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Sandhwan releases biography of Ex-MP and Padma Bhushan Awardee Tarlochan Singh

IEP Chandigarh, January 5

          Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, on Friday, unveiled the book titled “S. Tarlochan Singh: Historic Journey”, shedding light on the life of the former Member of Parliament and Padma Bhushan Awardee S. Tarlochan Singh, here at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration.

          During the ceremony, the chief guest S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan hailed S. Tarlochan Singh as an individual whose capabilities have solidified his legacy. “As a stalwart in politics, religion and journalism, S. Tarlochan Singh stands out as a prominent figure in the Punjabi community, providing a distinctive identity to the global Sikh community”, he added.

          S. Sandhwan said that capturing the tireless work, substantial struggles and numerous achievements of Tarlochan Singh’s life within a book seemed an impossible feat. However, Dr. Prabhleen Singh admirably accomplished this task, unveiling countless facets of S. Tarlochan Singh’s commendable life.

          Notably, S. Tarlochan Singh served as the Press Secretary to President of India Giani Zail Singh from 1983 to 1987. He held the post of Chairman of the National Commission on Minorities and remained Rajya Sabha Member from 2005 to 2011. S. Tarlochan Singh voiced his concerns in Parliament on December 14, 2009 against the Sikh massacre of 1984. He passionately expressed his anger over the injustice done to the Sikh community nationwide, demanding justice. He had also advised Giani Zail Singh for the construction of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Marg during Giani Zail Singh’s tenure as the Chief Minister of Punjab. Ex-MP’s significant contributions spanned across various positions at both the Punjab and national levels, where he executed his duties with distinction, rendering exemplary service. Through his sheer determination, he ascended to the Parliament in Delhi and left an indelible mark in various fields worldwide.

          The Speaker stated that S. Tarlochan Singh himself is a distinguished writer, who enlightened our path by penning various serious issues related to history, religion, administration and politics, adding that upon reading the book, it becomes apparent that not only does it shed light on the personal life of Tarlochan Singh, but it also illuminates many significant events in the country’s history and their impact on his life.

          S. Sandhwan stated that Sardar Tarlochan Singh forged his destiny by embracing the philosophies of the great Sikh Guru Sahiban. His dedication as a true disciple of the Gurus is evident in his journey.

          Referring to his personal association with S. Tarlochan Singh, the PVS Speaker mentioned the strong bond between his grandfather Giani Zail Singh and former MP Tarlochan Singh. He noted that Giani Zail Singh, during his tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab to his presidency, held deep trust in S. Tarlochan Singh. In turn, the former MP also served with selflessness, integrity and sensitivity, as outlined in the sequence of events in this book.

          Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of State Mr. Som Prakash said that Mr.  Tarlochan Singh always raised his voice for Punjab and Punjabiat.  He said that this book will prove to be a source of inspiration for the coming generations.

          While speaking on the occasion, S. Tarlochan Singh said that after facing homelessness during the partition, he resorted to child labour in Patiala for one and half year to sustain his family, he saved a portion of his earnings to enroll in Khalsa School. In 1949, he passed the tenth standard and later obtained an MA in Economics in 1955.

          Authored by Dr. Prabhaleen Singh and published by Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust, this book delves into the life’s struggle and work done by S. Tarlochan Singh. The author meticulously gathered exceptional information about S. Tarlochan Singh through extensive research from around eight prominent writers.

          Dr. Sarabjinder Singh, Dean, Faculty, Humanities & Religious Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Prof. Karamjeet Singh, Vice Chancellor, Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University, Patiala, Mr. Sandeep Gosh, Editor Outlook, Mr. Suresh Kumar, IAS (Ret.), S. Rupinder Singh, Senior Associate Editor (Retired) The Tribune and author Dr. Prabhleen Singh also spoke and shed light on various aspects of the life of S. Tarlochan Singh, describing him the Encyclopedia of Sikhism.”

          Prominent amongst others who were in the event, Dr. SP Singh Oberoi, Managing Trustee, Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust, Politician S. Balwant Singh Ramuwalia, Former Finance Minister S. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, S. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor, Chandigarh University, Former MLA S. Kanwar Sandhu and others.

