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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.

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

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, Punjab

Grey Group and Marriott International unveil JW Marriott Ludhiana, Setting New Standards in Luxury Hospitality

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Chandigarh, November 9

Grey Group and Marriott International proudly announce the grand opening of JW Marriott Ludhiana, a landmark addition to Punjab’s luxury hospitality landscape, set to offer an unparalleled experience in sophistication and comfort. The exclusive launch event took place at JW Marriott Chandigarh, where representatives from both Grey Group and Marriott International highlighted the collaborative vision to redefine premium hospitality in the region.

JW Marriott Ludhiana stands as a premier destination with 160 elegantly designed rooms and expansive indoor and outdoor banqueting spaces, catering to discerning guests who seek a blend of luxury and world-class service. The property’s offerings include a selection of fine dining venues, a specialty restaurant, sophisticated lounge bars, and a welcoming lobby lounge, all crafted to provide a memorable stay. In addition, guests have access to a fully equipped gym, a serene spa and a luxurious swimming pool, ensuring a holistic wellness experience.

In addition, Grey Group launched an exclusive, members-only luxury club featuring world-class amenities and is planning to introduce branded luxury residences.

Inder Raj Singh, Managing Director of Grey Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to bring the JW Marriott brand to Ludhiana. This launch symbolizes our dedication to elevating luxury hospitality in the region and creating a unique experience that harmonizes world-class service with the cultural richness of Ludhiana. JW Marriott Ludhiana is poised to become a distinguished landmark for both locals and travellers, offering unparalleled quality and elegance.”

Speaking on behalf of JW Marriott, brand representatives emphasized the attention to detail in every aspect of the property, from sophisticated interiors to state-of-the-art amenities, all tailored to enhance guest experiences.

With JW Marriott Ludhiana, the brand extends its legacy of luxury and commitment to excellence, setting a new benchmark for the region’s hospitality standards. This latest addition reinforces JW Marriott’s dedication to delivering unmatched experiences, marking a significant milestone for Ludhiana’s hospitality industry.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Take steps to control spread of dengue in state, Health Minister tells officers

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Chandigarh, November 09

In view of the increasing possibility of dengue spread across the state, Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has written to Development and Panchayat Minister Sh. Krishan Lal Panwar and Urban Local Bodies Minister Sh. Vipul Goel, urging them to direct officers and employees to strengthen dengue control and fogging activities in urban and rural areas.

The Health Department is taking all necessary steps to reduce dengue cases in the state. Besides, the public is also being appealed to prevent water stagnation in and around their homes. Awareness is mandated to prevent dengue and malaria cases.

The Health Minister said it has been observed that dengue cases generally come up post-monsoon in October and fall in November. However, this year, it has been seen that there has been no significant drop in the temperature creating favourable climate conditions for the dengue spread. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to focus on strengthening dengue control activities with fogging (to kill adult mosquitoes immediately) in highly affected areas, added the minister.

To prevent dengue cases, the Health Department is conducting vector control activities and fogging around affected households. In urban areas, local bodies have been assigned the responsibility for fogging, while in rural areas, Panchayati Raj Institutions are in charge. Deputy Commissioners, relevant officers and Panchayati Raj Institutions have been directed to take interest in daily monitoring of dengue control activities and ensure effective fogging based on caseload and vector intensity in their respective areas.

Dengue is caused by the bite of the female Aedes Aegypti mosquito and mostly thrives in clean water. Efforts are being made by the Health Department to prevent the spread of dengue and make people aware about it. 

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

PGI to holds its annual conference of GI Oncology society-GIOS 2024 on Nov 8

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Chandigarh:

GI Oncology Society and the Department of Radiotherapy and oncology PGIMER Chandigarh is organizing the annual conference of the GI Oncology society-GIOS 2024 from 8th to 10th November 2024. The theme of the conference is “Bridging Horizons: Integrative Approaches to Upper Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Pancreaticobiliary Malignancies”. This conference is planned for the first time where all the stakeholders involved in the diagnosis, management and prevention of upper GI cancers are involved. On the first day of the conference there will be a workshop involving advancements in the multidisciplinary management of Hepatocellular Cancers (HCC).

The GI Oncology Group of the department in collaboration with Department of Hepatology, Department of GI surgery, HPB and liver transplantation and Department of Radiodiagnosis andImaging, have been successful in initiating various multidisciplinary options for the management of GI cancers. The theme of the conference is being selected with the same in mind as the department has also published its experience of SBRT in Hepatocellular Cancer. Also department has been on the forefront with international collaborations and has published on the recent advances in molecular pathobiology and therapeutic approaches in the management of Cholangiocarcinoma.

There will be more than 300 delegates including renowned international and national faculty to participate and deliberate on various topics related to upper GI Cancers. The galaxy of eminent scientists from Oxford Cancer Centre UK, VelindreUniversity – UK, Duke University – NHS Singapore, Khon KaenUniversity Thailand as well as eminent faculty from India in the field of Surgical Oncology, Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Gastroenterology, Immunohistopathology as well as molecular pathology will dwell upon the current issues and the controversies related to the management of GI Cancers.

