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A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart.

Haryana

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, a boon for helpless people

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IEP Chandigarh, February 3

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) being implemented by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, provides free treatment for diseases of helpless families. Under this scheme, each family is provided with free health insurance of up to Rs 5 lakh per year. The PMJAY has proved to be a boon for the helpless people.

Sharing information in this regard an official spokesperson said that the state government has expanded the scheme and started the Chirayu Yojana Haryana for the health welfare of the citizens of the state under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. With the help of the Chirayu Yojana, poor families can get free treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh and under the Chirayu Yojana.

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana started in 2018 with the aim of providing health benefits to the underprivileged ones. Earlier, only BPL families with income up to Rs 1.80 lakh were eligible for the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. To ensure the scheme’s full advantage, the state government decided to provide health benefits to families with incomes of up to Rs 3 lakh. Such families can provide health benefits to the entire family by paying a very low monthly charge of Rs 1500 per year. As a result, the government is now providing assistance to around 30 lakh families under this initiative.

He said that under the Chirayu Yojana, new members can join by providing their birth or marriage certificates. The scheme is completely cashless, and beneficiaries can receive free treatment by showing their Ayushman Bharat card at empaneled private or government hospitals. To get an Ayushman Bharat card, beneficiaries can visit any Atal Seva Kendra or health centre with their Parivar Pehchan Patra or Aadhaar card. Notably, during the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, efforts were made to create Chirayu cards in every village.

He mentioned the unique feature of portability in this scheme, meaning patients from the state can avail free treatment at panels of private or government hospitals in any other state. The government not only provides free treatment but also focuses on ensuring quality treatment.

Haryana

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar releases book “9 Incredible Years of Haryana Government: Emergence of a New and Vibrant Haryana”

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IEP Chandigarh, February 3

Vice President of India, Sh Jagdeep Dhankhar today released a book titled “9 Incredible Years of Haryana Government: Emergence of a New and Vibrant Haryana” at Surajkund, Faridabad. The event also witnessed the presence of Haryana Governor, Sh Bandaru Dattatraya, Chief Minister, Sh Manohar Lal and several other distinguished guests.

After releasing the book, the Vice President, in his address, described the state of Haryana as a role model for the country. He said that the work done in Haryana regarding system change and good governance, in accordance with the visionary thinking of Chief Minister Shri Manohar Lal, was not easy. Reforming the system was difficult because, while undertaking such endeavors, the first individuals to challenge you are those in your immediate surroundings. They question why you have assumed power, why you are altering political norms ingrained over decades, and if you do not provide employment opportunities for your constituents, who will support us. However, Sh Manohar Lal regarded the entirety of Haryana as his family and pursued the task of systemic transformation. He emphasized that this message resonated not only within Haryana but across the entire country. Today, the ‘Transparent-Accountable-Honest Recruitment Process’ of Haryana State is a topic of discussion nationwide. He further highlighted that Haryana excels in numerous fields, including agriculture, sports, and defense services. The farmers and soldiers of Haryana have consistently strived to uphold our national pride.

Describing Sh Manohar Lal’s seven principles of good governance – Shiksha, Swasthya, Suraksha, Swabhiman, Swavlamban, Sushasan, and Sewa – as Satvik, he said that these principles are indispensable for upholding democratic values.

Sh Dhankhar remarked that India is undergoing a profound transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi. He emphasized that the vision embedded within our cultural heritage is vividly reflected in our current progress, portraying today as a glorious era for India. This pivotal period lays the robust groundwork for India’s future, ensuring that by the time India commemorates its 100 years of independence in 2047, it will emerge as a developed nation.

He stated that just a decade ago, the country was known by ‘scams’ and a faltering economy. However, today, India has ascended to become the fifth-largest superpower globally, surpassing countries like Canada, England and France. Within the next 2-3 years, India will ascend to the position of the third-largest superpower in the world, surpassing Japan and Germany, he added.

Sh Dhankhar highlighted that there was a time when corruption prevailed in every aspect of government, necessitating the involvement of middlemen for any work to be accomplished. Today the culture of middlemen has been eradicated entirely. He commended the significant ecosystem that our youth are currently benefiting from, which has strengthened their confidence and propelled them to unprecedented heights based on their achievements.

The Vice President lauded Sh Rajesh Khullar, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and said that his lecture would be conducted as a source of motivation on Sansad TV.

The book, which illustrates the development narrative of Haryana, is poised to become the new history of Haryana – Governor Bandaru Dattatraya

During the book release ceremony, Haryana Governor Sh Bandaru Dattatraya expressed pride in the developmental changes witnessed by the people of Haryana over the past nine years. He noted that due to this sustained development, future generations will always cherish these transformative moments. The Governor highlighted that Haryana has now emerged as one of the leading states in the country, attributing this progress to the government’s commitment to equitable development, corruption-free governance, and transparency, guided by the principle of “Haryana Ek-Haryanvi Ek.” He said that Haryana’s global recognition is growing steadily as it continues to innovate and progress.

