IEP Sangrur, January 11

Taking a jibe over the defamation case filed by SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann welcomed it by saying that it will give him another chance to expose the anti-Punjab stance and misdeeds of the Badal family.

Addressing the gathering after dedicating 14 libraries to the people here today, the Chief Minister said that he will make a plea for daily hearing of the case to ensure that people are apprised about the sins of Badals. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Badals ignored the interests of the state only for the sake of constructing a canal to their farm house by Haryana as reward for his treachery with the state. He said that not only this the business of Badals in terms of Hotels, vilas, transport and others have flourished at the cost of the progress of the state, which will be told to the people in detail.

The Chief Minister said that Sukhbir is contesting the case for saving his property whereas he will go to the court to save the people. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he will tell the world about all the misdeeds of the Badal family due to which the state had lagged behind in various fields. He said that the hands of the Badal family are drenched with the blood of the Punjab and Punjabis adding that people of the state can never forgive them for their sins.

The Chief Minister said that those people who used to claim that they will rule the state for 25 years have been totally rejected by the people. He said that these leaders have not been able to get their 25 MLAs elected as they have been trounced by the people. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these haughty leaders have been shown a door by the people and have been sent to political oblivion.

The Chief Minister said that during the previous government the quotas of the political leaders had usurped the interests of the common man. However, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that after assuming the charge of office he has accorded top priority to end all such quotas and usher a new era of empowerment of common man. He said that the main motive is to ensure the welfare and progress of the people and ensure comprehensive development of the common man.

The Chief Minister said that the traditional parties are envious of him because he hails from a common family and is working tirelessly to ensure welfare of people. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these leaders had always believed that they have divine right to rule the state due to which they are not able to digest that a common man is running the state efficiently. He said that these leaders have befooled the people for a long time but now people are not getting swayed by their misleading propaganda.

The Chief Minister said that the Union government has maliciously stalled the Mukh Mantri Teerth Yatra Scheme by not giving the trains to us. He said that the trains scheduled on December 7 and 15 have not been given to the state despite payment done in advance. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the sole motive is to deprive people of not paying obeisance at revered places adding that these designs of union government will not be successful as he will resume this yatra through airplane.

The Chief Minister said that the Union government has insulted the great martyrs including Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Mai Bhago, Ghadri Baabe and others by rejecting the tableau of the state. He said that the union government is trying to belittle their contribution and sacrifice of these heroes by not including their tableaus in the Republic Day parade. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this cannot be tolerated as it is the grave insult of these great patriots and national leaders adding that the state government will showcase this contribution in tableaus across the state.

The Chief Minister predicted that the people are so fed up with corrupt leaders of these parties that we will sweep all the seats in the state during the coming general elections. He said that people have made up their mind to give all the 13 seats of the state in upcoming general elections to them. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the tally in coming Lok Sabha elections will be 13-0 where 13 will be in the favor of them and the other parties will not even be open to their accounts.    

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 now complete transformation is being witnessed in hospitals, schools and new medical colleges are coming up for the well being of the common man adding that 90% of the consumers are getting zero power bill .  He said that these decisions are being taken only by those who are aware about the problems of the people at grass root levels. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the traditional political parties have ruined the state and now they are shamelessly making huge talks of morality.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has earmarked more than Rs 29 crore for development of villages in Dhuri. He reiterated that Dhuri will emerge a hub of state politics and no stone is being left unturned for this noble cause. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that a major push is being given to the overall development of the state in general and that of the Dhuri assembly segment in particular.

The Chief Minister said that gone are the days when the head of the state was confined to big rooms of their palaces whereas now he is always amongst the people. He said that all the promises made with the people by his government are being fulfilled in the right earnest to give boost to development of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he is easily accessible to all due to which every issue of the state is now resolved promptly to the satisfaction of people.

IEP Chandigarh, January 9

Aiming to promptly address the issues and grievances of NRI Punjabis, the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is organizing four ‘NRI Punjabian nal milni’ programs across the state.

Punjab NRI Affairs Minister S. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal said that the ‘NRI Punjabian nal Milni’ programs will commence on February 3 in Pathankot. This event will focus on resolving the concerns and complaints of migrant Punjabis from districts such as Pathankot, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, etc.

