Chandigarh, May 10:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday categorically said that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the state and people should refrain from panic buying in this hour of crisis.

In a statement, the Chief Minister urged the people to not get panic about anything during these days of crisis as the state government has already made elaborate arrangements for all the essential supplies. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that there is no shortage of anything so panic situation amongst the people should be avoided adding that any person creating artificial shortage will be dealt with strictly, so that people do not face any problem. He also appealed to the media to exercise restraint in coverage to avoid amplifying tensions and further aggravating the situation adding that it is the moral duty of every one of us to ensure that any sort of confusion , panic or misinformation does not prevail amongst the masses especially during these harsh times.

The Chief Minister further said that he has asked the Ministers of the border areas to be permanently stationed at their respective towns to oversee the relief operations. Likewise, he said that other Cabinet colleagues will also be visiting these border towns on rotation basis so that people can be assured help in case of emergency. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Ministers will visit Fire Stations, Hospitals, Ration depots and other places so that people in these areas do not face any type of problem adding that they will supervise the rescue operations and give necessary directions to the officers.

The Chief Minister said that the entire country was thankful to the border residents for braving all odds while living in this part of the state as these brave people of the region have to confront number of problems during their day to day life.  Assuring fulsome support and cooperation to the people, he assured them that the state government will take every step to safeguard their interests at every cost. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the residents of border region are true patriots and the state government is committed to safeguard their interests in this hour of crisis.

The Chief Minister said that in order to provide immediate hassle-free medical treatment to victims of War and terrorist activities in Government / empaneled private hospitals in the State, to save precious lives and to encourage the general public to bring the War victims and terrorist activities to the nearest government and empaneled private hospitals, coverage under the Farishtey Scheme 2024 has been expanded. He said that this will provide coverage for victims of war and terrorist activities, ensuring comprehensive support and

relief to affected individuals. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this expansion reinforces the state government’s commitment to help those facing extraordinary hardships due to such turbulent times .

Chandigarh/Ferozepur, May 10:

In line with Punjab CM S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s pledge to stand with people of Border areas to support them in this difficult time, Cabinet Ministers Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Hardeep Singh Mundian visited the Ferozepur district to assess the situation in border areas.

The Cabinet ministers also visited the local hospital to meet the people injured in the last night Pakistan drone strike at village Khai Pheme Ki. They also assured them and their families the every possible assistance from the state government and wished them a speedy recovery.

Meanwhile, the cabinet ministers held discussions with hospital officials and doctors, and civil and police authorities, to assess the situation and provide necessary directions. They emphasised the need for advance preparations, including stocking essential medicines and ensuring sufficient medical facilities to respond effectively in emergencies.

The cabinet ministers urged Ferozpur residents to follow government and district administration instructions to ensure their safety during this situation. Prioritising national and public safety, they emphasised the importance of adhering to advisories and safety guidelines issued by authorities. Specifically, they stressed the need to strictly follow blackout instructions to prevent untoward incidents.

Reaffirming the Punjab’s unwavering support for the nation and its security forces, they assured that the state government and district administration are committed to ensuring the safety of residents amidst the challenging situation. Punjab Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is closely monitoring the situation, providing necessary instructions to officials. The ministers the need for unity and cooperation among residents during this sensitive period.

During the visits, Local MLAs Ranbir Singh Bhullar, Rajnish Dahia, Fauja Singh Sarari and Naresh Kataria, S.S.P. Bhupinder Singh Sidhu, SDM Zira Gurmeet Singh and other civil and police officials were also present.

Chandigarh/Fazilka, May 10:

Following the directions issued by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Cabinet Ministers Tarunpreet Singh Sond and Dr. Baljit Kaur visited Fazilka today to assess the preparedness of the civil administration and to directly interact with local residents, boosting their morale during this crucial time.

During their visit, the ministers held a meeting with the district administration and reviewed arrangements at the local Civil Hospital. They also visited the city markets to meet citizens and provide reassurance of the government’s continued support.

Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond emphasized that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, stands firmly with the people of border areas during these testing times. He stated that all necessary support is being extended to the armed forces as well. Reviewing the civil administration’s preparedness, the Minister assured that residents of Fazilka need not panic, as all arrangements have been made to ensure their safety and convenience.

The ministers also inspected the Civil Hospital and confirmed that adequate beds and essential medicines are available as per requirements. Minister Sond noted that teams from the civil, police, and health departments are working round the clock to monitor the situation and serve the public effectively.

Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated the government’s commitment to the people and urged citizens not to fall prey to fear or anxiety. She reviewed the functioning of the blood bank, civil services, and healthcare facilities during the visit.

Both ministers toured the local markets and interacted with shopkeepers and residents, encouraging them to stay calm and assured. They emphasized that the government is fully prepared to handle any situation and stands united with the people. Residents, in turn, expressed satisfaction with the administration’s efforts and pledged their support to the nation’s security forces.

