjab government's firm commitment for welfare of Punjab and its people, the cabinet ministers urged the Punjabis to have a little more patience as Mann government is working painstakingly to bring reforms and streamline the system, which was messed up by nefarious policies of the successive governments resulting in undue hassle to the common people. Now, Aam Aadmi Party has come to power to clean and streamline the system for the betterment of state and its people, they added.

            Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister, Punjab Mr. A. Venu Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary-cum-Financial Commissioner, Revenue Mr. Anurag Agarwal, Principal Secretary Local Government Mr. Vivek Pratap Singh and Principal Secretary Housing & Urban Development Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sinha were also present in the meeting. 

• Meeting by the Cabinet Minister with the officials of the Labor Department, instructions given to work with full diligence

• Special camps to be organized at district level to give benefits of various schemes to construction workers: Anmol Gagan Maan

• Said, the punjab government distributed 34 crores under various schemes to the construction workers during the first 4 months

Chandigarh 5, August (HM Digital Desk) Cabinet Minister Ms. Anmol Gagan Maan today held a meeting with various officials of the Labor Department.  This meeting was held at the Labour Bhawan of District SAS Nagar.  During the meeting, the Cabinet Minister reviewed the works of the department in detail.  In this meeting, the officers and inspectors working at the district level informed the Cabinet Minister about the difficulties faced in implementing the labour welfare schemes under the Punjab Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board at the ground level.

Addressing the meeting, Cabinet Minister Madam Anmol Gagan Maan said that this government is committed to the progress of every section of the people.  She said that construction workers are the pillar of our progress.  Therefore, the schemes being run for the welfare of the construction workers should be fully implemented at the ground level.  On this occasion, she said that during the last financial year, benefits of Rs. 35 crore were given to the workers under various schemes for the welfare of the construction workers.  She said that during the first 4 months of this financial year, Rs 34 crore has been disbursed to the construction workers in their bank accounts under their welfare schemes.  Cabinet Minister Madam Maan directed the officials to settle the pending requests of the construction workers in a time-bound manner.  She instructed the officials that while implementing the schemes for the welfare of the construction workers, if there is any negligence on the part of the officials, then it will be dealt with strictly.

She said that camps will be organized at the district level to give the benefits of the board's schemes to the construction workers and to register the workers.  She said that the first district level camp for registration of construction workers will be held at Kharar on 21.08.2022.  She said that a construction worker who has worked as a construction worker for 90 days in 12 months can take advantage of the board's schemes by registering himself.  During the meeting, the officials and inspectors working in the district level offices informed the Cabinet Minister about the problems they were facing, which were assured to be resolved immediately.

 Secretary of Labour Department Mr. Manvesh Singh Sidhu, Labour Commissioner Mr. Arun Sekhari, Additional Labour Commissioner Mrs. Mona Puri and other officials were also present on this occasion.

Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister emphasizes on transparency factor

Reviews working of department in a meeting with DFSCs and Deputy Directors

Chandigarh, August 3, The Punjab Government led by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is duty bound to ensure transparency in every department so as to provide a corruption free administrative framework to the people. As part of this, zero tolerance policy is being adopted towards malpractices as this department is closely linked to the economy of the State. Those indulging in corrupt practices would be sternly dealt with in accordance with the law. These views were expressed by the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak here today at the Anaj Bhawan in Sector - 39 while chairing a review meeting with the District Food Supply Controllers and the Deputy Directors.

On the occasion, the Minister said that the pending issues of the department must be addressed within the time frame so as to not hamper the functioning of the department. He further said that the applications with regard to procuring licence from the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) should be sent within one week. The Minister also directed that the stock in the godowns be thoroughly checked and it is imperative that the items contained in the stock register match with the stock present. He emphasized dispatching reports in a timely manner in this regard. The Minister exhorted the officers present to strengthen the Worker Management Committees in their respective districts so as to redress the issues of the workers thus bringing them into the mainstream. He also said that there should be uniformity in the matter of setting up of clusters in the mandis and no cluster should exceed the capacity of 50000 M.T.

Recovers Rs 21 lakh cash during house search, Court allows 6 days police remand

Chandigarh August 3 :

Aiming to check the menace of corruption in the state the Vigilance Bureau Punjab during its ongoing campaign today arrested a main passer namely Rajinder Singh Sodhi @ Lovely from Ambala, Haryana and recovered a huge cash from his house. He was wanted in a case related to causing a huge loss to the state exchequer for evasion of GST in connivance with excise and taxation officers in the state.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the State Vigilance Bureau (VB) said in this regard a case FIR No. 8. dated 21.08.2020 u/s 420, 465, 467, 468, 471, 120-B, 201 IPC and 7, 7(A) and 8 of Prevention of Corruption Act had already been registered at VB flying squad-1, police station at Mohali.

Giving more details he informed that this case was registered against Punjab GST/Excise & Taxation officials and passers/mediators for being complicit for causing a huge loss to the state exchequer through provision of escape routes to passers for evasion of GST as well as imposing a lesser amount of penalty during checking of vehicles carrying unfinished (Iron scrap) and finished goods, he added.

He informed that during investigation of this case some officers of Excise & Taxation Department and Passers have already been arrested. "These passers/mediators gave hefty bribes on monthly basis to the department officials for this purpose", he said.

The spokesperson further revealed that after the arrest of above said passer Rajinder Singh Sodhi, the VB team made a house search of the accused. During the search the Vigilance team recovered huge cash amounting to Rs. 21,65,241 in the presence of witnesses, which would be further probed during investigation.

He informed that 6 day police remand of the above mentioned accused has been obtained from the competent court by the VB for further investigation in the case.

Supply of potable water to be ensured in villages-Bram Shankar Jimpa

Chandigarh, August 3 : Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab Government has prepared a 'Village Action Plan' to achieve the goal of providing clean and potable water in all the villages of the state during the current financial year. At present, clean drinking water is being provided to every house in 12009 villages of the state. 

During the year 2022-23, the goal of providing piped drinking water to all the villages of the state will be achieved. Punjab Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Mr. Bram Shankar Jimpa informed that water connection to all the household will be provide under the 'Village Action Plan', besides laying of pipes lines in new villages and strengthening of drinking water sources . At present, clean drinking water is being provided to 12009 villages of the state through 9554 water supply schemes. So far, 99 percent of the water supply work has been completed.

Notably, the training of engineers and other staff was carried under the supervision of seniors officers of water supply and sanitation department so that this task could be accomplished within stipulated time .  More than 700 engineers and social field staff have been given training by subject experts under daily monitoring by Sub Divisional Engineer and Executive Engineer. The purpose of this training is to fulfill the goal of the village action plan by conducting a contact campaign by the staff.

Under the Jal Jeevan Mission  all the households and common places in the villages of Punjab tap water is being provided, said the Minister adding that the necessary instruction in this regard to cover each and every household in the rural areas had already been given to the official of the department.