Describing the book focusing on the nine remarkable years of the Haryana government as a testament to the state’s track record, the Governor praised Chief Minister Manohar Lal’s leadership style, hailing him as a dedicated and genuine public servant. He reiterated that the Chief Minister considers the entire state as his family and diligently fulfils his responsibilities.

The Governor said that this book, which illustrates the development narrative of Haryana, is poised to become the new history of Haryana. He emphasized the importance of disseminating the book to rural areas, ensuring that people understand the government’s ongoing efforts for their welfare.

Improving lives of citizens by advancing Good Governance and Antyodaya – Manohar Lal

Chief Minister Sh. Manohar Lal said that the book ‘9 Incredible Years of Haryana Government’ encapsulates perspectives from individuals occupying various positions in politics, education, social work, administration and the judiciary. Notably, insightful contributions from intellectuals regarding the state government’s initiatives for the nation and society are also featured in the book. Reflecting on his nine-year tenure, he underscored the government’s focus on addressing grassroots realities and resolving people’s issues. Guided by the principles of good governance and Antyodaya, the government has endeavored to improve the lives of the state’s residents.

Emphasizing the rejection of the three Cs – crime, corruption, and caste-based politics, Sh Manohar Lal highlighted the realization of the ethos of ‘Haryana ek-Haryanvi ek.’ Referring to the seven S as the aim of his vision, he said that today a system based on – Shiksha, Swasthya, Suraksha, Swabhiman, Swavlamban, Sushasan, and Sewa – has been established in the state.

Additionally, he reminisced about his experiences working alongside Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, noting the Prime Minister’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the nation’s interests. Sh Manohar Lal pledged to uphold this ethos, ensuring a continued focus on public service in the state. He extended his gratitude to Vice President Sh Jagdeep Dhankhar for releasing the book.

The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi used to say that whatever you feel is good for public interest, start it. If it’s detrimental, abandon it, if it’s beneficial, persist, Modi ji used to grant such freedom. Referring to Sh Modi as a ‘prayogdharmi’, the Chief Minister highlighted the positive changes and initiatives undertaken over the past nine years to steer the country on the path of unprecedented development. He said that while a political leader can outline goals, it’s the administrative officers who execute the action plan to realize those objectives effectively. The Chief Minister said that the ideology he has been associated with, the individual is not primary but the ideology is primary. On the basis of this ideology, we are moving forward and continuously engaged in public service.

Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sh Rajesh Khullar also provided detailed information about the content and concept of the book. He mentioned that through this book, it will also be understood how a new and vibrant Haryana has emerged as a result of a good governance system. He highlighted that Haryana Chief Minister Sh Manohar Lal has worked to reform the system during his tenure, serving the entire people of Haryana in the form of servant leadership. Sh Khullar appreciated the efforts made to make Haryana a leading state by implementing significant changes in various government welfare schemes. He noted that the book “9 Incredible Years of Haryana Government” includes responses provided on the public welfare policies of the Haryana Government.

Haryana Assembly Speaker Sh Gian Chand Gupta, Union Minister of State Sh Krishan Pal Gurjar, Transport Minister Moolchand Sharma, Urban Bodies Minister Dr. Kamal Gupta, Cooperative and Public Health Minister Dr. Banwari Lal, Women and Child Development Minister Kamlesh Dhanda, Development and Panchayat Minister Devendra Singh Babli MP Dharmbir Singh, MP Ramesh Kaushik, Rajya Sabha MP Krishan Lal Panwar, General DP Vats, Kartikeya Sharma, Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal, Director General of Information, Public Relations, Languages and Culture Department Mandip Singh Brar, book editor Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, Translation editor Dr. Shamim Sharma and former IPS R.K. Panchnanda and other dignitaries were also present on this occasion.

This book, highlighting the accomplishments of the current government over the past nine years, has been published in both Hindi and English languages.

Haryana

Uchana assembly constituency will become industrial hub: Dushyant Chautala

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IEP Chandigarh, February 3

Haryana Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Dushyant Chautala said that under the PADMA Scheme, 9 locations have been identified in the state for setting up industrial units and applications were sought from farmers for providing land on the e-Bhoomi portal. Under which, proposals of more than 3000 acres have been received from farmers across the state, in which two proposals of 1170 acres have been received for providing land in village Khatkar of Uchana assembly constituency.

