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Haryana

Haryana  has adopted “4Ts” strategy to eliminate TB

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Chandigarh, December 7

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini while speaking at the  launch programme of the countrywide intensified 100 Day TB elimination campaign held at Panchkula on Saturday said that the government is working on “4Ts” to eliminate TB which are Test, Track, Treat and Technology. He said that intensified testing in the last 10 years has led to the identification of new TB cases and treatment of which is being given free of cost.

The Chief Minister urged the people to upload the data of every new TB case in the Ni-kshay portal which also provides timely updates to TB patients. He  said that the  state government is working with NGOs and civil society to further bolster its TB elimination efforts.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi and Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Sh. J.P. Nadda for choosing Haryana to kickstart the intensified 100-day TB campaign.  He assured that Haryana would strive to play a prominent role in the fight against TB in India.

He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, India started working against TB with a new mindset and approach after 2014, which is unprecedented. Over the past 10 years, India has fought against TB through the medium of successful campaigns like Jan Bhagidari, Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana, Fit India and Khelo India which are admired across the world. He said that the launch of the 100-day National Ni-kshay Camp for TB eradication will be a milestone in this effort.

Haryana is the second state to connect X-ray centres with Indian Plasma Research Institute through AI to eliminate TB, CM

The Chief Minister said that the Haryana government is providing even more advanced technology to eliminate TB. All existing X-ray centers are being connected with Indian Plasma Research Institute in Ahmedabad through AI to eliminate TB. Haryana is the second state in the country to implement this technology. Two state-of-the-art Micro Bacterial Culture and DST Labs have been set up  in Rohtak and Karnal. Besides this, a new lab is being set up in Ambala, shared Sh. Nayab Singh Saini. He said that through 59 mobile health vans, TB tests are being conducted in villages, slums, among daily wage workers, brick kiln workers, and farmers.

131 new DMCs are being opened for sample testing, CM

The Chief Minister said that if TB patients also suffer from other illnesses, the government provides free treatment for those as well. Four Nodal Drug-Resistant TB Centers have been established at PGIMS Rohtak, as well as at medical colleges in Karnal, Nuh, and Sonipat. In addition, District Nodal Drug-Resistant TB Centers have been set up in all 22 districts. All patient samples are sent to the nearest designated microscopy center for testing. The number of such centers in the state has increased from 358 to 428. Moreover, 131 new DMCs are being opened. Handheld X-rays with AI are being used in all districts of the state.

He further shared that all tests for TB diagnosis are being conducted free of charge. Patients are provided free treatment under the Ayushman scheme, both in the government and private sectors. So far, claims worth Rs. 29 crore of 17,500 TB patients have been settled. Even in cases where the patient is not eligible for the Ayushman scheme, free treatment is provided, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Target set to make approximately 1,800 TB-free Gram Panchayats this year, CM

The Chief Minister said that the positive results of the initiatives taken against TB are visible. More people are coming forward to get tested and treated for TB. In 2023, Haryana had 579 TB-free Gram Panchayats. This year, the target is to create approximately 1,800 TB-free Gram Panchayats. He further shared that the data of 79,652 patients from the state has been uploaded to the Ni-kshay portal. So far, 3.49 lakh patients have been provided financial assistance worth Rs. 117.46 crore under the Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY).

Under the campaign, as many TB patients as possible will be screened and provided treatment within the next 100 days, Kumari Arti Singh Rao

Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Haryana Health Minister, Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that the the regular screening and testing of the TB patients is already being done and now as a part of this newly launched Campaign, the screening, testing and ensuring timely treatment to maximum TB patients within the next 100 days will be further intensified. She further shared that the Central Government has increased the monthly allowance being given under Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) for TB patients from Rs. 500 to Rs.1,000  so as to ensure they receive a nutritious diet.

She said that Ni-kshay vehicles were flagged off today by the Union Health Minister. Many people are unable to reach hospitals, and their TB remains undetected. These vehicles will reach such individuals, conduct sample testing, and provide treatment.

On this occasion, Haryana Cabinet Minister, Sh. Anil Vij, BJP State President Sh. Mohan Lal Badoli, MLA, Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma,  officers , doctors, and  people associated with healthcare services, were also present.

Haryana

Ahead of Prime Minister’s visit in Panipat, Chief Minister reviews preparations

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Chandigarh December 7

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday reviewed preparations being made at Panipat ahead of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s visit on December 9. Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi will be launching the Bima Sakhi Yojana from Panipat.

During the review, the Chief Minister held meetings with officers and issued necessary directives. He said that the government has always been committed to women’s empowerment. The state is actively working towards empowering women. The Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Virender Kumar Dahiya assured the Chief Minister that all arrangements for the programme have been completed, making it a historic event.

The Chief Minister said that the nationwide Bima Sakhi Yojana inauguration programme will be a significant event dedicated to women empowerment. He said that in 2015, the Prime Minister  had given the impactful message of  ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ from the historic city of Panipat only.

The Chief Minister said that the Bima Sakhi Yojana will certainly further give a major boost to women empowerment, create new employment opportunities, and enable them to progress further. Enhancing women’s living standards through self-help groups is a key priority of the government, he said.

He said that the passing of the Women’s Reservation Bill by Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s government has further strengthened women’s position. He said that empowering women significantly contributes to the nation’s development.

The Chief Minister while interacting with the mediapersons reaffirmed the government’s robust efforts for farmers welfare. He said that despite attempts by some political parties to mislead farmers, they have not succeeded. The Prime Minister has implemented decisive and impactful measures in favor of farmers, empowering them and extending the benefits of government schemes, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

Cabinet Ministers, Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar,  Sh. Mahipal Dhanda, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, MLA, Sh.  Pramod Vij, former MP, Sh. Sanjay Bhatia also remained present during this.

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.