All posts by admin

MEET HAYER STRONGLY CONDEMNS EXCLUSION OF MOHALI TO HOST CRICKET WORLD CUP MATCHES

IEP Chandigarh, June 28

      While strongly condemning the exclusion of Mohali from the list of host cities in the schedule released today for the ODI Cricket World Cup-2023 to be held in India in the month of October-November this year, Punjab Sports Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer has described this decision as being motivated by political reasons.          In a press communiqué released here today, Meet Hayer said that the exclusion of World Cup matches is open discrimination against Punjab as it is the first time after the construction of PCA Stadium Mohali that the World Cup is being held in India and no match is taking place at Mohali. He said that in 1996 and 2011 the World Cup Semi Finals were played at Mohali, but this time not even a single league match has been allotted to Punjab. Apart from the opening and Final matches, Ahmedabad also gets to host the India-Pakistan match.          Meet Hayer said that PCA Stadium Mohali is not only one of the top five stadiums in India but also comes in the list of prominent stadiums in the world. Mohali is always the first choice of cricket fans. Discrimination against Punjab will not be tolerated at any cost. He said that the State Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will raise the issue of this discrimination and open injustice with the BCCI.          The Sports Minister further said that Mohali has an international airport and the city also has better infrastructure and adequate hotels for the teams to stay. Holding the match at Mohali would give a big boost to sports tourism with the arrival of sports lover tourists from across the country and abroad sure to boost the economy of the State. 

VIGILANCE BUREAU NABS CLERK POSTED AT SDM OFFICE MALERKOTLA FOR SAFEKEEPING RS 5 LAKH BRIBE AMOUNT

IEP Chandigarh, June 27

After the arrest of Kanoongo Vijaypal Singh for accepting bribe of Rs 5 lakh, the Economic Offences Wing (EoW) of Vigilance Bureau (VB), Ludhiana on Tuesday has nabbed a clerk posted at SDM Malerkotla office identified as Rohit Sharma alias Rohit Kumar for safekeeping of the amount after taking from the former.Notably, EoW of VB had arrested Kanoongo Vijaypal for accepting bribe of Rs 5 lakh in two instalments from complainant Karamjit Singh resident of village Bhaini Kalan in lieu of getting family partition (Khangi Takseem) of his land done and provides compensation of the land acquired for a road.Divulging more details, an official spokesperson of the VB said that following the investigations into this case the VB has found the involvement of Clerk Rohit Sharma, who is posted as a reader with SDM Malerkotla for receiving the amount from accused Kanoongo for its safekeeping.He said that the accused clerk has been arrested and further investigations are on.Meanwhile, the case FIR no. 2 dated 23-02-2023 had already been registered under section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act at Police Station Economic Offences Wing, Vigilance Bureau, Ludhiana.

PUNJAB ALL SET TO ROLL OUT U-WIN TO DIGITISE UNIVERSAL IMMUNISATION PROGRAMME IN State

IEP Chandigarh, June 28

      Following the success of digitisation of the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in two districts— Hoshiarpur and SBS Nagar— of the state, Punjab Health Department is all set to roll out the U-WIN— a digital platform for UIP, in all the districts of Punjab from coming August.          The pilot programme had remained a huge success with both the districts having been able to achieve the desired targets by registering 92% session sites on board, while, 102% newborns were registered against pregnancy outcomes, and 90% of registered newborns were provided birth doses of vaccines through this digital platform.          Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh, while congratulating the health staff for achieving this another milestone, emphasised that providing world-class healthcare facilities and best possible health related services to the people of Punjab is the mandate of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.          The Health Minister, who joined via video conference, was addressing the two days state-level Workshop of Training of Trainers for U-WIN commenced here on Tuesday. All the District Immunization Officers, Vaccine Cold Chain Managers from all the districts of Punjab are participating in this workshop, which will conclude on Wednesday. After getting training, these trainers will further impart training to the concerned health staff in their respective districts for a successful roll out of the U-WIN platform.          Pertinently, Immunization has been a proven and cost effective strategy to prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases and UIP in Punjab covers 11 diseases and aims to reach over 437000 newborns and 480000 pregnant women every year.          As of now, this vaccination programme is being conducted in manual form and with execution of the U-WIN platform from August, all the data pertaining to vaccination will be digitised on the lines of Co-WIN. The CO-WIN platform has been very successful in India for covid vaccination in the pandemic times. With digitalisation the benefits not only include improvement in record keeping, it also empowers the beneficiaries and with increase in vaccination coverage contributes to better public health outcomes.          Underlining the benefits of U-WIN platform, the Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Vivek Pratap Singh said that this digitalisation will be of tremendous help as it will help in reducing the workload of the health staff as unnecessary time in preparation of reports will be considerably saved because online record-keeping of data will help in auto generation of required reports.          The beneficiaries will also be empowered through this portal as they will be able to register and book their vaccination, while sitting at their homes at any of their nearby session sites, he said, while clarifying that on-site registration of the beneficiaries will also be available in this portal.          Secretary Health cum MD NHM Dr Abhinav Trikha stated that U-WIN platform will also enable beneficiaries to download their vaccination certificates and reminders in form of text messages will also be sent on their mobile to keep them up to date about their upcoming vaccinations, follow-up of dropouts and planning of RI sessions. “Vaccine acknowledgment and immunisation card linked to the Ayushman Bharat Health Account ID (ABHA ID) will be generated for pregnant women and children,” he added, insisting on the popularisation of ABHA ID for every citizen.          Director Health and Family Welfare Dr Adarshpal Kaur asked participants to ensure successful implementation of U-WIN.          During the training workshop, Project Officers UNDP Dr Seema Garg, Dr Meet Dipinder Singh, Upkar Singh and Amritpal Singh were felicitated for their commendable role in successful implementation of U-WIN in the two Pilot districts.          On this occasion, State Immunization Officer Dr Balwinder Kaur, SPO UNDP Dr Manisha Mandal ,Dr Sonika and other officials were also present.

