IEP Chandigarh

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday inaugurated the newly constructed extension building of District Jail Bhiwani, where he made several significant announcements for the welfare of prisoners. During his address, the Chief Minister announced to start tele-medicine facility for prisoners in all jails in the state. Additionally, he allocated a budget of Rs 10 crore to improve the dietary provisions for prisoners, resulting in an increase of Rs 10 per day for their meals.

Highlighting the contribution of the Jail Department in generating revenue for the government, the Chief Minister said that petrol pumps would be set up outside 11 jails across the state. He also announced to provide facilities to Prison Department personnel in Haryana State Transport buses on the lines of police personnel. Apart from this, it was also announced to introduce the online transfer policy to enhance convenience for jail employees in couple cases.

In honour of Teacher’s Day, the Chief Minister announced an additional grant of Rs 1 crore for the benefit of the jail inmates. He urged jail staff to commit to treating prisoners with dignity and respect, emphasizing their role in the rehabilitation and development of individuals. He stressed that the transformation of a criminal into a responsible member of society is a challenging, jail staff should work as teachers and make an important contribution in improving the future of criminals.

Khattar underscored the government’s commitment to improving prison conditions, mentioning plans to expand capacity from accommodating 22,000 to 26,000 inmates. He highlighted ongoing jail construction projects, including the upcoming jails in Fatehabad and Rewari. Additionally, he informed about the construction of a jail training center in Karnal, set to be completed by December.

The Chief Minister said that people make mistakes, and when they reform and reintegrate into society, they contribute positively. He proposed that, akin to “Sewarth Jaiye, Shiksharth Aaiye” outside schools, a similar message, “Sajaarth Jaiye, Sudharth Aaiye” should be written in the jail. He urged jail staff to change their approach from hostility to empathy, fostering a caring environment for prisoners.

Khattar also mentioned the establishment of industry within state prisons, tapping into the hidden talents of inmates and providing them with honorariums for their work. Efforts were underway to determine appropriate remuneration rates. Apart from this, high security is being maintained in jails of the state.

Speaking about legislative changes, the Chief Minister mentioned that the Government of India was planning amendments to the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Evidence Act to deter individuals from engaging in criminal activities.

Haryana Jail Minister Ranjit Singh Chautala that the concept of prison started from England and currently Australian prisons are considered the best. He said that efforts are being made to provide better facilities in the jails of Haryana as well. He said that three-tier security arrangements are being made in Rohtak jail. He said that the citizens of the state are feeling cordial under the guidance of Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal.

Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, TVSN Prasad, emphasized the government’s focus on strengthening administrative and governance structures. He assured that efforts were being made to ensure the humane treatment of inmates in state prisons, including the construction of new facilities and expansion work. Additionally, provisions for snipers to combat narcotics were being explored.

Director General of Prisons, Mohammad Akil, detailed the construction of the new jail, spanning approximately 12 acres and costing Rs 29.98 crore. The expanded facility now has a capacity for 774 inmates, accommodating both male and female prisoners. The expansion included the construction of five barracks for male prisoners and one for female prisoners, with a capacity of 126 and 114, respectively. This expansion has increased the total capacity from 561 to 1335 prisoners in the old jail.

IEP Chandigarh, August 31

With the prestigious G-20 Summit scheduled to take place in New Delhi on September 9 and 10, 2023, commuters planning to visit the National Capital during these days are advised to follow the comprehensive Information, Education and Communication campaign initiated by the Delhi Police. This campaign aims to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience for individuals traveling to Delhi during the Summit.

               A spokesperson of the Haryana Government said that the Delhi Police has established a virtual Traffic Help Desk, accessible at https://traffic.delhipolice.gov.in/dtpg20info, to provide commuters with essential traffic-related information. The Help Desk serves as a valuable resource for visitors seeking real-time updates on traffic conditions, road closures, and alternative routes.

               Furthermore, Delhi Police’s active presence on social media platforms has also been instrumental in disseminating vital information. Commuters can stay informed by following Delhi Police’s official social media handles:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dtptraffic

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dtptraffic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dtptraffic

               To ensure uninterrupted assistance, the Delhi Police has established a dedicated WhatsApp number at 8750871493 and a 24/7 Traffic Helpline at 1095/011-25844444. These channels are in place to address queries, provide guidance, and minimize inconvenience to the general public.

               In addition, commuters seeking real-time traffic updates and navigation assistance can leverage the Mappls Map and MapmyIndia navigation apps, available for both Android and Apple devices.

