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Punjab

Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Rs. 59.34 crore disbursed to 256 institutions out of Rs. 92 crore: Dr. Baljit Kaur

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Chandigarh, December 7

          To provide financial assistance for the education of Scheduled Caste (SC) students, the Punjab Government has released Rs. 92 crore from the budget provisions for the year 2024-25 under the Post-Matric Scholarship for SC Students scheme. Additionally, Rs. 245 crore has been earmarked for scholarships for the year 2024-25. This announcement was made by Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, during a press conference held today at Punjab Bhawan, Chandigarh.

          Divulging in this regards, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government had released Rs. 366 crore during the financial year 2023-24 to clear dues under the Post-Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Caste Students scheme for the years 2017-18 to 2019-20. Out of this, Rs. 283.62 crore has already been disbursed to 1008 institutions. The Minister also assured that the remaining institutions with pending dues will receive payments soon.

          The Cabinet Minister informed that Rs. 92 crore has been released to clear dues for government institutions and students from Punjab studying in institutions in other states. Out of this amount, Rs. 59.34 crore has already been disbursed to 256 institutions, and efforts are being expedited to distribute the remaining funds to other institutions.

          Additionally, the Cabinet Minister stated that Rs. 229.23 crore was released for students in the financial year 2023-24 and Rs. 245 crore has been earmarked for scholarships for students in the current financial year 2024-25.

          Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that between 2017 to 2020, the funds meant to be disbursed under the scholarship scheme for Scheduled Caste students were neither provided by the Central Government nor paid by the then Congress Government of Punjab. Due to such negligence by previous governments, colleges withheld the degrees of Scheduled Caste students.

          The Cabinet Minister mentioned that since the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann assumed office, it has been making every possible effort to ensure that there is no disruption in the education of Scheduled Caste students.

          She also appealed to the Central Government to release the pending share under the scholarship scheme at the earliest to avoid any hindrance in the education of Scheduled Caste students in Punjab. Furthermore, she informed that for the academic year 2024-25, nearly 2,31,000 students have newly registered under the scholarship scheme.

          The Minister stated that the responsibility of disbursing this amount to various government institutions and ensuring its proper utilization has been entrusted to the administrative department. This department will be accountable for the appropriate use of the funds. 

          The Cabinet Minister further emphasized that the Punjab Government is committed to the welfare and rights of Scheduled Caste students. Under this scheme, financial assistance for their education will be provided in a timely manner, ensuring continuity in their studies. This amount will serve as a significant support for their education.

          The Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities stated that education is the most powerful tool for social transformation. She emphasized that the Punjab Government will ensure that no student is forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints. She added that the Punjab Government,  is fully committed to the welfare of Scheduled Caste students. 

          The Cabinet Minister further said that the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is not only dedicated to safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Caste students but is also actively working to turn this commitment into reality. She highlighted that the funds disbursed under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme will encourage students to pursue their education with interest and help them overcome financial challenges.

          The minister stated that the government is planning to launch several schemes not only to provide financial assistance but also to support the overall development of Scheduled Caste students. These efforts will not only aid students in the field of education but also help create employment opportunities, serving as a significant step toward turning their dreams into reality.

          Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government is taking several significant steps under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme to promote the education of Scheduled Caste students. 

          On this occasion, the Director of the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities, Mr. Sandeep Hans and Deputy Director, Mr. Ravinderpal Singh Sandhu were also present.

Punjab

PUNJAB TO INSTALL 2356 AGRI SOLAR PUMPS WITHIN 4 MONTHS

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Chandigarh, December 7

          To harness the solar energy for greening the agriculture sector in the state, the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) will install 2,356 solar pumps dedicated to agricultural purposes.

          Punjab’s New and Renewable Energy Sources Minister, Mr. Aman Arora, handed over work orders to M/s. AVI Appliances Pvt. Ltd., M/s. PV Power Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and M/s. Himalayan Solar Pvt. Ltd. for the installation of 2,356 solar pumps for agricultural use in the state.