Addressing the gathering at Chhatar Gaushala in Uchana today, the Deputy Chief Minister said that industrial units will be developed at these designated locations. This initiative aims to transform Uchana into an industrial hub, thereby generating employment opportunities for the local youth.

During the event, Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala distributed cheques worth approximately Rs 84 lakh to 8 cow shelters in Uchana under the Gau Seva Aayog. Additionally, he inaugurated three concrete roads constructed at a cost of about Rs 1 crore 25 lakh.

He mentioned that the state government has allocated Rs 400 crore to the Gau Seva Aayog, which will be utilized for various purposes such as constructing sheds, godowns, boundary walls, paving roads, arranging fodder, and providing other facilities in cow sheds across the state. Furthermore, financial assistance will be provided to registered cow sheds through the portal launched by the Commission, as per their requirements. Mr. Chautala emphasized that cow service is an act of religious virtue, and thus, the contribution of society members is crucial in this regard.

Deputy Chief Minister said that all the administrative formalities including the map of the college to be built in Chhatar village have been completed and Rs 27 crore has been sanctioned for it. Apart from this, Chhatar village has been included in the Mahagram scheme, under which Rs 51 crore has been sanctioned to provide potable drinking water to the villagers and to lay a new pipeline for proper drainage of dirty water. He said that during the tenure of the state government, a record 30,000 kilometers of roads have been constructed, renovated and expanded. The Deputy Chief Minister remarked that empowering farmers and agriculturalists was the vision of Jan Nayak Chaudhary Devi Lal, and it remains the guiding purpose of his own life. He emphasized his ongoing efforts to generate employment opportunities for youth and ensure comprehensive development of villages. Due to his meaningful hard work, pleasant results of various development projects worth about Rs 1,400 crore are being seen in the state as well as in Uchana assembly constituency.

Haryana

Haryana Police and State Narcotics Control Bureau Host Innovative Hackathon on Drug De-addiction: Final Round Highlights and Future Impact

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IEP Chandigarh, February 3

The final round of the Hackathon on drug de-addiction, organised jointly by the Haryana Police and the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau and is scheduled for 4th February. The top 10 teams from across the country will participate, presenting prototypes and solutions related to drug de-addiction.

During the event, each team will have about 20 minutes to present their prototypes or solutions. A panel of experts has been assembled to evaluate the teams based on the set parameters and will also declare the results of the competition. Haryana Police will use the unique ideas from the first, second, and third-place teams in future de-addiction awareness efforts.

Director General of Police, Haryana,  Sh. Shatrujeet Kapur, highlighted the importance of the hackathon in saving the youth from the clutches of drugs. The event, conducted through a digital platform, began on December 3 and attracted 3100 participants from colleges, universities, and other institutions nationwide. Out of these, the top 10 teams have been selected for the final round.

Police Commissioner, Panchkula, Sh. Sibash Kabiraj emphasised the power of digital media in conveying messages to the public. He stressed the need to utilise digital platforms alongside traditional methods to effectively spread the message of de-addiction.

 Sh.Kabiraj stated that the ups and downs in the lives of youth often lead them astray towards issues like drug addiction. The hackathon aims to find innovative solutions, such as e-sports and gaming, to prevent youth from taking the wrong paths.

Kabiraj acknowledged the support of the organisation ‘Hack2Skills’ in organising the hackathon. He stated that the event provides a platform for innovative ideas to convey the message of de-addiction more effectively.

The hackathon showcased both non-technical and technology-based solutions, including online games and metaverse software, connecting more people to the campaign and inspiring them to stay away from drugs.

Punjab

CM gives clarion call to NRIs to become active partner in social and economic growth of state

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IEP Chamrod Pattan (Pathankot), February 3

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Giving a clarion call to the Punjabi Diaspora settled across the globe, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday sought their whole hearted cooperation and support to transform the state’s economy to emerge it as a frontrunner state in the world.

Addressing a massive gathering of Non Resident Indians converged here during NRI Milni, the Chief Minister said that during the early regimes the NRIs faced lot of humiliation in the hands of the officials. However, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that a paradigm shift is being witnessed in the state ever since he has  assumed the charge of office as number of initiated have been taken for the welfare of the NRIs. He said that is just the beginning as a lot of path breaking initiatives are being taken to restore the pride of NRIs.

The Chief Minister said that as he hails from a common family and is well connected at the ground level so he is well aware of the problems being faced by the various sections of society.  He assured the people that every problem of theirs will be solved and the state government is at their disposal for resolving their every genuine problem. Bhagwant Mann said that the state government is committed for the progress of the state and prosperity of its people.

The Chief Minister said that he has met a number of Ambassadors and Diplomats to rope in the foreign investment in the state. He said that the sole motive is to give impetus to the development of the state so that people are immensely benefitted from it. Bhagwant Singh Mann that the efforts will bear fruits as in the coming times Punjab will emerge as a hub of tourism industry.