BIG BONANZA FOR 12700 NEWLY REGULARISED TEACHERS AS CM ANNOUNCES UPTO THREE TIME HIKE IN THEIR SALARIES AND OTHER BENEFITS

IEP Chandigarh, June 28

 In a major gift to the 12700 contractual teachers who’s service has been regularised recently by the state government, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday announced upto three time increase in their emoluments and other benefits of the government job after regularisation of m services. Announcing this today, the Chief Minister said that these teachers will be known as Associate Teachers, Special Inclusive Teachers and others adding that they will be governed by ‘Policy for Welfare of Adhoc, Contractual, Temporary Teachers (Nation Builders) and other employees in School Education Department’. He said that based on their educational qualifications and primary conditions for entry into services their emoluments have been fixed upto completion of 58 years in service. Bhagwant Mann said that these teachers will be entitled for an annual increment of 5% on their salaries every year. Divulging more details, the Chief Minister said that BA pass Education Provider (Associate Teachers) who were hitherto getting Rs 9500 will now get Rs 20500 as emolument whereas such teachers with ETT and NTT qualification will get Rs 22000 as compared to salary of Rs 10250 at present. Similarly, he said that such teachers with BA/ MA B Ed degrees who are now getting Rs 11000 as salary will now get emolument worth Rs 23500. Bhagwant Mann said that IEV Volunteers who are till now getting salary worth Rs 5500 will now get emolument of Rs 15,000. The Chief Minister further said that Education Volunteers who have been till yet getting salary of Rs 3500 will now get Rs 15,000 adding that EGS, EIE and STR teachers getting emolument worth Rs 6000 will now get Rs 18,000. He said that this is a landmark decision of the state government which will ensure the holistic development of these teachers. Bhagwant Mann said that these teachers have rendered service of more than 10 years in Education department after which the state government has regularised their services whereas the earlier governments had just done lip service on the issue.

TEACHERS EXPRESS GRATITUDE TO CM FOR HISTORIC DECISION OF SALARY HIKE

IEP Chandigarh, June 28

 A delegation of teachers today called on the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to express their gratitude for historic decision of the state government to enhance the salaries of the newly regularised teachers. Welcoming the decision, the teachers apprised the Chief Minister that the except lip service the previous governments didn’t do anything to safeguard their interests. On the other hand, they said that that the Bhagwant Mann government has given a huge gift to the teachers firstly by regularising their services and now with a salary hike. They said that the entire teaching fraternity is indebted to the Chief Minister for this historic decision. The delegation further said that 12700 teachers of the state will be benefitted from this path breaking initiative of the state government. They said that the state government has delivered what it had promised. They said that this path breaking initiative will go a long way in further revolutionising the education sector in the state.  “We welcome this decision. The Mann government has given us a huge gift in form if salary hike” said Kuldeep Singh.  “I have been working as a teacher since 2006. Earlier we used to get only ₹10000 per month, and it was very difficult to run our household with that little money. The government has increased it to ₹22000. It will ease our lives and allow us to live our lives with dignity and pride”- Maninder Rana  “The previous governments did not give us our rights, on the contrary, they meted out injustice to us. But the Mann government fulfilled its promise made to us in just fifteen months. We thank Mann government for this historic decision.”  – Ajmer Singh Aulakh