SPEAKER SANDHWAN CONDOLES DEMISE OF JATHEDAR BALWANT SINGH NANDGARH

         Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, on Friday expressed deep grief over the sad demise of Jathedar Balwant Singh Nandgarh.

          In a press communique issued here, the Speaker stated that due to the demise of Bhai Balwant Singh Nandgarh, former Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda), Panth has suffered a great loss. He said that the memorial services performed by Jathedar Sahib in the religious field will always be remembered with respect.

          The speaker prayed to Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul  and to grant strength to the entire Sadh Sangat including the family to beer the loss.

Punjab CM sets wheel in motion for setting up a big pharmaceutical city in State

 IEP Visakhapatnam, January 5

 Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday extended Red carpet welcome to the pharmaceutical companies for making huge investments in the state.

 The Chief Minister, who visited the Jawahar Lal Nehru Pharma city here today, said that there is a huge potential of pharmaceutical sector in the state. He said that the companies should come forward for making big investments in the state to propel its economic growth on one hand and to expand their business on the other. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it will help in emerging the state as a front runner in the pharmaceutical sector.

The Chief Minister also had detailed deliberations with the officers of the pharma city for setting up same venture in the state. He said that such pharmaceutical city can prove to be a boon for the state and can generate a lot of employment opportunities for the youth. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government will leave no stone unturned for exploring the feasibility of setting up this city in the state.

 The Chief Minister also undertook a tour of the pharmaceutical city and minutely observed functioning of the pharma companies by visiting their units. He said that the state government is committed for ensuring holistic development of the state and prosperity of its people. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that such projects are the need of the hour for carving out a rangla and vibrant Punjab.

Man held for cheating people with fake room ads on social media platform

IEP Chandigarh

The Cyber Crime Police Station of Chandigarh Police on Thursday arrested a person on the charge of cheating people with fake room advertisements on social media platform. The accused has been identified as Ankit Gaur, resident of Zirakpur, Punjab, said the police.

In the statement, Ketan Bansal, SP-Cyber, UT Chandigarh stated that in the complaint, the complainant stated that she was searching a room on rent in Chandigarh. In this regard, she had seen an advertisement on Facebook along with the given mobile number 8699716623.
On August 26, 2023, the victim contacted the above given mobile number. On this, the caller told the complainant to send the requirement on Whatsapp. Complaint sent in written to the caller whatsapp number that she needed one room set. Then, the caller shared the picture of the room to the complainant on whatsapp and an amount of Rs 9,000 was settled per month. Caller asked her to pay Rs 20,000 including one month room rent, one month advance and Rs 2,000 brokerage, and asked the owner of the house on his google pay mobile number 9915968856.
On August 28, 2023 she transferred Rs18,000, Rs.2,000 to google pay on mobile number 9915968856. Complainant contacted again to caller to get the room-key. The caller again asked the complainant to pay the remaining amount of brokerage of Rs 2,300 on said google pay mobile number. On August 28, 2023 she transferred Rs 2,300 to google pay mobile number 9915968856. Complainant neither got room on rent nor her money return in which the complainant has financial loss of total amount Rs 23,500 by cheaters on her part. Acting on the complaint, a case was registered and team members started investigation.  A raid was conducted in Zirakpur and the accused was arrested. Two days police custody of the accused was taken from the Court, it stated.

Maruti Suzuki expands R & D Operations in IMT Rohtak in 100 acres

IEP Chandigarh

Under the leadership of Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal, Haryana has emerged as a beacon of continuous industrial development over the past 9 years. The state’s strategic initiatives, combined with various incentives and facilities provided by the government, have made it a preferred investment destination for both national and international investors. Also, following the success of Gurugram, the spotlight is now on IMT Kharkhoda, which is poised to evolve as a thriving industrial centre. Maruti Suzuki’s mega plant in Kharkhoda has set the stage for further expansion, with Uno Minda Limited committing a substantial investment of approximately Rs. 1100 crore in its upcoming mega project. This move is not only anticipated to propel the industrial landscape of the region but also promises a surge in employment opportunities.

