CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR/JALANDHAR, January 20:

          In order to ensure peaceful celebrations of forthcoming Republic Day-2025 as mandated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on Monday issued directives to heighten security measures, increase police presence and intensify night domination operations across the state.

          The DGP accompanied by Special DGP Internal Security RN Dhoke, ADGP Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Nilabh Kishore and ADGP Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Promod Ban visited Amritsar and Jalandhar to chair Law and Order Review Meetings with the officers of Commissionerates— Amritsar and Jalandhar, and Police Ranges— Border, Jalandhar and Ludhiana. He also reviewed the ongoing Counter-Terror Operations, Action against Drug Trafficking and Action against Organised Crime.

          “Security arrangements were reviewed and suitable instructions have been given to maintain peace and harmony by ensuring police presence at all important places, intensify domination operations and other preventive and detective measures ahead of Republic Day celebrations,” said DGP Gaurav Yadav.

          He said that as part of the heightened security, police personnel will conduct regular patrols and checks, particularly at night, to prevent any potential threats or disruptions. The night domination operations will also involve the deployment of additional police forces in sensitive areas, including border districts, to maintain law and order, he added.

          He said that all the CPs/SSPs have also been instructed to keep a close watch on suspicious activities and individuals, and to take prompt action in case of any security breaches. “I’ve mandated all the officers to not let anyone take the law into their hands and if any person was found indulged in any violent activities should be dealt with firmly and FIR should be registered immediately,” he said.

          The DGP also directed CPs/SSPs to increase the Police Checkpoints in their respective jurisdictions and ensure the checking of a maximum number of vehicles at every Naka, which will help in curtailing terrorist and criminal activities.

          He also asked the police officers to focus on issuing Look Out Circulars (LoC), Red Corner Notices (RCNs), Open Arrest Warrants, Blue Corner Notices (BCNs) and Extradition Proposals for bringing back wanted criminals from abroad to face justice.

          IGP Ludhiana Range Dhanpreet Kaur, CP Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, CP Jalandhar Swapan Sharma, DIG Border Range Satinder Singh, DIG Jalandhar Range Naveen Singla, SSP Amritsar Rural Charanjit Singh, SSP Gurdaspur Harish Dayama, SSP Batala Suhail Qasim Mir, SSP Jalandhar Rural Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh, SSP Kapurthala Gaurav Toora, SSP Hoshiarpur Surendra Lamba, SSP SBS Nagar Mehtab Singh, SSP Khanna Ashwini Gotyal and SSP Khanna Navneet Singh Bains were among other officers/officials who attended the meetings.

Chandigarh, January 20:

          The Punjab Raj Bhavan today resonated with the cultural as well as the musical vibes of Punjab and Kazakhstan as a mesmerizing and soulful musical Evening was held at the premises.

          Terming it as an extremely auspicious occasion for the Punjab Raj Bhavan, the Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria appreciated the untiring efforts made by the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, Punjab, for organizing and ensuring that this event turns out to be a stupendous success.

          Heartily welcoming the artists of Kazakhstan, the Governor said that Music always spreads happiness and is a great medium for carrying forward cultures and civilizations and is above the barriers of language.

          The Governor further added that this spell binding Evening has cemented the cultural bond between Punjab and Kazakhstan thus bringing together both.

          Calling Punjab a land that has made great sacrifices, Gulab Chand Kataria further pointed out that Punjab has bestowed great cultural legacy on next generations.

          In this landmark event celebrating international friendship and cultural exchange, Punjab welcomed an esteemed cultural troupe from Kazakhstan. This initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to foster cross-cultural ties while showcasing its tourism potential on the global stage. Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond while addressing the event emphasized Punjab’s rich heritage and efforts to position the state as a global cultural hub.

          Minister Sond extended invitation to the people around the world to discover the beauty, diversity, and soul of Punjab. “Together, let us celebrate cultural understanding, elevate Punjab’s tourism potential, and create a future where global friendships thrive,” he said.

          Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is undertaking key initiatives to elevate its tourism sector and attract global visitors. These initiatives include Infrastructure Development, Improved connectivity, enhanced safety measures, and world-class hospitality services to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Heritage Promotion through focused efforts to showcase iconic landmarks like the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, Jallianwala Bagh etc and Punjab’s lush wetlands and agricultural landscapes through village tourism also occupies a prime slot in the scheme of things of Punjab Government. Promoting sustainable tourism by encouraging eco-friendly practices and active community participation is also under prime focus.

          Sond expressed confidence that these initiatives will position Punjab as a preferred destination for both domestic and international tourists, offering them a blend of tradition and modernity.

          He extended warm welcome to all the artists from Kazakhstan to immerse themselves in the vibrant heritage of this land. This evening’s cultural performances beautifully exemplify how music, dance, and art transcend barriers, uniting humanity in a shared celebration of creativity and harmony.

          He added, Punjab is the land of vibrant traditions and timeless heritage and has long been a shining beacon and the pivot of Indian civilization. Known for its soulful music, rhythmic dances like Bhangra and Giddha, and the globally cherished flavors of Punjabi cuisine, the state offers a unique cultural experience to every visitor. Iconic dishes such as sarson ka saag, makki di roti, and lassi have become synonymous with Punjab’s warmth and hospitality.