Haryana CM announces monthly mobile allowance upto Rs 400 for police personnel

IEP Chandigarh, June 27

On the occasion of International Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Manohar Lal addressed the Haryana Police, urging them to intensify their efforts and wage a resolute war against the menace of drugs in the state.He was addressing SHOs, CIA in-charges, MHCs, and personnel from different police units, including the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (HSNCB), during an interactive session organized at the Indradhanush Auditorium here today. It is for the first time in the country when a Chief Minister directly interact with SHOs, MHCs and IOs on the drug issue.The Chief Minister commended the police force for their relentless dedication and emphasized the need for collective action to combat drug abuse.During the event, he announced a maximum 20 daily allowance in a month to all police officials at par with those posted in police stations. He also announced monthly mobile allowance of Rs 200 for Constables and Head Constables, Rs 250 for ASIs, 300 to SIs and Rs 400 for Inspectors. In addition, CM also announced that Rs 3000 per month would be given to munshis of police stations for hospitality purposes.On this occasion, the Chief Minister launched the Prahari App of Haryana Police. He also unveiled the insignia of Haryana Police and adorned it on the uniform of the Director General of Police, Haryana.The Chief Minister expressed his deep concern over the growing drug-related problems and the detrimental impact they have on the youth and society as a whole. He highlighted the need for a multi-pronged approach that encompasses strict law enforcement, community engagement, and proactive measures to prevent drug trafficking and consumption.He also stressed the importance of bringing affected youth back to the mainstream and safeguarding children from the dangers of drug addiction, thereby preventing them from engaging in criminal activities.Appreciating the efforts of the Haryana Police in effectively controlling drug traffickers, the Chief Minister highlighted their successful actions in apprehending individuals involved in drug trafficking and uncovering networks associated with the trade. He also applauded the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau for their coordinated efforts with field units, leading to the arrest of drug peddlers and the recovery of substantial quantities of narcotics.The Chief Minister also highlighted the success of ‘Operation Dhawst’ against drug peddlers which is being operative in June. He also stressed the importance of raising awareness about the detrimental impact of drugs and urged for maximum dissemination of information to educate society about the ill effects of drug abuse.Calling upon the police officers and personnel to unite in their respective areas to address drug abuse comprehensively and sensitively, the Chief Minister expressed confidence in their ability to guide the youth towards a drug-free future through determination and courage.During the event, Home Minister Sh. Anil Vij highlighted the critical role of the youth in the progress and future of a country and emphasized the need to prevent them from falling into drug addiction. He underscored the problems caused by illegal drug trafficking and misuse, including harm to health, social instability, and increased crime rates. He called for unity and collective efforts to overcome this issue.DGP Haryana Sh. P.K. Agrawal welcomed the Chief Minister and Home Minister and stressed the comprehensive approach required to combat narcotics, involving education, rehabilitation, and active community participation. He emphasized the importance of educating youth about the dangers of drug addiction, highlighting the need for a drug-free future. He expressed the government’s determination to take action against drug abuse and illegal trafficking.The event was attended by other dignitaries including ACS Home Sh. T.V.S.N. Parsad, and senior police officers.During the interactive session, IG HSNCB Amitabh Dhillon gave a presentation on the bureau’s functioning.

Haryana Chief Minister to Honor 15 Heroes for Rescuing Woman Stranded in Ghaggar River

IEP Chandigarh June 27

In a remarkable act of bravery and compassion, Haryana Chief Minister, Mr. Manohar Lal today announced a reward for 15 individuals who valiantly rescued a woman trapped in the Ghaggar river at Panchkula yesterday. The incident unfolded on June 25, at approximately 9:30 am, when Mrs. Sangeeta Bajaj, a 69-year-old resident of Panchkula, stranded along with her car while performing a religious ritual in river Ghaggar.  As the water level rapidly rose, the woman and her car were swept away in the river. However, the unwavering efforts of 15 individuals, including 14 men and 1 woman, who were present near Khadak Mongoli village rescued the woman’s life.To recognize their heroic act, the Chief Minister will honour these courageous individuals with a total cash prize of Rs. 3,15,000, along with a citation. The names of the valiant individuals who played a crucial role in rescuing Mrs. Sangeeta Bajaj are Vikram, Kishan, Sonu, Sunil, Pappu Kumar, Chhote Lal, Rashpal Singh Chauhan, Salim, Mahendra, Jitendra, Sanju, Ranjit, Anil, Bablu, and Mamta.This heartwarming incident serves as a shining example of the unwavering courage and community spirit that exists within the people of Haryana. The Chief Minister’s commendation shows the state’s commitment to recognize and honour acts of bravery, inspiring others to come forward and make a difference in the lives of their fellow citizens. 