The minister outlined the schedule, while holding a meeting that meeting on February 9 will encompass SBS Nagar, Rupnagar, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and SAS Nagar. On February 16, issues related to NRI Punjabis from Sangrur, Patiala, Barnala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Malerkotla, Bathinda, Ludhiana, and Mansa districts will be addressed in Sangrur. February 22 will address issues of NRI concerns in Ferozepur, Faridkot, Fazilka, Tarn Taran, Moga and Sri Mukatsar Sahib at Ferozepur.

S. Dhaliwal said that NRI Punjabis can register their complaints on the department’s website: nri.punjab.gov.in and WhatsApp numberL 9056009884 from January 11 to January 30, 2024.

Mr. Dhaliwal urged NRI Punjabis to attend these gatherings in large numbers, highlighting the success of five meetings organized in December 2022, during which 605 different complaints were lodged and resolved. He also mentioned the efficient resolution of online complaints received by the NRIs police wing at 15 NRI police stations, district, and state levels.

On this occasion Principal Secretary NRI Affairs Department Mr. Dilip Kumar, ADGP NRI Mr. Praveen Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary NRI Mrs. Kanwalpreet Brar and Mr. Paramjit Singh and senior officials of the NRI department were present.

IEP Chandigarh, January 9

The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to providing better civic services to the state’s people. To achieve this, the government is conducting development works across Punjab, as expressed by Balkar Singh, Minister for Local Government.

Minister for Local Government Balkar Singh reviewed the ongoing development works today at Municipal Bhawan Sector-35 Chandigarh in Municipal Council/Nagar Panchayat areas like Mansa, Boha, Budhlada, Breta, Bhikhi, Joga, Sardulgarh, Malot, Giddarbaha, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Bariwala, Faridkot, and Jaito. During the meeting, officials were instructed to expedite ongoing works.

In the review meeting, the Local Government Minister assessed various projects under Swachh Bharat Mission, Amrut Mission, allocated funds, and work status. He emphasized Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s dream of making the state “Rangla Punjab,” urging officials to coordinate and work together to realize this vision.

Cabinet Minister Balkar Singh directed officials to promptly utilize unused funds under various schemes, warning of strict action against non-compliance with guidelines.

The minister urged officials to focus on sewage cleanliness and proper disposal of heritage waste for a clean, pollution-free environment. He assured adequate funds for development works and instructed officials to submit a comprehensive action plan if additional funds are needed.

Cabinet Minister Balkar Singh briefed MLAs about various works and allocated funds under different schemes, emphasizing the goal of comprehensive state development. He urged officials to share development information with MLAs, addressing any difficulties promptly.

The minister stressed the importance of ensuring quality and transparency in development works. MLAs Buddha Ram, Amolak Singh, Gurpreet Singh Bananwali, Jagdeep Singh Kaka Brar, representative of MLAs, CEO of PMIDC, Deepti Uppal, EOs of Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayats, and other senior officers attended the occasion.

IEP Chandigarh, January 9

Commending the entire department for braving numerous challenges and ensuring a successful Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2023-24, the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said that this is the result of the Department staff working hard day and night and he expressed confidence that this positive trend would continue in KMS 2024-25 also. 

Presiding over a high level meeting of the department to review the Kharif Marketing Season 2023-24, the Minister the department is closely connected with the farming sector which is the backbone of the agrarian economy of Punjab. “The farmers just want two things, timely lifting of their crops and prompt payments,” said the Minister adding that it is a matter of pride that the department has fulfilled the expectations of the farmers in this respect. 

On the occasion, the Minister awarded the three Districts for showing exemplary performance in ensuring a successful Kharif Procurement Season 2023-24. The District Food Supply Controller (DFSC) Pathankot Gurinder Singh bagged the 3rd prize. The DFSC Fazilka, Himanshu got the 2nd prize while the DFSC Mansa, Mandeep Singh won the top honour.

The entire department celebrated Lohri on the occasion by dancing to the beats of Dhol.

Among others present on the occasion included the Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Director Puneet Goyal, MD PUNSUP Sonali Giri, MD Punjab State Warehousing Corporation Kanwalpreet Kaur Brar and other senior officers of the department.

IEP Chandigarh/Amritsar, January 9

Stating that illegal mining will not be tolerated under any circumstances, Punjab Water Resources, Mining & Geology and Soil and Water Conservation Minister S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra on Tuesday categorically said that stern action will be initiated against the officials involved in illegal mining and those are not collecting royalties.