The Chief Minister said that the NRI sammelans held during the previous regime were merely a sham as nothing concrete came out of it. He said that NRIs were called in big palaces and hotels but were humiliated afterwards as no one bothered about them. However, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government is holding these functions at scenic locations to showcase rich cultural heritage of the state to the people adding that NRIs must contribute generously for its progress and prosperity.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab is a blessed land which produces so much wheat and paddy so as to make the country self reliant in food production. However, he said that the earlier leaders had plundered the wealth of the state due to which the state had lagged behind in progress and prosperity. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that but now the state government is making strenuous efforts to make sure that Punjab leads the country in every sphere.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab don’t need any NOC of patriotism from anyone especially those in power at centre today. He said that they had rejected the tableaus of the state during Republic Day parade irrespective of the fact 90% sacrifices for freedom struggle were made by Punjabis. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this step motherly treatment against the state is intolerable as they don’t have any right to reject the tableaus of the state showcasing patriotism and nationalism in the state

Punjabis irrespective of caste, colour, creed and their geographical location have proved their mettle in every aspect of life by the grace and blessings of Almighty. He said that probably Punjabi community is the only in the world which could undertake any daunting task by the dint of their hard work, sincerity and commitment. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government has made concerted efforts to put Punjab in the high growth trajectory in terms of superb infra structure, surplus in power, excellent education and Healthcare facilities.

The Chief Minister said that all this had been feasible due to congenial atmosphere of communal harmony, peace and amity prevailing in the state. He said that coupled with this the unique phenomenon of peaceful atmosphere led Punjab to hasten the process of overall growth and development in the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is matter of great pride and satisfaction that g he brave Punjabis for reposing unflinching trust in the ethos of democracy besides cementing the bonds of brotherhood, peace and mutual tolerance.

Striking an emotional chord, the Chief Minister urged the NRI brethren to contribute enormously in the promotion of education and healthcare services besides strengthening economic and social ties, which was all the more important for our future generations. He said that this milni should not be construed as a ‘formal get together’ rather it should be utilized as a Healthy platform for serious deliberations to translate ideas/ proposals into actions for betterment of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann envisaged the cooperation of NRIs in the field of education and healthcare to crystallize several schemes and projects in these core sectors.

The Chief Minister said that our government is fully committed to cherish their aspirations for making their living as comfortable and pleasant as abroad to make Punjab as their abode of dreams. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he is confident that when this process of ‘reverse immigration’ has begun then it will not only halt the emerging trend of brain drain especially amongst the youth, who were passionate to go abroad in search of green pastures but will also contribute significantly in motivating the NRIs to contribute in social economic growth of state. He exhorted the NRIs to play a proactive role for this noble cause to make Punjab a front runner state in the country.

The Chief Minister said that due to concerted efforts of the state government global Bussiness tycoons are making beeline to invest in state. He said that during the last more than 20 months some of the biggest companies like Tata Steel and others had made a beeline to invest in the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is a step forward for making Punjab a frontrunner state and carving out Rangla Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has introduced unique colour coded stamp papers, which is a step forward towards ushering a new era of Industrial Revolution in the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab is the first state to introduce green colored stamp papers to facilitate the entrepreneurs for setting up their units thereby giving much needed fillip to industrial growth of the state. He described it as a revolutionary step aimed at promoting ease of doing business for the entrepreneurs desirous of setting up their units in the state.

The Chief Minister quipped that earlier the industries used to sign MOUs with the families in power but ever since he has assumed charge of government, the agreements are signed for people of state. He said that earlier the affluent families used to get benefit of these agreements but now Punjabis will enjoy its fruits. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is because his government is working untiringly for the well being of every strata of society.

The Chief Minister also impressed upon Punjabi Diaspora to become active partners in the ongoing unprecedented development of Punjab by making investments, adopting villages and cities besides contributing in the area of social welfare. He apprised the Diaspora that Punjab was a most favoured investment destination, progressive and actually a rich-state and they should showcase these facts globally. Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab was the first state in the country to respond NRIs instantly to assist them and resolving their grievances.

The Chief Minister said that the state government is making concerted efforts for the welfare of the youth of the state. He said that the focus of his government is to ensure that youth become job givers instead of job seekers. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is the need of hour to carve out a progressive and prosperous Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that in the last 25 years only two people had ruled the state and exploited its resources for their vested personal interests. He said that out of these five two were from one family whereas two were from another one adding that along with them one person was a Pakistani national. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these people mercilessly looted the state for their vested political interests thereby hampering the development of the state.