          Mr. Aman Arora informed that these companies were selected through a transparent and competitive bidding process. The installation of these pumps is expected to be completed within four months. A subsidy of 60% for general category farmers and 80% for the Scheduled Caste (SC) farmers is available for the solar pumps with capacities of 3, 5, 7.5, and 10 HP.

          In dark zones (over-exploited groundwater blocks), these pumps will be installed to farmers who already have micro irrigation systems, such as drip or sprinkler systems, installed on their bore-wells, he added.

          With the installation of these solar pumps, he said while adding that the farmers will no longer need to go to their farms at night for irrigation, as these pumps operate during the daytime. This will not only reduce fuel costs but also result in zero percent carbon emissions, promoting a more sustainable farming practice.

          Mr. Aman Arora also directed the PEDA officials to initiate dedicated efforts towards the installation of more agriculture solar pumps for the welfare of the farmers.

          Chief Executive Officer PEDA Mr. Sandeep Hans, Director Mr. M.P. Singh and representatives of all the respective companies were also present on the occasion.

Punjab

Dr. Ravjot Singh Distributes Appointment Letters to 85 Individuals under Mission Rozgar

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Chandigarh/Amritsar, December 7

          Under the Mission Rozgar launched by Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, today, the Punjab Minister for Local Government, Dr. Ravjot Singh, handed over appointment letters to 85 individuals at the Municipal Corporation office. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ravjot Singh expressed that the Punjab Government is committed to providing more employment opportunities for the youth. He highlighted that during the tenure of the current government, nearly 51,000 individuals have been provided with government jobs.

          Dr. Ravjot Singh, while handing over the appointment letters, urged the newly appointed employees to recognize their vital role in the social and economic development of Punjab. He emphasized that continuous hard work and dedication are essential to achieving success and attaining one’s life goals. He encouraged them to perform their duties with sincerity and honesty. Dr. Ravjot Singh stressed that these jobs have been given based on merit, without any recommendation, favoritism, or nepotism. He added that under Mission Rozgar, a total of 1,255 employees have been appointed in the Local Government Department, and the process is ongoing. He expressed hope that the new recruits would use their positions to assist the underprivileged and marginalized communities.

          On this occasion, the Minister for Local Government distributed appointment letters to 19 Executive officers, 18 drivers/operators, and 48 sanitation workers, Peons, and labourer

          Cabinet Minister, S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, congratulated the newly appointed employees, urging them to maintain cleanliness in the holy city, which attracts around 1.25 lakh pilgrims daily. He emphasized that it is their duty to keep the city clean and ensure a steady supply of clean water. S. Dhaliwal further stated that the Punjab Government is dedicated to the welfare of the common people and that jobs are being provided across all departments through a transparent recruitment process based solely on merit.

          Following the event, Cabinet Ministers Dr. Ravjot Singh, S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, and Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation, Mr. Gulpreet Singh, traveled by BRTS bus from the University to Bhandari Bridge. Dr. Ravjot Singh mentioned that the number of BRTS buses would be increased soon. He reassured that the government has sufficient funds to ensure the smooth operation of the BRTS system.

          The event was also attended by MLA Ajay Gupta, MLA S. Jasbeer Singh, MLA Inderbir Singh Nijjar, MLA Jeevanjot Kaur, SDM S. Mankawal Singh Chahal, AAP City President Mr. Munish Agarwal, Mr. Ravinder Hans, XEN Sandeep Singh, Dr. Kiran Kumar, and other officials.

Caption: Minister for Local Government, Punjab Dr. Ravjot Singh handing over appointment letters to newly appointed employees, accompanied by Cabinet Minister S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and others.

Minister for Local Government, Punjab Dr. Ravjot Singh and Cabinet Minister S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal traveling by BRTS bus.

