Tag Archives: Chandigarh

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra: Centre Govt reaches out to people at grassroots level, says PIB ADG Rajinder Chaudhry

IEP Chandigarh

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Chandigarh organized a “Vartalaap” media workshop today in Chandigarh, with Sri Rajinder Chaudhry, Additional Director General (ADG) of PIB, presiding over the event. Shri Yashu Deep Singh, IFS, Protector of Migrants, Chandigarh, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. This gathering marked a pivotal moment as PIB Chandigarh extended invitations to regional beneficiaries who have been invited to participate in the Republic Day parade 2024.

The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Shri Rajinder Chaudhry and Shri Yashu Deep Singh, symbolizing the illumination of progress and prosperity. Following this, ADG Sh Rajinder Chaudhry delivered an insightful presentation, highlighting the achievements of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY). He underscored the government’s commitment to reaching the last mile and ensuring that services are provided effectively. “VBSY has been a journey of empowerment, where the government has reached out to people at the grassroots level. The emphasis has been on inclusivity, ensuring that the benefits of various schemes reach every corner of the nation,” he stated. The elaborate presentation detailed how the government’s efforts have touched the lives of over 15 crore individuals, a testament to the success of the initiative in fostering inclusive development.

Underscoring the remarkable achievements of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY), ADG Sh Rajinder Chaudhry shed light on the multifaceted impact of the journey. He revealed that during the Yatra, there were more than 1.2 lakh drone demonstrations, showcasing the government’s innovative approach to public engagement. Additionally, an impressive number of over 11 crore people actively participated in the Sankalp pledge, demonstrating a collective commitment to the nation’s progress.

Choudhary further highlighted the substantial efforts in healthcare, sharing that more than four crore people were screened in Health Camps, showcasing the government’s proactive stance on public health. The issuance of approx two crore Ayushman Bharat cards was another significant milestone, providing citizens with access to essential healthcare services.

In the Vartalap, Sh. Yashu Deep Singh, IFS, Protector of Emigrants, Ministry of External Affairs, Chandigarh, unveiled an alarming trend wherein overseas job seekers are increasingly falling victim to unscrupulous recruitment agents deploying deceptive practices. Singh emphasized the severity of the situation, revealing, “We have observed a significant surge in cases where overseas job seekers are being swindled by unregistered recruitment agents through the use of counterfeit job offers, coupled with exorbitant overcharging ranging from Rs. 2 to 5 lakhs or more.”

Singh outlined the prerequisites for a legitimate job offer, including transparent terms and conditions, salary details, and the provision of a proper employment or work visa. In an effort to safeguard emigrant workers, Singh strongly encouraged them to exclusively seek services from registered recruiting agents, identifiable by prominently displayed license numbers. Prospective emigrants were advised to cross-verify the authenticity of recruiting agents through official government channels or by visiting the dedicated website www.emigrate.gov.in or PBSK Portal at www.pbsk.gov.in/home .” Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to worker protection, highlighting the mandatory requirement for registered agents to purchase Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) for migrant workers. This insurance provides various benefits, including a Rs. 10 Lakh sum assured on death cases. He called upon the media to play a vital role in generating awareness among the public and underscored the importance of the Helpline 1800113090, urging people to report any complaints promptly.

PIB Chandigarh has called regional beneficiaries who have been invited to participate in the Republic Day parade 2024. The beneficiaries, including Tania Singla under PM Fasal Bima Yojana, Sunil Kumar under PM Krishi Shichayi Yojana, Jaswinder Kaur under PM Awas Yojana Rural, Sheela Bhoj under PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Raj Bahadur under PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Kiran under PM Vishwakarma Yojana, Vishal Kumar under PM Vishwakarma Yojana, and Vinod under PM Vishwakarma Yojana, shared their experiences with the media, elaborating on how these government schemes have positively impacted their lives.

These beneficiaries provided firsthand accounts of the tangible benefits derived from schemes that cater to agriculture, housing, and vocational empowerment. The Vartalaap served as a platform for these individuals to express their gratitude for the transformative impact of the initiatives, demonstrating the success of the government’s efforts in reaching and uplifting citizens from various walks of life.