Taking a jibe over the Punjab Bachao yatra of Akali Dal, the Chief Minister dared the Akali leaders to explain that after looting the state for 15 years, from whom they are trying to save the state from. He said that Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly besides bruising the psyche of Punjabis emotionally and patronizing several mafias in the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that people are well aware of the dubious character of the Akalis and Badal family due to which their theatricals won’t work now.

The Chief Minister said that the state has created history by purchasing Goindwal power plant owned by a private company GVK Power. He said that for the first time this reverse trend has started that the government has purchased any private power plant whereas in the past the state governments used to sell their assets to the favorite individuals at ‘throw away’ prices. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that as coal from Pachwara coal mine can be used only for government power plants so with purchase of this power plant this coal can be aptly utilized for producing power to provide it to every sector of the state.

The Chief Minister said that during the previous regimes people were so scared of success as the leaders used to put share in their ventures. He said that these leaders looted the masses and their hands were soaked with the blood of Punjab and Punjabis. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that but now the government of common people is there in the state which is giving chance to every individual to succeed in life.

The Chief Minister said that in order to facilitate the NRI brethren for resolving their issues, the state government has launched new website nri.punjab.gov.in of the NRI affairs department. He described it as a path breaking initiative aimed at ensuring the well being of the NRIs on one hand and helping them to stay connected with their roots on the other. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the website has detailed information pertaining to NRI Police wing, Punjab State Commission for NRIs and NRI sabha.

Likewise, the Chief Minister said that in another major relief to Non Resident Indians (NRIs), the state government has appointed Chief Minister Field Officers as Nodal Officer for NRIs to ensure rederessal of their grievances in a prompt and time bound manner. He asserted that the move was aimed at ensuring that grievances of residents of state were redressed at district level by providing a well structured and empowered Grievance Redressal System to them. Bhagwant Singh Mann revealed that in another significant decision the state government has now decided to appoint Chief Minister Field Officers as Nodal Officer for NRIs to ensure rederessal of their grievances.

On the occasion Cabinet Ministers Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Lal Chand Kataruchak and Brahm Shanker Jimpa along with others were also present.

Punjab

Lawrence Bishnoi’s aide Chotta Mani, who harboured Moosewala’s shooters held along with his accomplice from Punjab

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PUNJAB EXPRESS BUREAU

CHANDIGARH, February 3

          Amidst the ongoing drive to destroy the organised criminal networks in the state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) of the Punjab Police have arrested Lawrence Bishnoi’s close aide Mandeep Singh alias Chotta Mani of Chandigarh, who had provided hideouts to accused persons involved in Sidhu Moosewala’s murder and facilitated escape of Gangster Deepak Tinu in 2017, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Saturday.

          Accused Chotta Mani was arrested along with his accomplice identified as Jatinder Singh of Gobindpura Mohalla in Manimajra. Police teams have also recovered two .32 caliber pistols along with 12 live cartridges from their possession.

          DGP Gaurav Yadav said that following reliable inputs about presence of Chotta Mani in the area of Zirakpur, teams of AGTF headed by ADGP Promod Ban under the supervision of AIG Sandeep Goel and led by DSP Bikram  Brar, managed to track the location of the accused and arrested him along with his accomplice.

          He said that both the accused were actively working for Lawrence Bishnoi & Goldy Brar Gang, and have a criminal history with several criminal cases pertaining to Attempt to Murder, Extortion, Robbery and under Arms Act were registered against them in Chandigarh and Haryana. Preliminary investigation has also revealed that the arrested accused were tasked to carry out target killings of rival gangsters by their foreign-based handlers, he added.

          Sharing more detail, AIG Sandeep Goel said that in 2022, accused Chotta Mani along with his other associates Sachin Thapan, Deepak Mundi and  Joginder Joga— all shooters and accused  involved in Sidhu Moosewala murder, were directed by foreign handlers to commit sensational crime on directions of Ayodhya based politician Vikas Singh, who was later arrested by National Investigation Agency (NIA) in November 2023.

          He said that Lawrence Bishnoi wanted to settle Chotta Mani abroad and also sent him to Dubai thrice  to facilitate his safe entry to Europe, but failed due to which the latter had to return back to India.

          A case FIR no 4 has been registered under section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station State Crime, SAS Nagar.

Chandigarh

PGIMER’s 10th Annual Research Day” concludes on an upbeat note with a showcase of over 400 research papers  

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IEP Chandigarh

With over 400 research papers published during last one year on display, 36 researchers winning awards in the surgical, medical, and basic sciences fields for ‘Research publications’ and 15 researchers being awarded in the ‘Innovations’ category for their exemplary and credible research work, PGIMER’s 10th Annual Research Day, the big ticket medical research showcase, concluded on an upbeat note here at PGIMER today.