IEP Chandigarh, August 27

After the successful organization of Khelo India Youth Games, Panchkula situated in the foothills of Shivalik has become the identity of cultural and sports. Now, it is also set to symbolize a drug-free Haryana. In this endeavor, a Raahgiri programme was organized, wherein thousands of people from Panchkula participated and administered a pledge against drug addiction and embraced the patriotic theme of ‘Rang De Basanti’. The event witnessed the enthusiastic presence of women, school children, and enlightened individuals, who collectively took pledge to abstain from plastic usage, promote environmental protection, save and educate daughters.

During this event, Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal graced this occasion as the chief guest. The Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Sh. Gian Chand Gupta, Mayor, Sh. Kulbhushan Goyal, and several other dignitaries also graced the program with their presence.

Kicking off the programme with a cycling event, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Raahgiri programme. During his public address, he said that the programme will now be a regular occurrence and highlighted the ongoing Raahgiri events happening in different cities across the state. Underlining the significance of initiatives like Raahgiri in terms of stress relief and health enhancement, he underscored that maintaining a healthy mind is essential for overall well-being. Moreover, he revealed the forthcoming plans for the Cyclothon programme, set to begin in Karnal on September 1 and spanning a duration of 25 days. This program will cover the entire state, culminating in Yamuna Nagar.

The Raahgiri programme of this year embraced the theme ‘Rang De Basanti’, with the intention of nurturing patriotism within the younger generation. Students from Panchkula enthusiastically paraded the national tricolor during the event, infusing it with even more vitality. The Chief Minister himself wholeheartedly embraced the theme, gracing the stage with a rendition of the song ‘Rang De Basanti’, wherein he interpreted its essence as a clarion call to fulfill one’s responsibilities towards the nation. He spurred on the students to commit to a path of progress, propelled by the unwavering principle of achieving excellence through their pursuits. In recognition of the indispensable roles played by parents, educators, and society at large, he acknowledged their pivotal contributions in supporting this transformative journey.

The event featured 37 stalls focused on patriotism and health benefits, including exhibitions by numerous women self-help groups. The Chief Minister visited a stall showcasing reusable bags, imparting the message of reducing plastic usage. He highlighted the presence of over 55 thousand self-help groups in the state, emphasizing their contribution to self-reliance through products and the government’s provision of timely loans.

Commending India’s feat of successfully landing Chandrayaan-3 on the South Pole of the Moon, the Chief Minister attributed this accomplishment to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the substantial contributions made by the scientists of our country.

Promoting the Fit India – Fit Haryana – Fit Panchkula message, the event included different sports and activities organized by Patanjali Yog Samiti. The Chief Minister joined in yoga sessions and played games with children, inspiring them for a better future. The kids happily took selfies and group pictures with him.

The Raahgiri programme focused not only on ‘Rang De Basanti’ but also emphasized road safety. The Chief Minister met with three talented young athletes from Panchkula who had done well in international competitions. To encourage them, he honoured them special Team Raahgiri T-shirts from his own collection of awards. These accomplished young athletes included Aranya Thakur, who won a silver medal in the Asian Taekwondo Championship in Vietnam, Nidhi Dhul, who secured the 7th position in the Wushu Junior Asian Championship, and Nidhi Dhul, who achieved success in Asian Boxing in Tajikistan.

IEP Chandigarh, August 28

Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal today raised concerns over Congress’s silence on Nuh Violence, even though the involvement of one of its MLAs has been questioned by the Police.

        “Surprisingly, Congress is neither condemning their MLAs whose names have been dragged in this issue, nor they are giving any clarification, ” said Sh. Manohar Lal while addressing a press conference after the Vidhan Sabha session here today.

        The Chief Minister said that not only has one of the Congress MLAs been issued a notice by the police, but fingers are also being pointed at some other MLAs from the party in connection with the Nuh violence incident.

        “Despite these grave allegations, the Congress party has maintained a silence that is raising eyebrows. The absence of a response from them certainly proves that ‘Daal mai kuch kala hai'( something is suspicious),” said Sh. Manohar Lal.

He said that more than 300 people have been arrested in the  Nuh violence and more than 160 FIRs have been registered and some people are being questioned, who are likely to have any connection to this violence.

        Expressing gratitude to the citizens and other social organisations of Nuh for the peaceful conduct of the Shobha Yatra, Sh. Manohar Lal said the government had appealed to the district residents to  maintain peace during the Shobha yatra.

        “I am thankful to Nuh citizens and the social organisation for giving complete cooperation for the peaceful organisation of this Yatra,” said Sh. Manohar Lal.

        He said that the government had appealed to the people that the Jalabhishek should be done in the temples only. 