Punjab

Punjab Government has recruited more than 50 thousand employees: Mundian

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Chandigarh, December 7

          Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardip Singh Mundian handed over appointment letters to three new employees recruited in the department.

          During a function in Chandigarh, he handed over appointment letters to Law Officer Kulwant Singh and Clerks Rupali and Milanpreet Kaur. He welcomed them to the department. On this occasion, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and Secretary Rahul Tiwari were also present.

          Mr. Mundian said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the State Government has recruited more than 50 thousand employees so far during two and a half years. Around 223 employees have been recruited by the Housing and Urban Development department. He said that the department will fill the vacant posts in the coming time.

          The Minister further said that the government is providing employment opportunities to the youth of the state in the state itself. Apart from this, by encouraging investment, an investor-friendly environment has been created, due to which employment opportunities are also being created in the private sector. This is also giving a boost to the economic development of the state.

Punjab

Silk Mark Expo 2024 attracts Record-Breaking Crowds

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Chandigarh, December 7

The ongoing Silk Mark Expo 2024 at Kisan Bhawan, Sector 35, Chandigarh, organized by the Silk Mark Organisation of India, the Central Silk Board, in collaboration with the horticulture departments of Punjab Government, has become a massive success, attracting thousands of visitors since its inauguration on December 4 by Punjab Horticulture Minister Mohinder Bhagat.

Under the guidance of Minister Mohinder Bhagat and directions of additional Chief Secretary Horticulture Mr.Anurag Verma Punjab has emerged as a leader in sericulture innovation, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. The state has significantly boosted silk farming across Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Hoshiarpur and Ropar.

Giving more information in this regard, the Minister said, “The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to empowering rural communities. The success of the Silk Mark Expo reflects our determination to expand the sericulture sector, ensuring better livelihoods for farmers and artisans.,

Mrs. Shailender Kaur, Director of Punjab Horticulture, said that pure silk products are attracting a lot of consumers. The Silk Expo 2024, running until December 9, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore premium pure silk products.

The expo features various stalls showcasing exquisite silk items, including sarees, stoles, and home décor etc., sourced from states like Punjab, Haryana, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, and others. The significant sales of pure silk and sericulture products at the expo reflect the growing demand for silk among consumers.

Chandigarh

No compromise on quality of roads, drinking water: Ranbir Gangwa

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Chandigarh, December 7

Haryana’s Public Works and Public Health Engineering Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa said there will be no compromise in the quality of drinking water and roads as these are public facilities directly connected to the common people.

He said the officers should ensure that people get clean drinking water and the quality of the roads should be such that they do not break easily.

Sh. Ranbir Gangwa was holding a meeting of district officers of both the departments in Kaithal today. He said the central and state governments led by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini have a clear policy that there should be no compromise on quality in any development work. Gangwa said he himself can also visit to inspect roads, drinking water supply centres or STPs in any village or city anytime. He directed officials to improve the system in time, and if any negligence is found, strict action will be taken.

He also instructed the officials to prepare the estimate of the roads which are in bad condition. These will be included in the Budget and completed. He said people’s problems should be resolved by immediately hearing their complaints, adding that to make the image of the department more clean, work will have to be done at the ground level. The public has given us an opportunity to serve, so we should fulfill our responsibilities honestly. He directed officials not to leave the construction of roads incomplete.

He said the officials should keep in mind that even if the agency takes the tender at a rate lower than the prescribed rate, it is its duty to ensure quality. Quality will not be compromised at any level. If flaws are found after taking the tender at a lower rate, the agency and the officials concerned will be responsible for that.

While giving instructions to officials of the Public Health Engineering Department, he asked officials to ensure the provision of clean drinking water in the homes of people. He said estimates should be made keeping the future in mind. Be it STP or drinking water project, cleanliness has to be ensured by inspecting the filters and other machinery from time to time. He also assured fulfilling the needs mentioned by the officials for roads, drinking water supply and STP projects in the district soon.