During the 16th meeting of the Haryana Enterprise Promotion Board held under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister on Wednesday late evening, approval was granted to allocate approximately 94.32 acres of land to M/s Uno Minda Limited for its mega project. Additionally, Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited has proposed to invest around Rs. 2,000 crore to establish a mega plant in IMT Kharkhoda.

Deputy Chief Minister, Sh. Dushyant Chautala, School Education Minister, Sh. Kanwar Pal, and Minister of State for Labour, Sh. Anoop Dhanak also remained present on this occasion.

Mega Plant for Chemicals and Petrochemicals to come up near IOCL Panipat refinery

During the meeting, the Chief Minister was apprised that to boost industrial development, the state government, under the Haryana Enterprises and Promotion Policy (HEEP), 2020, is providing clearances of all kinds to investors under one roof, enhancing the confidence of every investor in Haryana and now a chemicals and petrochemicals mega plant for the production of Polyester Chips is set to be established near IOCL Panipat refinery. The Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) has allotted 14 acres of land to M/s Uflex Limited near IOCL Panipat Refinery. The company will invest around Rs. 600 crore in the state, providing employment opportunities for local youth.

Expansion of Maruti Suzuki’s R&D Activities in IMT Rohtak

The Chief Minister was further apprised that Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) is already operating Research and Development (R&D) activities with Rs. 3,600 crore investment on 600 acres of the allotted 700 acres of land in IMT Rohtak. This initiative has created employment for approximately 3,400 people. Now, MSIL has expressed its intention to acquire the remaining 100 acres of land for the expansion of its unit, which the Board has approved.

HSIIDC aims to attract an investment of Rs. 28,950 crore

It was shared in the meeting that the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) has set a goal to attract an investment of Rs.28,950 crore in Block-A, B, C, and D under the Haryana Enterprises and Promotion Policy, 2020. Advertisements for plot auctions are regularly released to achieve this goal, and investors have shown enthusiasm for investing in the state.

Chief Secretary, Sh. Sanjeev Kaushal, Chief Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department, Sh. Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Sh. Anand Mohan Sharan, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Sh. V Umashankar, Managing Director, Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation, Sh. Yash Garg and Additional Managing Director, HSIIDC, Smt. Varsha Khangwal and other officers also remained present on this occasion.

People’s problems are being resolved at their doorstep in Haryana

IEP Chandigarh

The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, which is being undertaken to reach the various welfare schemes of the central and state governments to the last person and to create a resolution for a developed India, is being welcomed warmly and is drawing lakhs of people from Haryana every day.

Modi’s ‘guarantee vehicle’ is being super hit as it is not only making people aware about the government welfare schemes and how to avail them to the people but also getting their issues resolved on the spot.

Notably, during the Yatra the MPs, MLAs and officers go among the people to assess their problems and provide an outline for their solution.

People are appreciating the initiative that can be seen via the increasing number everyday as on the 35th day of the Yatra, 3 lakh 33 thousand 642 people have participated so far. 

Women are being appreciated

During the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, women who have done commendable work in various fields are being appreciated, till date 26217 women have been awarded along with 39255 meritorious students and 5580 athletes. 

People getting health benefits from health camps

People health is also being undertaken as it is one of the crucial aspect of life, during the Yatra health stalls have been set up at various programme venues which not only ensures to get their health checked but also makes them aware about the health related government schemes such as NIROGI Haryana, Ayushman Bharat, Chirayu Haryana, TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. So far 43738 people have been screened during the Yatra in the health camps.

Eligible people of Ujjwala Yojana are getting benefited

People are given the benefits of the schemes on the spot during the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra. Cards were distributed to 8019 Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries at programme sites, and eligible individuals are receiving benefits from the scheme. Similarly, 11673 cards were distributed to the beneficiaries of Ayushman Yojana.

Cabinet Minister participates annual function of Maharaja Aggarsen Senior Secondary School, Tohana

IEP Chandigarh

Development and Panchayats Minister, Sh. Devender Singh Babli participated as the chief guest in the annual function of Maharaja Aggarsen Senior Secondary School, Tohana. During the function Sh. Babli distributed prizes to the talented students and also paid tribute to the first female teacher Smt. Savitribai Phule.