          Sond said that Punjab is not just a destination; it is an experience where history, tradition, and modernity come together. This cultural exchange with Kazakhstan highlights the shared appreciation between the two regions for traditions, art, and family values. This event is not just a celebration of art and culture but a reaffirmation of universal harmony and mutual respect between nations.  It underscores Punjab’s vision of building bridges across borders and promoting global harmony.

          The event witnessed a mesmerizing fusion of cultures as Kazakh artists captivated the audience with their enchanting traditional dances and soul-stirring music, leaving an indelible mark on hearts. Complementing their performance, Punjabi troupes showcased the vibrant heritage of Punjab through electrifying displays of Bhangra, and other traditional dances that brought the stage to life.

          The cultural extravaganza was graced by the presence of Chief Secretary Punjab KAP Sinha, Chief Secretary Chandigarh Rajiv Verma, ACS to Governor K. Siva Prasad, Secretary Tourism Malwinder Singh Jaggi and Director Amrit Singh, adding significance to this memorable evening of artistic exchange.

Moga, January 19:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday laid the foundation stone of expansion of the District Administrative Complex (DAC) by constructing the third and fourth floor of the building at a cost of Rs 10.31 crore.

The Chief Minister said that it is a red letter day in the history of district as construction of additional two storey of Block B in DAC has commenced today. He said that the DAC building consisting of four blocks viz. A block, B block, C block and D block were constructed in 2004. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in order to ease the space crunch being faced by various offices and to shift some government offices that are being run from other places, additional two storeys are being constructed.

The Chief Minister said that the project will be completed in around eight months by August this year. He said that total of 48 rooms will be constructed on both the floors and there will be provision of separate toilet blocks for gents and ladies on both the floors. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that new lift with a carrying capacity of 13 persons will be installed in the complex adding that both the floors will have CCTV camera system for safety and security.

The Chief Minister said that this ultra modern building will also be equipped with fire Detection/Emergency evacuation and Public Address system. He also said that a 95 KW Solar Power Generation System will be installed in the building for adequate use of renewable energy. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the previous governments had hardly paid any heed towards such initiatives to serve the people in a better manner.

The Chief Minister said that earlier the reigns of the state were in the wrong hands earlier due to which the state had suffered adversely. However, he said that ever since assuming the charge of office his government has been according top priority to such works of immense public importance. Bhagwant Singh Mann that such buildings are being constructed while keeping in-view the future needs of people.

Patiala/Chandigarh, January 19

Under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, with the leadership and special efforts of Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and the dedicated endeavors of PRTC Chairman Ranjodh Singh Hadana, the salaries of 1148 employees, who have been working continuously for over a year, have been increased by ₹2500 along with an additional 10% hike. 

It is noteworthy that a meeting between the PRTC Contract Workers union under the leadership of Ranjodh Singh Hadana  held with Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar. During the meeting, officials including Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) D.K. Tiwari, MD Bikramjit Singh Shergill, GM Maninderjit Singh Sidhu and other senior officials were present. 

Speaking on the occasion, Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar emphasized, “A nation progresses when its citizens are happy.” With this vision, the Punjab government is committed to introducing unique initiatives to enhance the quality of life for its employees. Bhullar stated that the salary increment proposal was presented during the Board of Directors meeting, where it is unanimously approved. Copies of the directive have been issued to seven departments. 

Additionally, a consensus was reached to frame a policy for regularizing employees under service rules and the related file will be sent to the Advocate General of Punjab. A follow-up meeting will be held with senior officials and unions to finalize the policy. 

Minister Bhullar further stated that the primary demands of contract employees, particularly salary uniformity, were discussed in a previous meeting held at the Chief Minister’s office in Chandigarh. The government, under CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, agreed on uniform salaries and assured the resolution of other demands such as adding new buses to the corporation, regularizing contract workers, removing employees from the waiting list for active duties and increasing commissions for advance bookers. 

Chairman Ranjodh Singh Hadana, during his address, highlighted that PRTC has increased wages for drivers by ₹2500 and and this ratio other employees a further 30% increment to according to Punjab Roadways. Employees hired after September 15, 2021, were earlier given only minimum wages. To address this disparity, the Board of Directors has decided to increase their wages by ₹2500 and an additional 10%, applicable only to those continuously working for over a year. This increment in wages will be prospective and no arrears of any kind will be paid.

Prominent members of the PRTC Azad Union, including State General Secretary Manjinder Kumar Babbu Sharma, Patron Gurdhyan Singh Bhanra, Gurpal Singh Sangrur and Khushwinder Singh Budhla, also participated in the meeting.

Ludhiana/Chandigarh, January 19

          People from all walks of life today paid last tributes to the late Gurpreet Bassi Gogi, MLA from Ludhiana West who passed away on Jan 10, during his Bhog and antim ardas at Gurudwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha in Model Town Extension locality on Sunday.

          Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Hardeep Singh Mundian, Punjab CM’s Wife Dr Gurpreet Kaur and several leaders across party lines remembered Gogi for his lifelong commitment to public service.

          In their address, they added that MLA Gogi was a source of inspiration and motivation for society. They said that presence of people from all walks of life, who have converged here on the Bhog and Antim Ardas of MLA Gogi, reflects how much he was respected by the people in the region.                          

          They added that Gogi was a hardworking, dedicated and committed colleague. They stated that it was a huge personal loss for them and an irreparable loss for the Aam Aadmi party, as Gogi was a committed foot soldier of the party.

          On behalf of the family, MLA Gogi’s son Swaraj thanked everyone for standing rock solid with the family.