Road accidents surged by 12 pc in 2022; 19 persons die every hour in India

IEP Chandigarh

India accounts for a mere three percent of the world’s vehicular population, but a shocking, the number of road accidents in India surged by 12 per cent to 4.6 lakh in 2022, resulting in the death of 19 persons every hour. The highest number of road accidents every year is attributed to negligent driving and speeding. This raises a big concern over road safety in India. Reports also suggest that public transport, like buses, was safer than private modes of conveyance, like motorcycles, cars etc. Experts say, taking care of yourself while driving is the most important thing to do by using safety accessories in the car. And one must know the safety functions like airbags and seat belts in the car. In India, people wearing seat belts are a rare sight. All the cars have rear seat belts (back seat belts), but very few people are using them.

Meanwhile, 16,715 people lost their lives in road accidents last year due to not wearing seat belts, while 50,029 individuals met their demise in accidents where helmets were not worn. Out of these casualties, 35,692, or 71.3 per cent, were riding two-wheelers. Among the States, Tamil Nadu registered the highest number of road accidents on National Highways in 2022.

Conversely, the highest number of fatalities in road accidents occurred in Uttar Pradesh. The report points out that from a road safety standpoint, violations like over speeding and driving on the wrong side are not solely attributable to human error, but may also be attributed to a lack of education and enforcement.

Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, running red lights, and using mobile phones collectively accounted for 7.4 per cent of total accidents and 8.3 per cent of total deaths, according to the report. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has set a target to halve the number of accidents and resulting deaths in the country by 2024.

The annual report is based on data and information received from the police departments of States and Union Territories on a yearly basis, following standardised formats provided by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) as part of the Asia Pacific Road Accident Data (APRAD) base project.

In 2022, a total of 4,61,312 road accidents occurred, resulting in 1,68,491 fatalities and 4,43,366 injuries. According to the report titled “Road accidents in India 2022”, “over speeding” accounted for 72.3 per cent of the road accidents, 71.2 per cent of the deaths, and 72.8 per cent of total injuries. Among the casualties, 8,384 were drivers, the remaining 8,331 were passengers. The report revealed that 53 road accidents took place every hour in the country. It further mentioned, “A total of 4,61,312 road accidents have been reported by States and Union Territories (UTs) during the calendar year 2022, which claimed 1,68,491 lives and caused injuries to 4,43,366 persons. This marks an increase of 11.9 per cent in accidents, 9.4 per cent in fatalities, and 15.3 per cent in injuries compared to the previous year,” as stated in the report. For the fourth consecutive year in 2022, the victims of fatal road accidents were predominantly young people in the productive age groups. The report stated, “Young adults in the age group of 18-45 years accounted for 66.5 per cent of victims during 2022,” and added that individuals in the working age group of 18 – 60 years constituted 83.4 per cent of total road accident fatalities.

According to the report, in 2022, a total of 4,61,312 accidents were recorded in the country. Out of these, 1,51,997 (32.9 per cent) took place on National Highways (NH), including expressways, 1,06,682 (23.1 per cent) on State highways, and the remaining 2,02,633 (43.9 per cent) on other roads. The report said, “Out of the total of 1, 68, 491 fatalities reported in 2022, 61,038 (36.2 per cent) were on national highways, 41,012 (24.3 per cent) were on state highways, and 66,441 (39.4 per cent) were on other roads.”

Regarding the vehicle categories involved in road accidents, two-wheelers, for the second consecutive year, accounted for the highest share in total accidents and fatalities during 2022. The report indicated that light vehicles, including cars, jeeps, and taxis, collectively came in a distant second place. In terms of road-user categories, it was reported that the share of two-wheeler riders in total fatalities was the highest (44.5 per cent) during 2022, followed by pedestrian roadusers, accounting for 19.5 per cent of individuals killed in road accidents. The report stated, “Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of road accidents in 2022 with 64,105 cases (13.9 per cent), followed by Madhya Pradesh with 54,432 cases (11.8 per cent).    Input from agencies

PGI fire incidents: Committee’s report attributes cause of fires to UPS batteries

IEP Chandigarh October 25

Around two weeks after a major fire broke out at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER’s) Nehru block, necessitating the evacuation of over 400 patients on the intervening night of October 9/10 and another fire incident that happened in Advanced Eye Centre on October 16, the committee comprising 14 members headed by acting Dean Academics Naresh Panda has attributed the cause of recent fires to batteries, particularly UPS batteries. The committee has additionally pinpointed several specific areas within the hospital premises where UPS batteries could potentially contribute to major fire incidents.