Sh.Babli encouraged the students to preserve the environment and to promote afforestation. “We learn lot from school, it aim is to prepares us for the obstacles and uncertain circumstances of life” said the Development and Panchayats Minister.

He mentioned that in a child’s life 2 mentors are there who play the most significant role, Parents and teacher and one should always follow their advice and should walk in their footsteps for a bright future.

Highlighting the importance of healthy and beautiful childhood Sh. Babli said that the parents should never pressurise any child and should always encourage them to pursue their field of interest to make their future bright and beautiful.

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in Haryana Facilitates Massive Screenings and Ayushman Card Distribution

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Secretary, Mr. Sanjeev Kaushal said that the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra’ has garnered a substantial participation, with over 3.2 million individuals as of January 2nd.

While reviewing the both central and state development schemes, Mr. Kaushal instructed Additional Chief Secretaries to collaborate with Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) in regularly monitoring their implementation. He emphasized the need for establishing clear timeframes for achieving targets and urged them to convene regular meetings with bankers to ensure timely disbursal of benefits under various welfare schemes. Furthermore, Mr. Kaushal stressed the importance of ADC involvement, making them personally responsible for ensuring that beneficiaries encounter no difficulties in accessing loans and other benefits under these schemes.

During a review of the ‘Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra,’ Mr. Kaushal highlighted the immediate issuance of 711,130 Ayushman Bharat Cards at Yatra events, showcasing its extensive reach and effectiveness. This impressive figure was further complemented about 600,000 individuals receiving comprehensive medical screenings, including targeted evaluations for 400,000 for TB and 21,671 for sickle cell. These remarkable achievements reaffirm the government’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible healthcare for all, extending beyond specific diseases to address diverse health needs through the Yatra’s initiatives.

As of January 2, 2024, a total of 102,553 awards recognized outstanding achievements, celebrating women achievers (25,590), exemplary students (38,295), and contributions from local artists (5,141) and athletes (5,407). Agriculture received a major boost with 8,486 Kisan Credit Cards issued and 56,356 new beneficiaries registered under the PM Kisan scheme, showcasing the emphasis on ‘Satat Krishi’ advancements. Technological interventions took center stage through 56,356 drone demonstrations, while significant strides were made in land record digitization and ensuring water accessibility in over 85% of households.

Illegal cuts on National Highways should be closed, Hry Transport Minister directs officers

IEP Chandigarh

In a proactive move towards enhancing road safety, Haryana Transport Minister, Sh. Mool Chand Sharma chaired a pivotal meeting of the State Road Safety Council held here today. During the meeting, he emphasized the imperative need to transform National Highway-44 into a zero-tolerance zone, aiming to curb accidents and enhance overall safety standards. He also directed the officers to immediately close all unauthorized cuts on these roads to ensure control over accidents. He emphasized taking strict action against illegal cuts made in front of dhabas and petrol pumps on national highways.

The Minister said that the goal is to reduce accidents on roads. To control accidents, increased patrolling on national and state highways is essential. He emphasized prompt completion of work related to accident-prone points, speed breakers, signage boards, road markings, cat eyes, and black spots. He further directed the officers concerned to immediately address illegal cuts on National Highways, particularly those in front of dhabas and petrol pumps, by registering FIRs.

The Transport Minister stressed the importance of road safety, especially during foggy weather. He directed the departments to install reflectors and reflective tape on roads, tractors, trailers, buses, and other vehicles to enhance visibility. He also emphasized placing reflective tape on the horns of stray animals to prevent accidents. Reducing road accidents is our responsibility, he added.

Sh. Mool Chand Sharma directed forest department officers to timely trim trees on road edges to prevent animals from hiding behind them, thus avoiding accidents. He also directed the officers of the Excise and Taxation Department to use GPS to locate liquor shops under the New Excise Policy.

He said the initiation of the Integrated Road Accident Database (IRAD) project by the Ministry of Transport, Government of India, which has been implemented in Haryana. Various departments, including police, health, NHAI, PWD, HSIIDC, and local bodies, are involved in this project to work on road safety at the state and district levels. All departments submit their reports on this portal.