The visit was also attended by Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna, Jalalabad MLA Jagdeep Kamboj Goldy, Balluana MLA Amandeep Singh Goldy Musafir, and former MLA Arun Narang.

Earlier, while reviewing the civil preparedness, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu informed that essential commodities are stocked as per requirement, and there are no reports of black marketing or hoarding. She confirmed that the administration is fully geared to respond to any emergency.

Present on the occasion were SSP Varinder Singh Brar, ADC (General) Dr. Mandeep Kaur, ADC (Development) Subhash Chander, SDMs Kanwarjit Singh Mann and Veerpal Kaur.

Chandigarh, May 10:

In order to improve the roads of the state and improve their maintenance, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has implemented a new tender policy in the state.

Giving information in this regard, Punjab Public Works Minister S. Harbhajan Singh E. T. O. said that in order to develop the infrastructure of the state in a strong, better and sustainable manner, the Punjab government has made provision for long-term maintenance in the tender for the construction of roads, which will benefit the residents of the state, contractors and the department.

He said that with this new provision, people will get good roads through timely and immediate repair of roads, besides, the contractor will be able to plan his maintenance and the department will get relief from the process of repeatedly inviting tenders.

 The Public Works Minister said that 85% of the road network of the state of Punjab is rural roads or link roads. These roads play an important role in connecting the villages of Punjab with markets, schools/colleges, hospitals and cities. These roads play an important role in the economy of the state of Punjab.

He said that long-term provisions including special repairs are a win-win solution for all parties. Apart from this, the government is also making open funds available in the budget provisions. The main goal of our government is to use every penny of the public’s income properly and according to the expectations of the common people.

S. Harbhajan Singh E. T. O. said that the Punjab government has drawn up a special repair program for the roads for the years 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25, in which the government has set a target of repairing 2615 link roads of 6015 km in length falling under the Public Works Department with a cost of Rs. 1188 crore. In this project, the maintenance of these link roads for five years is also to be done by the concerned contractor. In this regard, as a preliminary project, tenders have been called for long-term provisions including special repair of 94 roads of two districts of Punjab, Barnala and Pathankot, which are 2096 km in length.  Special repair work including long-term repair of these roads will start soon and special repair work on the remaining link roads of the state will also be completed within the stipulated time under similar provisions.

Chandigarh, May 10:

In the wake of the prevailing circumstances, Punjab’s Higher Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains has directed all government and private universities and colleges to prioritise students safety and well-being by ensuring a secure environment.

In a press communique issued here today, S. Harjot Singh Bains categorically said that the educational institutes must ensure the safety and well-being of students who remain on campus, providing them with food, shelter, care and essential services, without compelling any student to leave campus if the students unable or unwilling due to safety, transport or personal reasons.

He informed that a letter has been issued to all universities in this regard, stating that students will not be compelled to stay on campus for examinations if they choose not to. Those who opt to return home will be allowed to do so without academic penalty, and examinations may be rescheduled or alternative arrangements can be made.

To ensure seamless support, the Education Minister further directed education institutes to designate nodal officers and establish help-desks to facilitate effective communication with students and promptly address any concerns or issues that may arise.

S. Harjot Singh Bains underscored that student safety is paramount, stressing that institutions are duty-bound to ensure it. He cautioned that any lapse in safety protocols will invite serious consequences, with institutional management being held personally responsible.

The Education Minister directed all universities and colleges to immediately comply with these instructions and take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

Chandigarh/Ludhiana, May 10

Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, accompanied by Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, today visited Dayanand Medical College (DMC) here to meet civilians injured in a reprehensible attack by Pakistan in the Ferozepur district. The leaders expressed solidarity with the affected families and condemned the attack.

The injured sustained severe burn injuries in the attack and are currently receiving comprehensive medical care at DMC.

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema met with the injured civilians and their families, expressing deep concern and assuring them of the Punjab government’s unwavering support during this challenging time. He strongly condemned the attack, stating, “Such cowardly acts against innocent civilians are utterly unacceptable and demand a strong response. Pakistan’s actions are reprehensible and deserve the strongest condemnation.”

MP Sanjeev Arora echoed the sentiment and stated that the Punjab government is taking all necessary steps to support the victims. Both also met with hospital authorities to review the medical care being provided. They were apprised of the meticulous medical treatment being provided to the injured at DMC Ludhiana

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Cheema said that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is continuously monitoring the situation and that the government is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of Punjab’s citizens. “The Chief Minister is actively engaged, and we are committed to providing all possible assistance to the affected individuals and their families,” he added.

Finance Minister Cheema also appealed to the public for calm and unity in the face of this challenging situation. “We must remain united and vigilant to safeguard our state and its people,” said cheema.

CHANDIGARH, May 10:

          With the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government expanding its flagship Farishtey Scheme to include victims of war and terrorism, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Saturday informed that the three people injured in drone attack took place in Ferozepur on Friday night, are being provided free treatment under the scheme.

          The decision to include victims of war and terrorism under the Farishtey scheme was taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday, to ensure that any person injured should receive immediate and free medical treatment at government and empaneled private hospitals across the state.