The Annual Research Day had the august presence of esteemed Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Health Research and Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research as the Chief Guest.

PGIMER’s luminaries Prof. Y.K. Chawla, Prof. V. Sakhuja*, Prof. D. Behera, Prof. S.K. Jindal, Prof. A. Chakraborti and Prof. Madhu Khullar graced as Guests of Honour at the impressive function organised to mark the 10th Annual Research Day.

Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Health Research and Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research while delivering his address themed on ‘Research in Medical Institutions in India’, highlighted, “The vision is relatively very simple that Indian institutions should achieve global leadership in health research. But it is incomplete without helping to solve health problems of Indian citizens. I don’t call that as research unless it helps to do something. So I urge you to do one of the two things, either make India proud or make Indians healthier.”

Complimenting PGIMER for being visionary in making efforts towards impactful research, Dr Rajiv Bahl said,” I envision at least 3 Indian medical institutions in top 100 in the next 3 years as far as the global ranking is concerned and PGIMER being surely one of them. But then our research should focus on three things: research, innovation and societal good.”

Director General, ICMR further highlighted that Research and Development can be revolutionary as it can address key health issues of the country like eliminating communicable diseases, preventing and managing non-communicable diseases and improving  reproductive and child health by providing solutions with drugs, vaccines, medical devices and diagnostics, improved quality of health care and universal health coverage.

To take the research to the next level, Director General ICMR enumerated some strategic action points for the institute which included Expansion and enhancement of intramural research grants; Greater value to impactful research; Protected time to faculty engaged  in impactful research;  Central research Laboratories; Ease of doing research and Operational entrepreneurship policy.” 

Talking in a very impassioned tone, the Director General ICMR said, “Clinical care is a great service. But research is also a national service. So don’t be satisfied that you have created something, but have the fire and passion to take the next step to improve patient care.” 

Earlier, while welcoming the dignitaries, *Prof. Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER cited PGIMER as a hidden volcano with incredible research potential. Expressing gratification to see such an overwhelming response to the 10th Annual Research Day, the Director PGIMER said, “Some of the posters and some of the innovations were beyond imagination and their impact is going to be felt sooner than later. That should be the starting point.”  

The Director PGIMER further highlighted, “The beginning of good research is originality. The research, which is driven by originality, always lasts longer than the research, which is driven by statistics. So let originality be the bedrock of your research.”

Underpinning the rich research and scientific heritage of PGIMER, the Director stated, “PGIMER stands for good and eloquent research, eloquent in terms of its impact on the society, eloquent in terms of its therapeutic good that it delivers and eloquent in terms of the harmony that it creates for everyone who tends to read what comes out of PGIMER.”

Earlier Prof. Naresh Panda, Dean (Academics) setting the context of event, stated, “Our journey at PGIMER has been one of relentless pursuit of excellence in medical education, patient care, and cutting-edge research. PGIMER has to its credit 22 published patents with an additional 10 patents granted in the year 2022-2023.”

The event concluded with the award ceremony wherein 36 researchers won awards in the surgical, medical, and basic sciences fields for ‘Research publications’ and 15 researchers in the ‘Innovations’ category. The awards were based on the H-Index which measures both the productivity and citation impact of the publications.

The winners in the ‘Innovations’ category included Dr. Ramandeep Singh Virk (Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery,  Dr. Vishal Kumar (Orthopaedics), Dr. Shiv Lal Soni (Anaesthesia and Intensive Care), Dr. Sagarika Haldar (Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology), Dr. Basant Kumar (Cardiology), Dr. Anshika Chauhan            (Biochemistry), Dr. Babita Ghai (Anaesthesia and Intensive Care), Dr. Minakshi Rohilla (Obstetrics &gynaecology), Dr. Ravindra Khaiwal (Community Medicine & School of Public Health), Dr. Manoj Kumar Jaiswal (Oral Health Sciences Centre), Dr. Maryada Sharma (Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery,  Dr. Gurjeet Kaur (Endocrinology), Dr. Pravin Salunke   (Neurosurgery), Dr. Rajeev Chauhan (Anaesthesia and Intensive Care), Dr. Anurag Snehi Ramavat (Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery.

The best published research papers in category of Medical Speciality: Professor – Dr. Ritesh Agarwal (Pulmonary Medicine), Dr. Shankar Prinja (Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health), Dr. Ravindra Khaiwal (Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health); Additional Professor – Dr. Rajender Kumar (Nuclear Medicine), Dr. Prateek Bhatia (Paediatrics (Haematology-Non Clinical), Dr. Anmol Bhatia (Radiodiagnosis and Imaging); Associate Professor – Dr. Ashok Kumar Pannu (Internal Medicine), Dr. Harmandeep Singh   (Nuclear Medicine), Dr. Sahajal Dhooria (Pulmonary Medicine); Assistant Professor – Dr. Valliappan Muthu (Pulmonary Medicine), Dr. Tanvi Kiran (Community Medicine and School of Public Health), Dr. Arka De (Hepatology).

