IEP Chandigarh

The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing campaign against corruption in the state on Tuesday nabbed Ajay Kumar, Junior Engineer (JE) Nagar Council, Nabha, Patiala district red handed for accepting bribe of Rs 50000.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the state VB said the above mentioned accused has been arrested on the complaint of Jagdeep Singh, resident of Nabha city. He further added that the the complainant has approached the VB and alleged that the said JE was demanding bribe of Rs 50,000 for clearing file regarding change of land use (CLU) of his shop in Nabha city.

          The spokesperson informed the the VB after a preliminary investigation of the complaint laid a trap and the accused was arrested in the presence of two official witnesses while he was taking the bribe money from the complainant.

          In this regard a FIR has been registered against the accused at VB police station Patiala range under the corruption act. Further investigation in this case was under progress, he added.

Punjab’s success with Agriculture Infrastructure Fund scheme continues: Chetan Singh Jauramajra

IEP Chandigarh, September 19

          Once again, Punjab’s farmers and agri-entrepreneurs have demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit by enthusiastically embracing the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme, aimed at establishing various post-harvest management projects and community farming assets. Impressively, the state has received over 10,000 applications under this scheme so far.

          While sharing the latest figure, Horticulture Minister S. Chetan said that as of September 18, Punjab has received a total of 10,509 applications, of which 6,042 applications have already been sanctioned and 5,166 applications have been disbursed. He said that Punjab has maintained its position as the second-highest state in terms of applications sanctioned under the scheme. Notably, three districts have each surpassed 1,000 applications, namely Bathinda (1,286), Fazilka (1,158) and Patiala (1,087).

          The Horticulture Minister maintained that the AIF scheme provides 3% interest assistance for up to 7 years on term loans for eligible activities, with a maximum interest rate set at 9%. Beneficiaries can avail this benefit for amounts up to Rs.2 crores and each beneficiary can establish up to 25 projects at different locations.

          S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra informed that the eligible projects include Storage Infrastructure (Warehouses, Silos, Cold Stores, Cold Rooms etc.), Primary Processing Centers (Atta Chakki, Dal Mill, Oil Expeller, Rice Sheller, Spice Processing, Gur Making etc.), Sorting and Grading units, Packhouses, Ripening Chambers, Farm Machinery (minimum of 4 units), Combine Harvesters, Boom Sprayers, Balers, Cotton Ginning, Honey Processing, Silk Processing, Nurseries, Seed Processing, Vermicompost, Compressed Biogas Plants etc. He said that certain projects such as Mushroom Farming, Aeroponics, Hydroponics, Polyhouses, Greenhouses etc., can also be established by farmer groups.

          The Cabinet Minister said that solar panels on eligible projects and solar pumps can also be set up under this scheme. He said that the Department of Horticulture, which serves as the nodal agency for implementing the scheme in Punjab, has also set up a WhatsApp helpline No. 9056092906 to assist with inquiries related to the scheme.

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IEP Chandigarh

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday congratulated the Indian cricket team for lifting the Asia Cup cricket by defeating Sri Lanka in a spectacular match.

In a congratulatory message, the  Chief Minister said that it is a matter of great pride and satisfaction that these Indian cricket team has brought laurels for the country by clinging this Cup. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Indian cricket team has created history by winning this cup for the eight time. He lauded the entire team for making country proud and extended best wishes to them for future.

The Chief Minister said that marvellous bowling by Mohammed Siraj had made the match one sided. He said that the entire cricket team deserves a pat for spectacular performance to win this cup. Extending best wishes for the coming World Cup, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the team is pride of the country.

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Manohar Lal flagged off the Cyclothon in  Sirsa today, marking a crucial step in the “Drug-Free Haryana” campaign. During his address to participants and the public gathered at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Sirsa, Sh. Manohar Lal expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming public response, surpassing the previous marathon records from 2019. He stressed the growing concern about drug-related issues in Haryana and praised the Cyclothon Yatra for effectively raising awareness. The Cyclothon commenced on September 1 from Karnal and is scheduled to conclude in Karnal on September 25, spanning across 15 districts in Haryana.

In addition to highlighting the significance of the Cyclothon event, the Chief Minister acknowledged the dual importance of the day, being both the birthday of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi and the celebration of Lord Vishwakarma’s birth as National Labour Day. He extended his warm wishes to workers, labourers, artisans, and all those contributing to the nation’s progress.

The participation in the Cyclothon Yatra has surged beyond two lakh cyclists, with a potential to set a world record as it progresses through Fatehabad, Ratia, Tohana, Uklana, Jind, Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Ambala, Panchkula, and Yamunanagar before reaching Karnal. In comparison, the largest Cyclothon organised in Madhya Pradesh had 35000 participants, highlighting the remarkable scale of Haryana’s initiative.