On the final day of the conference, a dedicated session will focus on the formulation of a consensus panel for the management of gallbladder cancers in India. This session will bring together leading experts to discuss and establish guidelines for the effective treatment of this challenging cancer. Additionally, a public forum will be held with the theme “A Holistic Indian Perspective on Diet, Yoga, Exercise, and Spirituality for Preventing GI Cancers”. The forum will feature a diverse panel of experts from various fields, including spirituality, medicine, yoga, dietetics, and academia. Together, they will explore the role of lifestyle interventions in cancer prevention, highlighting the integration of traditional practices with modern medical approaches.

The Organizing Chairman of the conference, Prof. Rakesh Kapoor, and Organizing Secretary, Dr. Divya Khosla, shared that the key objectives of the conference will focus on raising public awareness, and enhancing the prevention and early detection of gastrointestinal cancers. They emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration in GI cancer care, driving innovation, and advancing progress in the pursuit of better outcomes and improved survival rates for GI cancer patients.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Fostering Innovation for a Self-Reliant and Sustainable India: CHASCON 2024 starts at PU

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Chandigarh:

Chandigarh Science Congress (CHASCON) 2024 started at Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, today. The conference begin with an inaugural ceremony, followed by keynote addresses from Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, Indian National Science Academy (INSA), and Ms. Shweta Khurana, Senior Director, Asia-Pacific and Japan, Global Government Affairs.

The theme of the three day Congress is “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat”. As many as 1200 academicians, scientists and researchers from various institutions and industrial houses from Chandigarh region and various other parts are participating in the conclave to exchange ideas, foster collaborations, and inspire the next generation of scientists. The Congress would conclude on November 8.

An exhibition of research activities of various institutes of Chandigarh region and departments of PU also started at the Law Auditorium ground. “Breaking the Shell and Soaring High: Startup Journeys”, a book captivating exploration into the world of entrepreneurship, showcasing the inspiring stories of eight startups that have emerged from the entrepreneurial hub of Panjab University, was also released at the inaugural ceremony.

PU Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig emphasised that technology is continuously evolving, improving the quality of our lives and offering better products with enhanced features across almost every field. This evolution presents a challenge and an opportunity, especially for young people like the students, who will work on the technologies of the future.

Addressing the students, researchers and faculty members, INSA President Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, who was the chief guest, emphasised on the need for people-centred technology and sustainability in development. He highlighted the significance of the recent geospatial policy in India that removes restrictions on surveying and mapping, potentially unlocking tremendous economic growth, as seen with initiatives like the “Swamitva” scheme, aimed at providing ownership certificates for land in rural areas.

Prof. Sharma outlined key technological priorities, including AI, IoT, and Large Language models, as essential for a self-reliant India (Viksit Bharat). He also discussed the need for disruptive innovation in India’s educational system, stating that true development requires a societal mindset that prioritises India-centric research. He said that while technology is important, society must focus on self-respect, confidence, and a critical understanding of its own strengths and weaknesses. These “three cultural pillars” — confidence, self-respect, and introspection — are crucial for fostering innovation and excellence in India’s scientific landscape. He challenged the notion that increased funding alone could drive success. Excellence in fields like theoretical sciences and mathematics, which require minimal infrastructure, remains under-realised in India due to cultural rather than financial limitations, he added.

In her address, Senior Director of Intel Corporation Ms. Shweta Khurana discussed how indigenous technologies, especially in AI, are crucial to our mission at Intel: to improve the lives of people around the globe through technology that meets their needs effectively and provides practical solutions. AI can be a force for progress, prosperity, and resilience in India, she added.

Motivating the students, Ms. Khurana said that the students as future scientists have the opportunity to lead this AI revolution. Imagine transforming India into a nation not only consuming AI but also pioneering new knowledge in AI. This impact can be profound, not only by innovating but by leading change responsibly, ethically, and sustainably, as we bridge ancient sciences with modern breakthroughs, she added.

Ms Khurana also connected the AI-enabled era mean with Viksit Bharat. Innovation goes beyond tools and technologies; it’s about creating tailored solutions for our unique challenges. It can foster local communities, create employment, and strengthen India’s global position in AI. Imagine AI-powered solutions that help farmers analyse soil health and maximise crop yields at a fraction of the cost. Frugal AI can enable such advancements, making technology accessible, affordable, and available for those who might otherwise be left out of the digital revolution, she further added.

Prof. Y. K. Rawal, Coordinator of the conference highlighted the origin and significance of CHASCON in bringing together distinguished scientists, innovators, and young researchers. The Inaugural function ended with the vote of thanks by Prof Sonal Singhal, Co-Coordinator, CHASCON-2024.

Chandigarh, Punjab

SUGARCANE CRUSHING IN PUNJAB TO BEGIN FROM NOVEMBER 25

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Chandigarh, November 6

          The Punjab Government has announced that sugarcane crushing in the state will begin from November 25, 2024 onwards.

          This decision was made during a meeting of the State Sugarcane Control Board, chaired by Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian at his office, on Wednesday.

Khudian said that Punjab has witnessed a 5% increase in the area under sugarcane crop. This year, sugarcane crop has been cultivated on 1 lakh hectares area, which is up from around 95,000 hectares previous year. There are 15 sugar mills in Punjab, comprising nine cooperative and six private mills, which are expected to crush around 700 lakh quintals of sugarcane. The state is projected to produce 62 lakh quintals of sugar this season, he added.

          The Agriculture Minister directed the concerned officials to ensure that all arrangements are in place before the commencement of crushing operations, while emphasising that farmers should not face any inconvenience in selling their produce and timely payments should also be made to them.