The best published research papers in category of Surgical Speciality: Professor – Prof. Babita Ghai (Anaesthesia and Intensive Care), Prof. Neerja Bharti (Anaesthesia and Intensive Care), Prof. Ramandeep Singh (Ophthalmology); Additional Professor – Dr. Harjeet Singh (Department of GI Surgery, HPB and Liver Transplant), Dr. Uttam Chand Saini (Orthopaedics), Dr. Siddhartha Sharma (Orthopaedics), Dr. Tanvir Samra (Anaesthesia & Intensive Care); Associate professor – Dr. Shiv Lal Soni (Anaesthesia and Intensive care), Dr. Anudeep Jafra             (Anaesthesia), Dr. Sarbpreet Singh    (Renal Transplant Surgery); Assistant Professor – Dr. Bharti Joshi (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), Dr. Shipra Gupta (Oral Health Sciences Centre), Dr. Ajay Singh (Anaesthesia And Intensive Care).

The best published research papers in category of Pre & Para- Clinical Speciality: Professor- Dr. Manisha Biswal (Medical Microbiology), Dr. Indu Verma (Biochemistry), Dr. Anup Ghosh (Medical Microbiology); Additional Professor- Dr. Archana Angrup (Medical Microbiology), Dr. Sreejesh Sreedharanunni (Hematology), Dr. Amol N Patil (Pharmacology); Associate Professor- Dr. Sagarika Haldar (Experimental Medicine & Biotechnology), Dr. Ashok Kumar Yadav (Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology), Dr. Harsimran Kaur      (Medical Microbiology); Assistant Professor – Dr. Rakesh Yadav (Medical Microbiology), Dr. Kamal Kishore (Biostatistics), Dr. Praveen Sharma (Haematology).

The best published research papers each in category Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis:  Dr. Vishal Sharma (Gastroenterology), Dr. Jitendra Kumar Sahu (Paediatrics), Dr. Rimesh Pal (Endocrinology).

 Dr. Piyush Pathak (Senior Resident, Biochemistry), Dr. Anubha Dev (Senior Resident, Dermatology, Venereology, Leprology), received awards in the resident’s category. 

Dr. Gaurav Jyani (Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health), Dr. Savitesh Kushwaha (Community Medicine and School of Public Health), in the PhD scholar/Pool officer/Research Associate category.

Dr. Ankit Watts (Physicist, Nuclear Medicine), Ms. Garima Bhatt (Manager, Community Medicine and School of Public Health) received awards in the Miscellaneous category.

The event was aptly wrapped by Prof. Ashima Goyal, Head, Dept of Oral Health Sciences by proposing a vote of thanks.

Chandigarh

Health Department, UT Administration takes a step towards a TB Free Chandigarh

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IEP Chandigarh, February 2, 2024

n a proactive move towards achieving a Tuberculosis-free Chandigarh, the Health Department of the Chandigarh Administration, under the leadership of Dr. Varinder Nagpal, Acting Director Health Services, initiated the Active Case Finding (ACF) campaign for Tuberculosis today. Dr. Nagpal, along with senior officers, flagged off teams dedicated to conducting a comprehensive house-to-house survey in the Rehabilitation Colony, Dhanas. 

The primary objective of these teams is to identify presumptive TB cases within the community. They will collect on-the-spot sputum samples for free TB testing, and a free hand-holding X-ray facility will be provided at the Health and Wellness Centre in Rehabilitation Colony, Dhanas during the ACF survey. Dr. Rajesh Kumar, State TB Officer, highlighted that individuals diagnosed as positive cases during the survey will promptly be initiated on free treatment after completing all necessary tests. This strategic approach aims to ensure early detection, thereby breaking the chain of infection. 

 The ACF survey commenced on 31st January 2024 and will extend over fifteen days, covering the entire Rehabilitation Colony in Dhanas. Twenty teams, comprising 40 trained volunteers, will diligently conduct the survey to encompass the entire population of the area. Present at the launch were Dr. Charru Singla, NO-NHM, Dr. Rajesh Kumar, State TB Officer, and Dr. Vandana Mohan, DFWO, contributing their expertise and support to this crucial public health initiative

Haryana

Manual Scavengers Act: sewer cleaning should be done using machines instead of humans and everyone should be aware about it: Anjna Panwar

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IEP Chandigarh, February 2

Vice-Chairperson of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK) Smt. Anjna Panwar, emphasised the crucial role sanitation workers play in society. She acknowledged the significance of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s ‘Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan’ and emphasised that the success of the campaign is unimaginable without the contributions of the  sanitation workers.