The Minister said that the National Road Safety Week will be observed from January 11 to 17 in all 22 districts to educate the public about the consequences of reckless driving. He encouraged organizing presentations and workshops in schools, community centres, and workplaces to raise awareness about road safety rules.

Sh. Mool Chand Sharma directed departments namely Civic Bodies, Development and Panchayat, Health, Public Works (Buildings and Roads), Education, Transport, Forest, Excise and Taxation, Police, Marketing Board, HSIIDC, and NHAI to prepare action plans related to road safety by January 15, 2024. He also directed the officers of these departments to attend the upcoming Road Safety Council meeting in March with full preparedness.

Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management, Sh. TVSN Prasad, Principal Secretary, Transport Department, Sh. Navdeep Singh Virk, Director General, Information, Public Relations, Language and Culture Department and Mines and Geology Department, Sh. Mandip Singh Brar, IG Traffic, Sh. Hardeep Doon, Transport Commissioner, Sh. Yashendra Singh and senior officers of various departments also remained present on this occasion.

Development and Panchayats Minister welcomes the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra at the villages of Tohana

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Minister of Development and Panchayats, Sh. Devender Singh Babli, welcomed the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra at the villages of Tohana – Diwana, Nathuwal, Ratta Theh, and Dher. The Minister of Development and Panchayats, Sh. Devender Singh Babli, stated that the present government has worked towards eliminating corruption while ensuring that the benefits of schemes reach the citizens directly. Expressing gratitude towards the Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal for waiving off crores of rupees of the outstanding water charges, along with surcharge and interest, he said that the government has ensured that the direct benefits of the schemes reach the citizens.

Sh. Babli addressed the beneficiaries at the programme and administered an oath to make the country ‘Viksit’ Developed. He also inspected stalls displaying the plans of various departments.

Sh. Babli highlighted the government’s focus is on ensuring that the welfare schemes reach the last person standing in the queue. Through the Yatra, information about government-implemented schemes is being disseminated to the public through stalls set up by various departments. This includes details about Ayushman Cards, Chirayu Cards, Old Age Samman Allowance scheme and other Agriculture Department-related schemes, along with other initiatives.

The Minister of Development and Panchayats emphasized that the decision to waive off crores of rupees in water charges, including surcharge and interest, taken during the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal, aims to provide significant relief to rural families.

Haryana Cabinet Minister Devender Singh Babli perform Bhoomi Pujan of NH-148B in Tohana to be built at a cost of Rs 149 crore

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Development and Panchayat Minister Sh. Devender Singh Babli performed  ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ of NH-148B in Tohana to be built at a cost of Rs 149 crore. He said that for people to commute easily such projects are being undertaken which is beneficial for the traffic regulation too.

This road will be widened from seven meters to ten meters. This road from Surewala Chowk passing through Tohana city to the Punjab border will be given an attractive look by making a divider in the middle of the town. In addition, Sh.Babli also inaugurated various development works in the villages of Dangra, Laloda, and Dhani Bhojraj.

He said that Tohana is making good progress in terms of development. Either there are various developmental works which have been completed or are in progress. Such includes the construction of a 100-bed hospital, a modern bus stand and commuters will get relief after the NH- 148B construction.

He said other underway projects which includes Rasulpur medical college, widening of Tohana-Kulan-Ratia road at a cost of Rs.80 crore, a flyover wil be built in Jamalpur at a cost of Rs.36 Crore and improvement of the drinking water supply in the region. A project to supply canal water to Jakhal at a cost of Rs 38 crore is underway. Besides for  increasing the capacity of water tanks in Tohana city, a water pipeline is also being built at a cost of Rs.90 crore.

Sh.Babli stated that the state government is committed towards the development of the rural areas for which the government had released a grant of Rs 1100 crore to Gram Panchayats and a grant of Rs 1500 crore for development works is given and similar amout of grant will be given to the Panchayats by March.

He further stated that the government is moving forward with 9-point programmes providing basic facilities in the villages  including Gym, library, women’s culture centre, community centre, street light, CCTV cameras, waste management, grey water management and other.