During a marathon meeting with MLAs from Majha and officials from the water resources, mining & geology and soil & water conservation departments in Amritsar, the Cabinet Minister said that royalties of soil being used for major projects should be ensured to be deposited in the government treasury. He highlighted that despite the construction of hundreds of kilometers of national highways in the state; their actual royalties have not been collected and asked officials for vigilance and proper attention to these projects. In a firm tone, he warned of departmental action against any officer showing negligence in addressing issues related to illegal mining and royalty.

While reviewing the supply of canal water to fields during the last Kharif season, S. Chetan Singh Jauramajra said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government is dedicatedly working towards preserving groundwater for future generations. He emphasized that utilizing canal water is crucial for this endeavour and insisted that no laxity will be tolerated in addressing this issue.

S. Jauramajra pointed out that previous government had consistently overlooked this critical issue, resulting in near destruction of the entire canal water infrastructure. Assuring corrective measures, he announced that the upcoming Kharif season would witness the restoration of the canal water system, ensuring its availability to tale end and every field.

The Cabinet Minister also instructed that during the off-season when water flows into the canals, caution must be exercised as excess water can be detrimental to crops. He asserted that impeccable plans should be devised to utilize the water for recharging groundwater. He ordered that department officers should promptly address pending tasks and, for those beyond their jurisdiction, maintain consistent communication with higher officials to ensure timely canal water distribution to every field.

Regarding canal and drain cleaning, the Cabinet Minister said that the government has acquired ten large machines for the task. He said that if the need arises, additional machinery will be purchased to complete the work. He said that earlier the governments used to get this work done by outsourcing but now by purchasing the machines, 60 percent of the cost has been saved while amplifying the efficiency of the work.

On this occasion, MLA Mr. Sherry Kalsi, MLA S. Jasbir Singh Sandhu, Chairman Mr. Raman Bahl, Mr. Jagrup Singh Sekhwan, Mr. Sukhjinderraj Singh Lali Majithia, Chairman Mr. Baldev Singh, Chairman Ranjit Singh Cheema, Chairman S. Balbir Singh Pannu, Mr. Samsher Singh Dinanagar, Mr. Gurdeep Singh Randhawa and other senior leaders participated in the meeting and shared the issues of their respective areas with the Cabinet Minister.

Meanwhile, all the MLAs and leaders commend the proactive initiative taken by the Cabinet Minister in addressing crucial departments, marking a significant milestone after a long time. They expressed their wholehearted support.

 IEP Chandigarh, January 5

          The Punjab government has declared holidays for children aged 3-6 years till January 14, 2024 in view of the winter weather across all the Anganwadi centres of state.

          Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that it is very difficult for small children to come to Anganwadi centres due to the extreme cold season. She directed that children aged 3-6 years should be given ration that could be taken to their homes from Anganwadi workers during holidays.

          The Cabinet Minister directed Child Development Project Officers to report daily on the nutrition tracker and ensure that the benefits of other schemes apart from pre-school education are given to the beneficiaries as before.

IEP Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, January 5

          Punjab School Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Friday encouraged the teachers in government schools to enhance students’ learning levels across the state.

          Education Minister Punjab, S. Harjot Singh Bains, addressed the inaugural ceremony of a day-long workshop analyzing the data from baseline testing and mid-line testing of ‘Mission Sampath.’ This initiative, conducted by the School Education Department, aims to qualitatively improve students’ learning levels in government schools.

          The workshop witnessed participation from District Education Officers (Primary and Secondary Education), Deputy DEOs, and Block Primary Education Officers from all districts of the state.

          During the workshop, Education Minister Mr. Harjot Singh Bains interacted with officials, discussing class-wise and subject-wise results across different districts. He expressed satisfaction over the improvements in students’ learning levels under ‘Mission Samrath.’

          S. Bains highlighted that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s government is dedicated to enhancing the state’s education system, ensuring qualitative improvements in the education sector. The goal is to make students studying in ‘Mission Saksham’ schools proficient in language, mathematics, and science subjects.

          Reflecting on last year’s outcomes, Education Minister Mr. Harjot Singh Bains said that there is an increase in self-confidence among students in government schools. He emphasized the commitment of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s government to improving the education system and making students in ‘Mission Samrath’ schools proficient in language, mathematics, and science subjects.

          Mr. Bains also mentioned the rising interest among students in government schools towards medical, engineering, civil services, and army recruitment. Visits are organized to provide them with opportunities in these fields.

          Meanwhile, District Education Officers took the opportunity to share the best education training techniques from their respective districts with the participants.