The core objective of the Cyclothon Yatra is to disseminate the message of de-addiction and strive towards a drug-free Haryana. The Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the drug problem, with a specific focus on the districts of Sirsa and Fatehabad, where the issue is most acute. In Sirsa, the Yatra extended for three days to address the gravity of the situation.

The Chief Minister emphasized the pivotal role of the youth in realizing India’s potential as a global leader. He called upon them to take a stand against drug addiction and spread awareness among their peers. He outlined three critical steps for the success of the “Drug-Free Haryana” campaign: rehabilitation of drug addicts, stringent legal actions against drug traffickers, and comprehensive awareness programs targeting the youth.

As a source of inspiration, the Chief Minister cited the example of 74-year-old Kamlesh Rana from Rohtak, who is actively participating in the Cyclothon to combat drug addiction. Her journey began in 2020, and her dedication remains an inspiration to all participants. Additionally, two other elderly participants aged 75 and 76 have displayed admirable determination. He commended them for serving as a source of inspiration for all.

The event saw an electrifying atmosphere when renowned Punjabi singer Mankirat Aulakh graced the stage, captivating the audience with his performance. The presence of renowned Punjabi singer Mankirat Aulakh injected tremendous energy into the event by performing his popular songs, using this platform to convey the commitment of Haryana’s state government to a drug-free Haryana.

IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal said that the sanitation workers played a vital role in making Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat Mission successful. The state government has initiated several new programmes for the well-being of sanitation workers.

The Chief Minister was addressing the sanitation worker’s felicitation ceremony organized on the occasion of the birthday of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi in Sirsa on Sunday.

The Chief Minister extended his wishes for the Prime Minister’s long life. He praised the Prime Minister’s leadership, which has elevated India’s status on the global stage.

He said that the government’s continuous efforts to improve the welfare of the poor and labourers, highlighting the implementation of new schemes aimed at raising their standard of living.

The Chief Minister stated that Labour Day celebrations were underway in the state, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Lord Vishwakarma. He urged sanitation workers to pay special attention to their children’s education, assuring that the government would provide support for quality education.

He also announced plans to hire approximately 1,000 sanitation workers soon, with the goal of introducing new amenities for sanitation workers, including machinery, in line with the changing times.

Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal acknowledged Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s various campaigns, including the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, said that the state’s cleanliness campaign was inspired by these efforts. He praised the public’s wholehearted support for the cleanliness campaign, underscoring the essential role sanitation workers play in making it successful.

IEP Chandigarh

On his 73rd birthday, Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi dedicated the day to Lord Vishwakarma and introduced several initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at empowering and supporting the nation’s workforce. This scheme specifically targets the underprivileged, with a focus on traditional craftsmen and artisans. It offers a range of benefits, including training programs and access to loans.

Meanwhile, Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal expressed his deep appreciation for Prime Minister, Sh.  Narendra Modi’s efforts in launching these programs on the occasion of Lord Shri Vishwakarma Jayanti. He underscored how the Prime Minister’s actions exemplify the principle of “Shramev Jayate,” signifying the triumph of hard work.

Haryana celebrated National Labour Day in a distinctive manner on Lord Shri Vishwakarma Jayanti, with a statewide event held at the nation’s first Shri Vishwakarma Skill University established by the Haryana Government in Palwal. This university aims to impart valuable skills to thousands of young individuals each year.

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Manohar Lal emphasized the significance of labour and industriousness, quoting the words of Swami Vivekananda, who stated that “labour is life.” He stressed that labour isn’t merely crucial for personal well-being but also plays a pivotal role in advancing the state and the country, making “Shramev Jayate” the true embodiment of labour.

The Chief Minister also acknowledged Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi’s vision for India to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2047, marking the centenary of India’s independence. He recognized the substantial strides made in industrial development, infrastructure, and other sectors in the country, largely attributable to the contributions of the workforce.

During his address, Sh. Manohar Lal highlighted the historical role of artisans and craftsmen in human development, harking back to the era of Akhit Yug when civilization was in its nascent stage. He stressed the indispensable role played by workers in contemporary development and emphasized that development remains unattainable without their dedication.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister highlighted that 25 percent of workers in Haryana are engaged in the organized sector, while the remaining 75 percent work in the unorganized sector. The state government is actively involved in extending welfare benefits to unorganized sector workers through labour welfare boards and various schemes. He urged workers to make the most of these government initiatives, both at the Central and State levels, designed for their well-being.

Minister of State for Labour, Sh. Anoop Dhanak, MLAs, Sh. Nayan Pal Rawat, Sh. Jagdish Nayar, Sh. Deepak Mangla, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Sh. Anand Mohan Sharan, Vice Chancellor, Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, Dr. Raj Nehru, and Deputy Commissioner, Neha Singh also remained present on this occasion.

IEP Chandigarh

On the Chief Minister S Bhagwant Singh Mann’s directions to create industry friendly atmosphere, the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) established a Helpdesk at the head office which will operate 24X7 for the facilitation of the entrepreneurs.