Minister’s Flying Squad catches three conductors defrauding govt exchequer, Transport Minister orders strict action

IEP Chandigarh, June 27

     The Minister’s Flying Squad, constituted by Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, caught three conductors for swindling government exchequer and passengers. Among them, one conductor had cheated the passengers of about Rs.1200, while another conductor has been reported in two embezzlement cases in two days.          Divulging further details, Transport Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that during the checking at Khanna, the flying squad checked Bus No. PB-02-EG 4728 of Tarn Taran Depot, wherein conductor Jaskaran Singh was found guilty of not issuing tickets to passengers despite collecting Rs.1170 from them. This bus was bound to Tarn Taran from Delhi. Similarly, during the checking of Bus No. PB-10-HT 2834 of Ludhiana Depot at Haidon, conductor Sanjay Kumar was found to have misappropriated Rs.615, which he collected from the passengers but did not give them tickets in return. One day ago, conductor Sanjay Kumar had caused a financial loss of Rs.283 to the department by not collecting adda fee of three buses, due to which he was replaced and deputed on the bus.          As part of the series of checks in other states, the Cabinet Minister said that the Minister’s Flying Squad conducted checking at Banikhet in Himachal Pradesh, from where conductor Manjit Singh of Bus No. PB-02-EG 0964 of Amritsar-1 Depot has been reported for collecting Rs.490 from passengers and not issuing tickets for the same amount.          S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that apart from this, two buses have also been reported for plying on unscheduled routes during the checking on Phagwara bypass. He said, Bus No. PB-08-EX 0976 of Jalandhar-1 depot and Bus No. PB-07-BQ 5442 of SBS Nagar Depot were carrying only 9 and 6 passengers, respectively due to operating on unscheduled route. The Transport Minister directed the higher authorities for disciplinary action against the reported drivers and conductors. 

Drug supplier is a bigger criminal than the drug addict – Kanwar Pal

IEP Chandigarh, June 27

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was observed across the world today. In this series, School Education Minister, Sh. Kanwar Pal motivated the youth of Haryana to stay away from drugs and flagged off an awareness rally at Mukund Lal District Civil Hospital premises in Yamunanagar today. The School Education Minister also administered drug free oath to the people present in the programme.He said that drug peddlers cannot be treated as individual criminals but as people infecting the entire society. The menace of drugs is spoiling society. Therefore, to ensure a drug-free society, social organisations should put up a collective effort and work in tandem with the government to defeat the negative forces emanating from the abuse of drugsHe said that social organisations should work dedicatedly to create awareness about the vicious cycle of drugs and the harm they are inflicting on society. He said that youth should channelise their energies through sports and physical activities.Sh. Kanwar Pal said that the movement against drugs will be strengthened only when people from society will come together and pledge to eliminate this societal ill.   Today’s youth is the leader of tomorrow. Development of the nation would be assured if youth is given the right direction, he added.

Haryana Government takes significant steps towards environment protection and waste management: CS

IEP Chandigarh, June 27

The Haryana Government is taking significant strides towards ensuring the scientific handling and disposal of municipal solid waste, hazardous waste, biomedical waste, and enforcing a ban on single-use plastics in the state. This was stated by the Haryana Chief Secretary, Mr. Sanjeev Kaushal, during a one-day training programme focusing on the implementation of District Environment Plans held at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration in Gurugram today.The training programme was inaugurated by the Chairman of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel. Dr. M M Kutty, Chairperson of CAQM, Mrs. Urvashi Gulati, Former Chief Secretary of Haryana, Mr. Vineet Garg, Additional Chief Secretary of Environment, Forest and Wildlife, Mr. P. Raghavendra Rao, Chairman of HSPCB, and Mrs. Chandralekha Mukherjee, Director General of HIPA were also present during the training programme.Mr. Kaushal said that as per the directives of the NGT, all Deputy Commissioners of the state have been sensitized to prepare District Environment Plans, which encompass various thematic areas such as solid waste management, air quality, industrial wastewater treatment, water quality, mining activity and noise pollution. The plans will be uploaded on the Environment Department’s website. These comprehensive plans will play a vital role in addressing environmental challenges and ensuring compliance with environmental norms, thus contributing to sustainable development and progress of the state, he added.To ensure the efficient utilization of environment compensation funds collected from violating units, a high-powered committee has been constituted which will undertake environment restoration activities as outlined in the District Environment Plans, he added.While expressing his confidence in the dedication and commitment of all the Deputy Commissioners and senior district-level officers present at the training programme, he encouraged the officers to approach the programme with utmost seriousness, as the lectures and sessions covering various environment-related topics will equip them with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively implement the identified activities in the District Environment Plan.Furthermore, Mr. Kaushal urged all Deputy Commissioners to share their best practices, seek clarification on any doubts, and provide valuable suggestions during the technical sessions. The experts present on the occasion interacted with the officers to address their queries and enhance their understanding.Mr. Kaushal further said that Haryana Government remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable development. By implementing the District Environment Plans and working collaboratively, we can create a cleaner, greener, and healthier future for our state, he added.