IEP Chandigarh, January 5

          Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, on Friday, unveiled the book titled “S. Tarlochan Singh: Historic Journey”, shedding light on the life of the former Member of Parliament and Padma Bhushan Awardee S. Tarlochan Singh, here at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration.

          During the ceremony, the chief guest S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan hailed S. Tarlochan Singh as an individual whose capabilities have solidified his legacy. “As a stalwart in politics, religion and journalism, S. Tarlochan Singh stands out as a prominent figure in the Punjabi community, providing a distinctive identity to the global Sikh community”, he added.

          S. Sandhwan said that capturing the tireless work, substantial struggles and numerous achievements of Tarlochan Singh’s life within a book seemed an impossible feat. However, Dr. Prabhleen Singh admirably accomplished this task, unveiling countless facets of S. Tarlochan Singh’s commendable life.

          Notably, S. Tarlochan Singh served as the Press Secretary to President of India Giani Zail Singh from 1983 to 1987. He held the post of Chairman of the National Commission on Minorities and remained Rajya Sabha Member from 2005 to 2011. S. Tarlochan Singh voiced his concerns in Parliament on December 14, 2009 against the Sikh massacre of 1984. He passionately expressed his anger over the injustice done to the Sikh community nationwide, demanding justice. He had also advised Giani Zail Singh for the construction of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Marg during Giani Zail Singh’s tenure as the Chief Minister of Punjab. Ex-MP’s significant contributions spanned across various positions at both the Punjab and national levels, where he executed his duties with distinction, rendering exemplary service. Through his sheer determination, he ascended to the Parliament in Delhi and left an indelible mark in various fields worldwide.

          The Speaker stated that S. Tarlochan Singh himself is a distinguished writer, who enlightened our path by penning various serious issues related to history, religion, administration and politics, adding that upon reading the book, it becomes apparent that not only does it shed light on the personal life of Tarlochan Singh, but it also illuminates many significant events in the country’s history and their impact on his life.

          S. Sandhwan stated that Sardar Tarlochan Singh forged his destiny by embracing the philosophies of the great Sikh Guru Sahiban. His dedication as a true disciple of the Gurus is evident in his journey.

          Referring to his personal association with S. Tarlochan Singh, the PVS Speaker mentioned the strong bond between his grandfather Giani Zail Singh and former MP Tarlochan Singh. He noted that Giani Zail Singh, during his tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab to his presidency, held deep trust in S. Tarlochan Singh. In turn, the former MP also served with selflessness, integrity and sensitivity, as outlined in the sequence of events in this book.

          Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of State Mr. Som Prakash said that Mr.  Tarlochan Singh always raised his voice for Punjab and Punjabiat.  He said that this book will prove to be a source of inspiration for the coming generations.

          While speaking on the occasion, S. Tarlochan Singh said that after facing homelessness during the partition, he resorted to child labour in Patiala for one and half year to sustain his family, he saved a portion of his earnings to enroll in Khalsa School. In 1949, he passed the tenth standard and later obtained an MA in Economics in 1955.

          Authored by Dr. Prabhaleen Singh and published by Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust, this book delves into the life’s struggle and work done by S. Tarlochan Singh. The author meticulously gathered exceptional information about S. Tarlochan Singh through extensive research from around eight prominent writers.

          Dr. Sarabjinder Singh, Dean, Faculty, Humanities & Religious Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Prof. Karamjeet Singh, Vice Chancellor, Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University, Patiala, Mr. Sandeep Gosh, Editor Outlook, Mr. Suresh Kumar, IAS (Ret.), S. Rupinder Singh, Senior Associate Editor (Retired) The Tribune and author Dr. Prabhleen Singh also spoke and shed light on various aspects of the life of S. Tarlochan Singh, describing him the Encyclopedia of Sikhism.”

          Prominent amongst others who were in the event, Dr. SP Singh Oberoi, Managing Trustee, Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust, Politician S. Balwant Singh Ramuwalia, Former Finance Minister S. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, S. Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor, Chandigarh University, Former MLA S. Kanwar Sandhu and others.

SPEAKER SANDHWAN CONDOLES DEMISE OF JATHEDAR BALWANT SINGH NANDGARH

         Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, on Friday expressed deep grief over the sad demise of Jathedar Balwant Singh Nandgarh.