Smt. Panwar highlighted the vital role these workers played during the pandemic and urged everyone to be more sensitive to their needs. She directed officers to take prompt action on letters sent by the NCSK department.

Smt. Panwar visited Haryana to review the social, economic, and educational levels of sanitation workers and their dependents and to review self-employment schemes for their rehabilitation. During her visit, she chaired a meeting in Chandigarh with the representatives of Safai Karmachari Commission and administrative secretaries of various departments. Commissioner & Secretary, Social Justice, Empowerment, Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Backward classes and Antyodaya (SEWA) department, Sh. Pankaj Agarwal  and  Director General, SEWA, and Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Smt. Ashima Brar also attended the meeting. 

The Vice Chairperson of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis stated that as per the Supreme Court’s decision, no human should be sent for sewer cleaning. According to the Manual Scavengers Act, sewer cleaning should be done using machines instead of humans, aimed at saving lives. It is important for contractors and workers of sewer cleaning and various departments to be informed about this law. She also mentioned that the supreme court has increased the  financial assistance of sewer workers who died during cleaning, from Rs.10 Lakh to Rs.30 Lakh, entitled for their dependents.

Smt. Panwar further highlighting the importance of health stated that proper clothes, gloves and shoes should be provided to the sanitation workers according to the weather, and said that attendance register centres should be established in different regions of cities, and separate bathrooms for men and women, drinking water, and changing rooms should be built for their safety as well.

She also directed officers to take swift actions in the pending financial assistance cases of the sanitation workers. 

She recommended providing homes or creating dedicated colonies for the rehabilitation of sanitation workers and constructing well-equipped community centres that would facilitate their social activities. Additionally she said that a proper management of their children’s education needs attention.

She stressed the adoption of self-employment for sanitation workers and said that National Safai Karamchari Finance and Development Corporation offers loans ranging from Rs.1 lakh to 50 lakhs for self-employment. Similarly, in Haryana, sanitation workers’ children can avail a loan of Rs.10 lakhs for higher education.

On this occasion, the Commissioner and Secretary of the SEWA Department, Sh. Pankaj Agarwal informed that the Chief Minister is deeply concerned about the well-being of sanitation workers and the state government will formulate a policy for the welfare of sanitation workers soon. The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK)  was established in 2017. During sewer cleaning, there were 124 reported cases of sanitation worker deaths in Haryana and out of these; financial assistance was provided to 90 affected families, and partial financial assistance was given in 10 cases. He mentioned that the Public Health Engineering Department has been designated as the nodal department to formulate policies.

Managing Director, Haryana Scheduled Castes, Finance and Development Corporation, Smt. Geeta Bharti and other officers remained present during the occasion.

Haryana

Chief Minister suspends two Police officers; third faces departmental action

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IEP Chandigarh, February 2

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh Manohar Lal ordered the suspension of two Haryana Police officers and initiate departmental action against a third officer for failing to conduct a proper investigation into a case involving a fight and assault with weapons in Panipat. In addition, directives have been issued to investigate this matter at the headquarters level and submit the report by February 20, 2024.

The Chief Minister’s Officer on Special Duty, Sh Bhupeshwar Dayal, stated that Panipat resident Rajesh Gupta filed a complaint with the police alleging that his company obtained an 18-foot-wide road from Attar Rice and General Mills. He claimed that on September 19, 2021, at 9 am, Attarchand Mittal and his two sons, Ankur Mittal and Manish Mittal, accompanied by 40-50 men, obstructed their passage. They returned in the evening with around 100 individuals and attempted to fatally attack them, firing shots. Following the complaint, the matter was investigated by the then ASI Ramniwas and Inspector Ummar Mohammad. The investigation report concluded that the allegations were unfounded.

Mr. Dayal added that following this, Sanjay Gupta lodged a complaint regarding this issue on the CM Window Portal. Subsequently, in accordance with the Chief Minister’s directives, instructions were issued to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter at the headquarters level. The case was once again referred to the Karnal Police for investigation. Additionally, he mentioned that a report from the Inspector General of Police of the Karnal Range has been received, expressing doubts about the closure of the initial investigation report.

According to the Chief Minister’s Officer on Special Duty, Sh Bhupeshwar Dayal, the Chief Minister has now directed to suspend the then ASI Ram Niwas and Inspector Ummar Mohammad in connection with this issue. In addition, Chief Minister also ordered to initiate departmental action against the third officer who forwarded the matter to Karnal Police rather than conducting an investigation at the headquarters level. Furthermore, the Chief Minister has instructed for a fresh investigation of this matter at the headquarters level and mandated that the report be submitted by February 20, 2024.