Event on ‘Seafarers’ Rights and Employment’ Held at Tagore Theatre Auditorium in Chandigarh
Category Archives: Punjab
Event on ‘Seafarers’ Rights and Employment’ Held
Chandigarh: The Deputy Director General of Shipping, Captain Dr. Daniel Joseph, from the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), has assured the protection of the rights of merchant navy seafarers. Speaking as the chief guest at an event on the topic “Seafarers’ Rights and Employment,” organized at the Tagore Theatre Auditorium in Chandigarh on Friday, Dr. Joseph stated that now seafarers from Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh will find it easier to bring their concerns and rights to the government’s attention. A significant initiative under the leadership of Captain Sanjay Parashar has been launched in Chandigarh, which is expected to yield positive results in the near future. During the program, seafarers raised their issues on an open platform.
While interacting with the seafarers present at the event, Captain Dr. Daniel Joseph emphasized that protecting the rights of Indian merchant navy seafarers is a top priority for DG Shipping. He highlighted that seafarers from Punjab and neighboring states often had to depend on offices in Mumbai or Delhi to voice their concerns. This process was both lengthy and complex. Additionally, many seafarers lack sufficient information about online procedures, leading to situations where they miss out on their rightful entitlements. Dr. Joseph assured that the government is committed to addressing the concerns of seafarers seriously and providing resolutions. This new initiative will give seafarers an opportunity to present their problems effectively, thanks to the extensive efforts of Sanjay Parashar, who has been working for the welfare of maritime seafarers for over two and a half decades. Parashar has even helped rescue seafarers and save lives in critical situations. Dr. Joseph further stated that he will take all necessary measures to improve the condition of seafarers and ensure they receive proper respect.
Active Support from the Directorate General of Shipping
Captain Joseph also highlighted that the Directorate General of Shipping has taken the issues of seafarers seriously and has been coordinating with various government departments to resolve their problems. He assured that better policies and programs will be developed in the coming days to enhance the quality of work and life for seafarers. Efforts will have to be made collectively. It was stated that considering the dangers and challenges arising during sea voyages, prioritizing the safety of sailors is extremely necessary. Even today, 81 Indian sailors are imprisoned in foreign jails. It was suggested that emphasis should be placed on implementing modern technology and providing a swift justice system for sailors. Additionally, the use of the latest safety measures should be ensured so that sailors receive better protection.
Seafarers Shared Their Issues
Seafarers from various regions of North India participated in the program and shared their difficulties. They reported instances of unfair treatment. In Punjab and neighboring states, exploitation by fraudulent agents is a significant issue, particularly in rural areas where young men seeking jobs in the merchant navy are often scammed. These fraudulent companies not only exploit the dreams of the youth but also rob their families of their hard-earned money. The seafarers stressed the need for strict action against such entities and called for immediate measures to curb these practices.
They also demanded improved working conditions, enhanced safety measures while working at sea, and expanded healthcare facilities for long-term support. Additionally, they emphasized the need for more training and development opportunities to further enhance their professional skills.
Captain Sanjay Parashar’s Initiative
The event was organized under the leadership of Captain Sanjay Parashar, who has consistently worked on issues related to the rights and employment of merchant navy seafarers. Captain Parashar stated that the program provides a platform for seafarers to raise their concerns effectively. He described this initiative as a new beginning that will help bring positive changes for the benefit of seafarers. The event sent a positive message to the merchant navy seafarers that their rights will be protected, and their problems will be resolved promptly. Seafarers now hope that the efforts of Captain Dr. Daniel Joseph and Captain Sanjay Parashar will make their concerns a government priority, ensuring better working and living conditions for them.
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Chief Minister digitally transfers Rs. 144.73 crore into the accounts of 3882 families under DAYALU scheme
Chandigarh:
Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has directly transferred a sum of Rs. 144.73 crore into the bank accounts of 3,882 beneficiaries under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Antyodaya Parivar Suraksha Yojana (DAYALU-I). This scheme, launched with the aim of providing socio-financial security to Antyodaya families, seeks to support those facing financial hardships due to the death or permanent disability of a family member.
Sharing this information here today, an official spokesperson informed that under this initiative, since the scheme’s inception, Rs. 763.69 crore has been disbursed to 20,399 eligible families, who applied through the portal, from April 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. The amount is being directly transferred into their Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts through the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) platform.
