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.

Chandigarh, May 10

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday vehemently pleaded the case of state for special package and tax heaven as it always faced the brunt of war from across the border.

Putting forth his view in the all party meeting called on by Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria, the Chief Minister said that whether it is war or any other exigency Punjab and Punjabis are always on the forefront. He said that Punjab always face the first brunt during every war and escalations adding that state needs special treatment for its enormous contribution. Bhagwant Singh Mann called upon all the parties to make concerted efforts for this noble cause so that Punjab can be a frontrunner state in the country adding that state government will raise this issue with GoI.

The Chief Minister said that besides being food bowl of the country, Punjab has always been its sword arm but its contribution has been hitherto ignored. He said that it is the high time when all the political parties should sink their differences and seek special package for the state by rising above the party lines. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this is imperative to further give much needed push to the development and prosperity of the state.

The Chief Minister further said that all the political parties should unite for the cause of the state and its people so that interests of Punjab can be safeguarded. Bhagwant Singh Mann welcomed the leaders of the political parties for coming on short notice during this hour of need. He called upon them to show united stand during the hour of crisis for betterment of state and its people.

The Chief Minister said that the package should be given on lines of one given to Jammu-Kashmir and others. He said that the state government will also Raise the demand of Border area allowance for Doctors, Teachers, Anganwadi and other workers posted in Border Districts with the Government of India. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is the need of hour for giving major fillip to development and progress of state.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister announced that starting from Sunday he will be visiting the border areas of the state to assess the ground level situation. He said that Punjab, especially the border regions, has suffered a lot due to the mounting tension between both the countries. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that those brave hearts who had suffered huge losses during the bombardment and others will be duly compensated by the state government.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister said that being a border state Punjab will continue to prepare for meeting any sort of such untoward incidents. He said that the Punjab Police is already acting as second line of defence to safeguard the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Punjab Police will be further upgraded with modren equipments to enable it to tackle any sort of situation.

Chandigarh, May 10:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday ordered release of additional water to Rajasthan for catering needs of military in the state.

In a statement issued here today, the Chief Minister said that Rajasthan government had sought more water from the quota of Punjab as the Military deployed at the Rajasthan border needed additional water.  He categorically said that whenever the national interests are concerned Punjab never takes a backseat. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the water has been released to secure the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country.

The Chief Minister said that not only water but Punjab can shed its blood for the sake of national interests. He said that it is a fact of matter that Punjab can never drag its feet back when the issue of country is involved. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that keeping in view the needs of soldiers of the country he has immediately ordered to release the additional water to Rajasthan.

Chandigarh, May 9:

The Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday gave nod for purchasing anti-drone system to check the smuggling of weapons and drugs through drone on the borders.

A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of the council of Ministers held here at the official residence of the Chief Minister.

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that nine anti drone systems will be installed along with 532 kilometers of border with Pakistan. He said that these systems will help in checking the smuggling  of drugs and weapons along with the border through the drones. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Rs 51.41 crore will be spent by the state government for this Nobel initiative aimed at strengthening security along with border.

Punjab shares a long International Border with Pakistan and lies in proximity of Afghanistan (major Heroin-producer). Pakistan continues to make concerted efforts to destabilize India’s Internal Security by smuggling from across the border. The fencing along the international border has been breached with use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or Drones.

Requirement for Anti Drone System (ADS) to enhance capability to detect and neutralize hostile drones, thereby preventing the influx of arms, explosives and narcotics which are smuggled from across the border using the drones is must. Further it is imperative for the purpose of security during movement of VIP/VIP/Highly threatened persons in the state. Thus, the need for deploying Anti Drone Systems (ADS) has been recognized by the state Government in the border districts of Punjab on priority and on an urgent basis.