          “The government bearing the cost of treatment for every war and terror victim. The Aam Aadmi Party government is the first in the country to do so,” said Dr Balbir Singh.

          Pertinently, the Farishtey Scheme, which was originally launched to provide cashless treatment to road accident victims, was aimed at reducing the mortality and morbidity rates resulting from injuries sustained in roadside accidents by providing immediate, hassle-free treatment in government and empaneled private hospitals. Under the scheme, anyone coming forward to help accident victims to save their lives are considered as ‘Farishta’ and being felicitated with cash rewards, commendation certificates and provided immunity from legal complications and police inquiries. The scheme was notified on January 25, 2024.

Chandigarh/Rajasansi/Ajnala, May 10

The NRI Affairs Minister Punjab Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat today personally reached the spot to take stock of the latest situation arising out of the drones fired by Pakistan last night, which fell in the fields of village Ranewali-Mughlanikot near town Rajasansi and in village Wadala Bhittewadh near Sri Ram Tirath. On this occasion, police and civil administration officials were also present with them.

Addressing the people gathered at the scene, Cabinet Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal said that the drones/missiles were neutralised in the air by the Indian Army which were fired by Pakistan at night to harm our citizens. He added that villagers should not go to see the fallen debris, as it cannot be ruled out that some of the debris of the drones/missiles being explosive. He said that there may be risk of loss of life of people present at the scene due to the explosion of debris of missiles. He urged the people to inform the police or army in case of a drone/missile falls anywhere.

During the interaction, Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat said that Pakistan is violating the international laws and attacking civilians by drones and missiles is highly condemnable and unfortunate. He said that despite Pakistan having suffered badly by waging wars with India since 1947, Pak still not giving up its nefarious anti-India activities. He said that Indian forces are giving a befitting reply to Pakistan. He reiterated that the state government stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Punjab and the Indian Army like a rock.

Chandigarh, May 10

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday urged the religious leaders to act as a catalyst for strengthening the ethos of communal harmony, brotherhood and peace in this hour of crisis.

Addressing the gathering during Sarb Dharam meeting at the Raj Bhawan, the Chief Minister, in the presence of Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, said that Punjab has a very fertile land and anything can germinate on it except hatred and animosity. He said that Punjab is a sacred land of great Gurus, saints and seers who have shown us the path of mutual love and tolerance. Bhagwant Singh Mann further said that the social bonding amongst people is already very strong adding that the religious leaders should come together for further strengthening it.

The Chief Minister said that it is imperative in the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. He said that though the meeting has been called at short notice but it is heartening that it has brought together religious leaders to emphasize unity and peace during these challenging times. Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted that Punjab is the most secular state of the country where there is no place for hatred adding that the bond of mutual cooperation, tolerance and love further needs to be strengthened for which religious leaders can play a key role.

The Chief Minister said that hate speeches on social media that fans animosity amongst religions and people  will be tackled with a heavy hand and strict action will be taken against such people. He urged the religious leaders to bring such sinister moves immediately into the notice of the Government and so that swift action can be taken on it. Bhagwant Singh Mann also urged people to show social bonding and solidarity with the families of the Army personal in this hour of crisis to further boost their morale.

The Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensure ‘Sarbat Da Bhalla’ (welfare of all) and expressed gratitude to the religious leaders for their solidarity and support to this noble cause. He emphasised that it is the need of the hour to protect the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Indian Army comprises brave men from all faiths and Punjab stands firmly with them, irrespective of religion, caste, or creed. 

The Chief Minister reiterated that people should not rush to the spot where any part of drone or missile is found as it can be harmful before it is defused. Soliciting fulsome support and cooperation from general public, he urged them to immediately inform the police if they see any missile or ballistic material. Bhagwant Singh Mann cautioned them against approaching or touching such hazardous objects as they can be fatal for them.

The Chief Minister said that the Armed forces of India are fully capable to give a befitting reply to such actions by Pakistan and no stone will be left unturned for it.

Reaffirming Punjab’s legacy of bravery, he stated that the state stands firmly with the Indian Army and no stone will be left unturned for this noble cause. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is already extending all possible help to the Armed forces for safeguarding the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country.

The Chief Minister said that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the state and people should refrain from panic buying in this hour of crisis. He urged the people to not get panic about anything during these days of crisis as the state government has already made elaborate arrangements for all the essential supplies. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that there is no shortage of anything so panic situation amongst the people should be avoided adding that any person creating artificial shortage will be dealt with strictly, so that people do not face any problem.

The Chief Minister unequivocally warned against hoarding and black marketing and assured that state has  sufficient supplies in these challenging times. He urged people that while night travel should be avoided but there is no need for undue panic or restlessness. Bhagwant Singh Mann further announced that mock drills will continue for civilian preparedness adding that Civil defence training will also be intensified.

On the occasion Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav, Principal Secretary to CM Dr Ravi Bhagat and other were also present.