        “We are grateful to the workers of Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the people of other social institutions and the Saint, Mahatmas, who peacefully completed the Jalabhishek in the temples, ” said Sh. Manohar Lal.

        Responding to the question regarding a demand raised by the Opposition about allowing the judicial inquiry to be initiated under the sitting judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court to investigate the allegations raised against Minister of State Sandeep Singh, the Chief Minister said that the matter is still pending in the court.

However, in any case, an inquiry Commission is constituted once the investigation by the concerned investigating agency is completed. 

        “The investigation in this matter is currently being done by the Haryana Police,  we have full faith in the police,” said Sh. Manohar Lal.

        He said that the bill of Sonipat Metropolitan Development Authority was also introduced in the House today, which will be passed after discussion tomorrow.  Apart from this, it has also been announced to form the Hisar Metropolitan Development Authority in Hisar.

IEP Chandigarh, August 28

In a significant decision, Haryana Chief Minister Mr. Manohar Lal announced that the State Government will be implementing a 20% reservation policy for Group A and B posts to Scheduled Caste category. This decision aims to enhance opportunities of promotions for all reserved categories in higher-level government positions.

Previously, reservation was limited to Group C and D, leaving Group A and B positions without any reservation provisions.

To ensure the effective implementation of this reservation system, he said that the state government is actively working on creating a roster system. The notification in this regard will be released within a week, reflecting the commitment of the government to ensure fair representation.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister emphasized that the new reservation system will extend reservation to all stages of promotions, ensuring continued support and representation for reserved communities in government jobs at all levels.

The State Government’s decision to introduce reservation in Group A and B posts reflects its dedication to fostering a more equitable and diverse administrative framework. This move will provide a positive impact on the representation of various communities within the government workforce.

crops (subject to a ceiling of 2 Ha per farmer) is as below.

He apprised the house that extent of damage of crops from 25% to 50%, a compensation of Rs. 7000/- per acre will be given to the affected farmers, from 50% to 75% damage, a compensation of Rs. 9,000/- will be given and for 75% & above damages Rs. 12,500/- compensation will be ensured. He also informed that the minimum assistance of not less than Rs. 1000/- per farmers in rainfed areas and Rs. 2,000 per farmer in assured irrigated areas and restricted to sown areas. He further informed that no minimum assistance will be provided to the farmers having more than 2 ha of landholding. Further, the area getting crop compensation under insurance scheme shall not be eligible for compensation under the SDRF.

IEP Chandigarh, August 27

          Taking a leap forward towards revamping of education sector, the Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Sunday flagged off the second batch of the Headmasters for expert training at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad.

          Speaking on this occasion after flagging off the batch of headmasters, the Education Minister said that this is the second batch is going to Ahmedabad for upscaling of their expertise. He said that the single motive is to ensure that students of the government schools in the state get quality education so that they can compete with their convent educated peers across the globe.  

          The Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that as good coaches produce excellent players similarly an updated teacher will help in grooming able students for the coming future. He said that there is no dearth of funds with the state government for the education sector and every effort will be made to ensure that students get quality education. He envisioned that due to the strenuous efforts of the state government, the day is not far away when Punjab will emerge as a hub of quality education across the country.

          Kamal Kishore Yadav, Education Secretary Punjab  , Mrs. Gauri Parashar Joshi Special Secretary School Education , Mr. Churchill Kumar Special Secretary School Education , Mr. Sanjeev Sharma Director Education Department (Secondary), Punjab  and Mr. Amanpreet Singh  Director SCERT Punjab  were also present on the occasion.

IEP Chandigarh, August 27

The second batch of 50 headmasters today left for the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmadabad, as part of the Punjab government’s initiative to bring about an education revolution in the state. On this occasion, the teachers going on training session express their gratitude to Punjab government.

          Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Poonam Puri, Head Teacher, Government High School, Tajpur Bhagwanpur, District Jalandhar said, “I am elated that the Punjab Government led by S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is giving this opportunity to the teachers to attend training at world famous Education Center.” She said, with this training, her professional skills will be further nurtured, which will benefit for the students. She said that this is a very good initiative of the government which reflects the positive thinking of the government towards education. Which will yield positive results in the future.

          Similarly, Puneet Garg, head teacher of Government High School Chauhan Ke Khurd in Barnala district, thanked the Punjab government and said that I have been given the opportunity to become the number one institution in the country, IIM. While training from Ahmedabad will give a new direction to the management of the school, I will be able to understand and deal with all kinds of problems of the students.

          She said that through this training, I will also be able to work towards improving the educational environment in the school.