Giving details the Environment and Science Technology Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer said that this Helpdesk Will guide the industries regarding obligation towards control of pollution and regulatory clearances. Two officers of the rank of Assistant Environmental Engineer (AEE) shall be available at the Helpdesk at Head Office, Patiala. The board has also started the helpline number (9914498899) for facilitation.

Meet Hayer further said that Chief Minister Punjab had invited suggestions from the general public for the promotion of the industry in the state.In compliance with the suggestion received, PPCB has established a Helpdesk at Vatavaran Bhawan, Nabha Road, Patiala which will remain operative 24X7 to guide/ facilitate the entrepreneurs of the state regarding their obligation towards control of pollution and compliance with Regulatory Clearances.

The minister said that recently the state Government organised Sarkar Sannatkaar milni to ensure direct dialogue with captains of industry to understand their needs and act accordingly. Delhi Chief Minister Sh Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann interacted with industrialists in different four cities of the state.

IEP SAS Nagar (Mohali)

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that Mohali will be developed as the gateway of the state and no stone will be left unturned for sprucing up this city further on scientific lines to facilitate the industry.

Addressing the gathering during the Sarkaar Sannatkaar milni here today, the Chief Minister said that the state government is committed for holistic development of Mohali so as to attract more and more investment here. He said that equipped with ultra modren facilities Mohali has a huge potential to be developed as industrial hub of the state.  Bhagwant Singh Mann said that once developed on ultra modren lines Mohali will lead the state so that this model of development is replicated in other parts of Punjab too.

Giving a major relief to the industrialists, the Chief Minister announced to give an Extension of one year to entrepreneurs for construction on their industrial plots. He said that this state government is committed for well being of industrialists in the state and every genuine demand of theirs will be sympathetically considered by the state government. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the purpose of the Sarkar Sannatkaar milni is to ensure direct dialogue with captains of industry to understand their needs and act accordingly.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has converted the Red Tapism prevalent during the previous governments into red carpet for the industrialists. He said that already a dedicated single window has been introduced by the state government to facilitate the industrialists. Bhagwant Singh Mann further said that taking a leap forward in this direction the state government will now issue ‘Deemed Approvals’ for new industrial units.

Asserting to develop focal points across the state as model industrial hubs, the Chief Minister said that the state government has already set the wheels into motion for this motive. He said that the state government wants to provide maximum job opportunities to the youth to reverse the trend of brain drain. Bhagwant Singh Mann also cited an example of a youngster who started a restaurant and converted into a successful entity after arrived back in India from Australia through hard work and dedication.

The Chief Minister called upon the industrialists to invest in the best as Punjab is today one of the most preferred investment destination across the globe. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he wants to give tiffin instead of drugs in the hands of youngsters. He said that this is possible only when new vistas of employment are opened for youth for which massive industrialisation should be done.

The Chief Minister said that they are open to give permissions to industrial units in maximum number but the industrialists should also promise him that they will give jobs to youth of state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab has so far attracted Investment worth Rs 50871 crore which will create 2.86 lakh jobs for youngsters.  He said that more investment will be roped in during the coming days to give boost to economic activity in the state.

Terming introduction of green stamp paper in the state as a milestone achievement, the Chief Minister said that this initiative was  bringing positive change and has considerably reduced the burden of the industries thereby saving their energy, money and time. He said that congenial atmosphere created in Punjab after the formation of AAP Government has attracted the investments in a huge number. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab is today the most peaceful state in the country due to which large number of investors want to invest in the state.

The Chief Minister said that it is matter of great pride and satisfaction that within 18 months of its tenure the state government has fulfilled major poll guarantees like Free electricity, Aam Aadmi Clinics, School of Eminence and others. Likewise, he said that several other guarantees that were not even offered to people have also been fulfilled by the state government. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is making concerted efforts for the well being of every starta of society.

The Chief Minister announced to set up 14 new Police Posts for Focal Points across the state to imbibe sense of security among the entrepreneurs. He said that the state government is already launching Sadak Surakhya force for preventing the deaths due to accidents on the national highways. Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated commitment of the Punjab government to ensure holistic development of the state and progress of its people.

Earlier the Chief Minister deliberated with Industrialists and instructed the official on the spot to redress their issues.  He said that we brought governance at the doorsteps of industrialists to redress the issues.

On this occasion Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Chief Minister if Delhi Arvind Kejriwal unveiled a book of PHD Chambers.

Prior to this the Cabinet Minister Anmol Gagan Mann, while extending words of thanks, hailed both Chief Ministers and called them as revolutionary and visionary leaders.

Chief Secretary Anurag Verma talked about the various sailent features of the Industry and Business Policy of the State.

On this ocassion Cabinet Ministers Anmol Gagan Mann and Aman Arora, MPs Raghav Chadha, Vikramjit Sawhney and Ashok Mittal, Chief Secretary Anurag Verma and others were also present.