          In a press communique issued here, the Speaker stated that due to the demise of Bhai Balwant Singh Nandgarh, former Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda), Panth has suffered a great loss. He said that the memorial services performed by Jathedar Sahib in the religious field will always be remembered with respect.

          The speaker prayed to Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul  and to grant strength to the entire Sadh Sangat including the family to beer the loss.

 IEP Visakhapatnam, January 5

 Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday extended Red carpet welcome to the pharmaceutical companies for making huge investments in the state.

 The Chief Minister, who visited the Jawahar Lal Nehru Pharma city here today, said that there is a huge potential of pharmaceutical sector in the state. He said that the companies should come forward for making big investments in the state to propel its economic growth on one hand and to expand their business on the other. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it will help in emerging the state as a front runner in the pharmaceutical sector.

The Chief Minister also had detailed deliberations with the officers of the pharma city for setting up same venture in the state. He said that such pharmaceutical city can prove to be a boon for the state and can generate a lot of employment opportunities for the youth. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government will leave no stone unturned for exploring the feasibility of setting up this city in the state.

 The Chief Minister also undertook a tour of the pharmaceutical city and minutely observed functioning of the pharma companies by visiting their units. He said that the state government is committed for ensuring holistic development of the state and prosperity of its people. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that such projects are the need of the hour for carving out a rangla and vibrant Punjab.

IEP Derabassi (Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar), January 04

Starting a novel initiative, Deputy Commissioner Mrs Aashika Jain along with SSP Dr Sandeep Garg inaugurated an infrastructure Upgradation done at Government Middle School Bhagwanpur (Bhagwas) under CSR activities in Derabassi today evening.

       Appreciating the Industry Associations of Derabassi for joining hands with the District Administration to meet the infra needs of educational institutions, she said that the industries can bring a remarkable change by adopting nearby government institutions under a corporate social responsibility program.

     Referring to the infra changes done by various industries under CSR activities at Government Middle School, Bhagwanpur, she said that the construction of three rooms, installation of five touch Penal LEDs to transform classrooms into smart Classrooms and tiling of assembly ground will inspire others too to come forward for contributing to other institutions too.

      She categorically mentioned that PCCPL  and Usha Yarns have spent Rs 15 lakh for building two rooms while Kansal Industries Rs 3.5 lakh for the third room. Similarly, Jai Parwati installed five touch panel LEDs for a smart classroom at Rs 5 lakh while Bhagwati Steels Rs 3.5 for tiling works in the assembly ground.

     The Deputy Commissioner said that now the number of rooms has risen to 13 in the school and we hope the school will soon get the status of ‘School of Happiness’ under which a grant of Rs 40 lakh would be provided by the Punjab Government to add more Class Rooms, Office Room, Lab, Open Gym etc in addition starting of meditation class. She said that the concept of the School of Happiness is to provide more than mere job-based education viz quality of life, values of life to make the personality of students by keeping free of stress etc.

     The Deputy Commissioner said that the Bhagwant Singh Mann Government of Punjab is committed to strengthening the education and health institutes in the public sector. Schools of Eminence have been introduced to make the government school children at par with private schools so that they can compete at all levels. 

    Assuring the Industry Associations’ representatives for providing a conducive environment for the smooth running of their plants, she added that the long pending demand for repair of two main roads; one from Derabasai to Barwala and another in front of Chatha Foods in Lalru have been approved by the Punjab Chief Minister as per the commitment made at Sarkar Sanyatkat Milni held way back in Mohali in mid of September last year. Work on Barwala Road has been started while the other road will be started soon as all formalities have been completed by MC Lalru.

      Apart from that the approach roads of the Railway Under Pass in Derabassi on Mubarakpur road would also be repaired soon as the rest of the amount has been demanded from the PWD Department after getting approved Rs 60 lakh under District Mineral Foundation funds. She also gave assurance to the villagers to resolve issues of sewer and phirni road.

      SSP Dr Sandeep Garg while interacting with the industry association said that the District Police would not let the industries face any difficulty. may it be related to the monopoly of transportation or gangsters or any other law and order problems. He sought cooperation from the industries and the general public to provide information to the police regarding drug trafficking and any other law order-related problems.

     The other officers presented on this occasion included SDM Derabasai Himanshu Gupta, ASP Derabassi Dr Darpan Ahluwalia, representatives of the industries, School Head Master Kuljinder Singh, Village Sarpanch Karamjit Kaur, School Management Committee members Ranjit Singh Rana, Sukhwinder Singh and Sewak Singh.