Chandigarh

Applications Invited for Haryana State Level Energy Conservation Awards

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Chandigarh, December 7

The Department of New and Renewable Energy, Haryana, in collaboration with HREDA, has announced the invitation of applications for the State Level Energy Conservation Awards for the year 2023-24. Eligible institutions are encouraged to apply by December 13, 2024. Award recipients stand to receive up to Rs. 2 lakh in recognition of their efforts.

An official spokesperson said that these prestigious awards are presented to institutions that demonstrate outstanding achievements in energy conservation. This includes contributions from industrial, commercial, governmental, institutional, and residential sectors that employ advanced technology and energy-efficient practices. The awards also recognize innovative projects in energy conservation, the use of new technologies, and research and development initiatives. Additionally, institutions that excel in research and innovation in areas such as energy efficiency, waste-to-energy conversion, renewable energy, and sustainable resource management are eligible for consideration.

For detailed guidelines and further information on the application process, applicants can visit HAREDA’s official website at www.hareda.gov.in or reach out to the Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chief Project Officer of their respective district.

Chandigarh

PGI hosts first-ever “On Arrival to Trauma Bay Nerve and Plexus Block” workshop: Redefining acute pain management

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IEP Chandigarh

Trauma Anaesthesia Group PGIMER Chandigarh under the aegis of The Society of Trauma Anaesthesia and Critical Care (STACC), organised its inaugural workshop titled “On Arrival to Trauma Bay Nerve and Plexus Block.” here at Lecture Theatre 1, PGIMER in Chandigarh. Organizing chairperson Prof (Dr) Kajal Jain said, “This one-day interactive course focused on early acute pain management for trauma patients on arrival to the hospital , emphasizing clinical skills enhancement through engaging hands-on sessions and live demonstrations utilizing ultrasound based nerve blocks .”

Dr Jain said, “This workshop aims to empower healthcare professionals with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for delivering on arrival pain management in critically injured whilst awaiting definitive management in Trauma emergency. By focusing on nerve and plexus blocks, we are enhancing our ability to provide effective analgesia right at the moment it’s needed most.”

She further said that the day’s schedule included a variety of conferences comprising  informative talks from renowned speakers in the field of trauma anaesthesia, including hosting International faculty via Telemedicine department PGIMER Chandigarh .Dr Arun Nagdev from University of California (online), discussed “Mastering Superior Pain Control in Trauma Bay; Indications, Techniques, and Set Up for Regional Analgesia.” And Dr. Vimi Rewari from AIIMS, delivered insights on “Emergency Regional Blocks and the Critical Polytrauma Patients: Challenges & Solutions.”

Dr Jain said that the participants engaged in breakout sessions for hands-on practice, including a live demonstration of perineural catheter placement for prolonging analgesia in upper limb injuries as well as placement of ultrasound guided epidural catheter placement for rib fractures led by Dr. Siva Shanmugam from MGMCRI, Puducherry.

Haryana

Don’t get misled by Opposition: CM Nayab Singh Saini appeals to farmers

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Chandigarh:

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has requested all the farmers not to pay attention to any kind of rumours. He said his government is committed to ensure continuous supply of DAP in the state so that farmers do not face any kind of problem in sowing Rabi crops. Till Today, a stock of 23,118 metric tonnes of DAP is available in various districts. Within the next two to three days, 9,172 metric tonnes more DAP will be received in various districts of the state.

The Chief Minister said the Haryana Government has made all arrangements for the availability of fertilizers. Congress leaders are working to mislead the farmers whereas the truth is that adequate stock of fertilizers is available in Haryana and its distribution is also being ensured properly. He said the DAP stock in the state is equal to the demand of last year. Last year, from October 1 to November 9, the consumption of DAP was 1,46,152 metric tonnes.