          Prabhjot Kaur, head teacher of Government High School Basti Bawa Khel in Jalandhar district, said that this training will teach us to make better use of human resources. She said that through this training, she will be able to understand students and teachers better. She said that the better the training of the head of the school, the more the staff and students will benefit.

          Ramesh Singh, head teacher of Government High School Ghanola in Rupnagar district, said that learning new skills is essential. Updation done keeping in mind the future proves to be even more beneficial. He said this training will yield very meaningful results.

          Gurpal Singh, head teacher of Government High School Chak Bakhtu in Bathinda district, said, “If we do not update us with time, we will not be able to teach the children about the importance of time.” What we will learn through this training, we will teach the children, which is expected to yield good results in the future.

          Sometimes we are unable to solve some problems but this training will enable us to solve those problems.

          Gurpreet Kaur, Head Teacher, Government High School, Cheema Kalan, Patti, Tarn Taran district, said, “I am very thankful to the Punjab government for giving me the opportunity to get education in the world’s best educational institution at their  own expense. She said that this training will make them aware of the latest education techniques of the world.

IEP Chandigarh, August 24

Exuberating with results of the Pilot Project of Surface Seeder, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday gave his consent to subsidize Surface Seeders developed by Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana under Crop Residue Management (CRM) Scheme for better management of crop residue across the state.

Announcing to provide 50% subsidy on this newly developed technique, the Chief Minister said that in view of the results of the pilot project implemented at Satauj (Sangrur), the Surface Seeders proved its worth to manage the crop residue and the state government has decided to include Surface Seeder under CRM Scheme to subsidize the equipment, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that a machine costs Rs. 80,000 and after 50% subsidy it will cost Rs. 40,000 to the farmers.

Lauding the efforts of the Agriculture Department and PAU about the Crop Residue Management in a meeting with agriculture officials, the Chief Minister said that Punjab Agriculture University recommended the Surface Seeders to be included under CRM scheme. He informed that the process for empanelment of manufacturers for supplying the machinery under the scheme is being done by PAU, Ludhiana. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the individual farmers/Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies/ Registered Farmers Groups/Farmer Producer Organizations/Panchayats can apply for purchasing various CRM machines and also for establishing Custom Hiring Centre (CHC).

The Chief Minister further said that under the scheme the equipment such as Super SMS, Super Seeder, Smart Seeder, Happy Seeder, Zero Till Drill, Paddy Straw Chopper/Shredder/Mulcher, Hydraulic Reversible Mould Board Plough, Shrub Master/Rotary Slasher, Crop Reaper, Balerand Rakeare available on subsidy @ 50% of the cost of the equipment/machine or a maximum amount approved by Union Government in the guidelines. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the CHC can be established with an investment of Rs.15 lakhs and any of the above machines can be purchased by the CHCs @ 80% subsidy.

The Chief Minister further informed that a total of 65421 applications for 152300 various CRM equipments have been received so far and no stone would be left unturned to save the environment with complete control on crop residue burning. He said that the state government has been strengthening and establishing collection infrastructure, bailing, transportation and handling of large amount of crop residue and creation of storage facilities. He said that the state government has started to utilize the paddy straw in different industries such as biomass power generation units, Biomass co-firing in Thermal Power Plants, Bio-CNG and Bio-Ethanol etc. Bhagwant Singh Mann also announced to organize next edition of Kisan Melas throughout the state soon.

IEP Chandigarh, August 23

          Today, Dr. Baljit Kaur, the Minister of Social Security, Women, and Child Development, unveiled a short film and a poster aimed at raising awareness about the Senior Citizens Act of 2007. The objective behind this initiative is to inform the senior citizens of the state about their rights.

          During the event, the Cabinet Minister highlighted that the government has implemented the Parenting and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act of 2007 to honor and safeguard the rights of the elderly. This legislation includes provisions for obtaining a maintenance allowance for parents and senior citizens who are neglected by their children or blood relatives.

          The Cabinet Minister further explained that the act has established maintenance and appellant tribunals to address the concerns of senior citizens. Any senior citizen facing problems can file a complaint with the sub-divisional officer of the relevant sub-division.

          Moreover, the Cabinet Minister mentioned that the District Social Security Officer has been designated as the Parenting Officer under this act. This role involves ensuring that the basic needs of elderly citizens, such as food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare, are met adequately.

          The event was attended by Ms. Madhvi Kataria, Director of the Social Security, Women, and Child Development Department, Mr. Gaurav Toora, AIG (Personnel-2), and Mr. Charanjit Singh, Additional Director of the Social Security, Women, and Child Development Department.