The spokesperson further explained that the DAYALU-I scheme provides financial assistance to families with an annual income of less than Rs. 1.80 lakh, as verified through the Family Information Data Repository (FIDR). The support is extended in the event of natural or accidental death, or permanent disability caused by an accident, for any family member. The families eligible for this scheme must have a Family ID/Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP) number.
He informed that the goal of the DAYALU-I scheme is to provide timely financial assistance and ensure social security to the eligible residents of Haryana, particularly in cases of untimely death or disability.
Captain Amarinder Singh Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Dr Manmohan Singh
Chandigarh: Senior BJP leader and Punjab’s former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh today paid heartfelt tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji, who passed away yesterday.
Captain Amarinder Singh described Dr. Manmohan Singh ji as a true statesman, renowned economist, and humble human being who led by example. “His vision, wisdom, humility, and commitment to the country’s growth will always be remembered,” he said.
Recalling his interactions with Dr. Manmohan Singh ji, Captain Amarinder Singh said, “As the Chief Minister of Punjab, I had the privilege of seeking Dr. Manmohan Singh ji’s guidance on various economic issues faced by the state. His invaluable insights and advice were instrumental in shaping our economic policies and initiatives,” he recalled.
Captain Amarinder Singh further said that Dr. Manmohan Singh ji’s contributions to India’s economic growth and development are unparalleled. “He played a pivotal role in liberalizing the Indian economy and introducing policies that transformed the country into a major economic power,” he said.
Moreover, Captain Amarinder Singh noted that Dr. Manmohan Singh ji had a special place for Punjab in his heart. “He initiated and gave the go-ahead for many important projects of the state, including the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, which was established in 2006,” he recalled.
Paying his respects to the departed leader, Captain Amarinder Singh extended his heartfelt condolences to Dr. Manmohan Singh ji’s family and loved ones. “We shall all deeply miss him. May his family find strength and solace in this difficult time,” he said.
School Leaders across Haryana and the Nation will unite for an Innovative Revolution in Education
Chandigarh:
On December 19 and 20, 2024, a two-day School Leaders’ Summit – 2024 will be organized under the joint aegis of the Federation and NISA at Hotel Park Plaza, Chandigarh. The event’s chief guest will be the world-renowned yoga guru and spiritual guide, His Holiness Swami Baba Ramdev Ji. Swami Ji will share his insights on the necessary steps to bring about an innovative revolution in education and to ensure the success of the New Education Policy (NEP).
Dr. Kulbhushan Sharma, President of NISA, stated that during the event, all the participating schools will pledge to work together towards the successful implementation of the NEP and will make collective efforts for its effective execution.
Several distinguished speakers will share their perspectives at the summit, including Shri Shankaranand Ji, All India Organizational Secretary of Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal- Dr. Rishi Mohan Bhatnagar, Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal, Mr Sridhar, Co Founder and CLO Educational Initiatives, Dr. Amit Chandra, CEO of the Centre for Civil Society; Edupreneur and author Manjula Pooja Shroff; and international motivational speaker Dr. Pawan Agarwal, Dabba Wala
Over 500 school leaders and principals from various states, including Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and others, will participate in this summit. The event aims to provide a unique platform for innovation, leadership, and the effective implementation of the New Education Policy in the education sector.
IEEMA to host ELECRAMA 2025 from February 22 to 26
Chandigarh
The Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA), marked another milestone with the Chandigarh road show for ELECRAMA 2025. As the countdown to the world’s largest electrical show of the power sector begins, IEEMA is strengthening its foothold in Punjab and Haryana, regions pivotal to India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Looking ahead, IEEMA is gearing up to host ELECRAMA 2025, the flagship event for the global electrical industry, scheduled from February 22 to 26, 2025. This edition is poised to set new benchmarks, featuring over 1,100 exhibitors, attracting 400,000 business visitors, facilitating more than 15,000 B2B meetings, welcoming 600+ hosted buyers from 80 countries, and showcasing 10+ country pavilions. Speaking at the event, Sunil Singhvi, President, IEEMA highlighted that “Punjab and Haryana have showcased commendable strides in their power sector development, reflecting the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
ELECRAMA 2025 is not just an exhibition; it’s a movement to drive India’s energy aspirations forward. Through initiatives like this roadshow, IEEMA continues to connect the industry with opportunities, skilling prospects and growth. This edition will see close to 73 exhibitors alone from this region which highlights the interest of manufacturers in this global exposition.”
Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Rs. 59.34 crore disbursed to 256 institutions out of Rs. 92 crore: Dr. Baljit Kaur
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 TO INSTALL 2356 AGRI SOLAR PUMPS WITHIN 4 MONTHS
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.