This time, till November 9, 2024, 1,54,540 metric tonnes have been consumed. He said the Government of India has allotted 1,10,200 metric tonnes of DAP to Haryana for the month of November. Apart from this, 71,281 metric tonnes of Single Super Phosphate (SSP) and 24,343 metric tonnes of NPK stock are still available in the state. *Share of commission agents increased from Rs 46 to Rs 55 per quintal* Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said the state government has worked for the interests of commission agents. “Our government has increased the commission of the commission agent from Rs 46 per quintal to Rs 55 per quintal. The additional burden of Rs 9 per quintal will be borne by the state government.

The government has resolved all the problems of all rice millers in every possible way. A bonus of Rs 62.58 crore has been given to all rice millers till August 31, 2024 for delivery of CMR in the state. Apart from this, the matter of out-turn ratio of hybrid variety of paddy has also been placed before the Government of India. So far, 50,46,872.45 metric tonnes of paddy procured, farmers paid more than Rs 11,296 crore. Giving information about the purchase of Kharif crops, the Chief Minister said during this Kharif season 2024-25, 4,84,927 farmers are registered on the Meri Fasal Mera Byora portal for paddy. The government has made complete arrangements for the payment of the crop. After the purchase of the crop, the work of transferring the money to the accounts of the farmers was done within 72 hours. He said so far, 50,46,872.45 metric tonnes of paddy has been procured in the state, in lieu of which an amount of more than Rs 11,296 crore has been paid to the farmers. *Congress working only for self-interest: CM

Nayab Singh Saini said seeing the farmer-friendly decisions of the Haryana Government and the arrangements made in the mandis for crop purchase, farmers of neighbouring states are also willing to sell their crops in the mandis of Haryana. Taking a dig at the Opposition, he said the Congress is not able to digest the farmer-friendly policies of the government. For the Congress, which claims to protect the interests of farmers, their own interests are paramount, not the interests of farmers. He said in other states, farmers had to agitate to get their crops purchased at MSP, whereas in Haryana, the government made robust arrangements and every grain of the farmers’ crop is being purchased at MSP. Indiaepost is a bilingual news portal, dedicated to provide update news to the people of the world.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Grey Group and Marriott International unveil JW Marriott Ludhiana, Setting New Standards in Luxury Hospitality

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Chandigarh, November 9

Grey Group and Marriott International proudly announce the grand opening of JW Marriott Ludhiana, a landmark addition to Punjab’s luxury hospitality landscape, set to offer an unparalleled experience in sophistication and comfort. The exclusive launch event took place at JW Marriott Chandigarh, where representatives from both Grey Group and Marriott International highlighted the collaborative vision to redefine premium hospitality in the region.

JW Marriott Ludhiana stands as a premier destination with 160 elegantly designed rooms and expansive indoor and outdoor banqueting spaces, catering to discerning guests who seek a blend of luxury and world-class service. The property’s offerings include a selection of fine dining venues, a specialty restaurant, sophisticated lounge bars, and a welcoming lobby lounge, all crafted to provide a memorable stay. In addition, guests have access to a fully equipped gym, a serene spa and a luxurious swimming pool, ensuring a holistic wellness experience.

In addition, Grey Group launched an exclusive, members-only luxury club featuring world-class amenities and is planning to introduce branded luxury residences.

Inder Raj Singh, Managing Director of Grey Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to bring the JW Marriott brand to Ludhiana. This launch symbolizes our dedication to elevating luxury hospitality in the region and creating a unique experience that harmonizes world-class service with the cultural richness of Ludhiana. JW Marriott Ludhiana is poised to become a distinguished landmark for both locals and travellers, offering unparalleled quality and elegance.”

Speaking on behalf of JW Marriott, brand representatives emphasized the attention to detail in every aspect of the property, from sophisticated interiors to state-of-the-art amenities, all tailored to enhance guest experiences.

With JW Marriott Ludhiana, the brand extends its legacy of luxury and commitment to excellence, setting a new benchmark for the region’s hospitality standards. This latest addition reinforces JW Marriott’s dedication to delivering unmatched experiences, marking a significant milestone for Ludhiana’s hospitality industry.