Interacting with the media persons, PGIMER director Dr Vivek Lal said that the Committee has recommended plethora of measures for fire-safety including continuous & comprehensive upgradation of systems. The entire upkeep of the UPS battery systems backup has been handed over to the biomedical division and UPS batteries being identified as the hot-spot, are being shifted from the premises to safer places or at the edge of the buildings so that the smoke goes out in case of fire. Most of the work in this regard has been initiated, he added.

Hry DGP pays homage to immortal police martyrs on Police Martyrdom Day

Chandigarh October 21

Haryana Director General of Police (DGP), Shatrujeet Kapur, unequivocally reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of police personnel and the families who have made the ultimate sacrifice.. He lauded the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Shri Manohar Lal and the insightful guidance of Home Minister Anil Vij for their instrumental roles in the seamless implementation of a range of welfare initiatives. In the unfortunate event of an employee’s martyrdom, the bereaved family not only receives job security but also a pension, in addition to substantial financial assistance amounting to Rs 1 crore 30 lakh. Furthermore, for cases of accidental fatalities involving contract-based employees within the police department, a  financial aid of Rs 50 lakh is extended to support the dependent family.

He was speaking after paying homage to the immortal police martyrs by laying a wreath at the ‘Police Martyr Memorial’ on the solemn occasion of Police Martyrdom Day, held at Police Lines, Panchkula. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by 188 valiant martyrs of the Indian Police Force.

पिछले 5 वर्षाें में देशभर के 1250 से अधिक पुलिसकर्मी तथा हरियाणा में 7 पुलिसकर्मी शहीद हुए

Chandigarh October 20

पुलिस महानिदेशक ने बताया कि पुलिस शहीदी दिवस के अवसर पर सभी प्रदेशों में ड्यूटी के दौरान शहीद होने वाले पुलिसकर्मियों को श्रद्धांजलि अर्पित की जाएगी। इस मौके पर प्रदेश के सभी जिलों में पुलिस लाइन में पुलिस शहीदी दिवस मनाया जाएगा। उन्होंने बताया कि पंचकूला में आयोजित किए जाने वाले राज्य स्तरीय पुलिस शहीदी दिवस के अवसर पर पिछले वर्ष देश भर में  शहीद  हुए 188 पुलिसकर्मियों को श्रद्धांजलि दी जाएगी। उन्होंने आंकड़े सांझा करते हुए बताया कि पिछले 5 वर्षाें में देशभर के 1250 से अधिक पुलिसकर्मी तथा हरियाणा में 7 पुलिसकर्मी शहीद हुए। उन्होंने बताया कि हरियाणा प्रदेश बनने से लेकर अब तक 83 पुलिसकर्मियों ने अपने प्राणों का बलिदान दिया।

 गौरतलब है कि 21 अक्तूबर 1959 को भारत-तिब्बत सीमा पर लद्दाख के क्षेत्र में केन्द्रीय रिजर्व पुलिस बल के दस जवान सीमा पर गश्त करते समय चीनी सैनिकों द्वारा घात लगाकर किए गए हमले का शिकार हुए थे। तभी से 21 अक्तूबर को पुलिस शहीदी दिवस के रूप में मनाने की परम्परा आरम्भ हुई थी। तब से आज तक देश में लगभग 36 हजार 214 पुलिसकर्मियों ने कर्त्तव्य की वेदी पर सर्वाेच्च बलिदान दिया है। इन वीर सपूतों की कर्मभूमि कश्मीर की पहाड़ियों से लेकर नागालैंड और मणिपुर के घने जंगलों तक व चम्बल के बीहड़ों से लेकर कच्छ के रण तक रही है। इन्होंने हर समय आतंकवादियों, उग्रवादियों, अपराधियों व असमाजिक तत्वों से निपटते हुए भारत के जनमानस और भारत माता की सेवा की है। इनमें केन्द्र पुलिस संगठन के तहत कार्यरत बल जैसे भारत तिब्बत सीमा बल, सीआरपीएफ , सीआईएसएफ तथा बीएसएफ के जवान भी शामिल हैं।

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to visit Karnal on Nov 2

Chandigarh October 21

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit the State on November 2 to participate in the Antyodaya Sammelan scheduled to be held in Karnal. He said a big Sammelan will be organized in which beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat, pension schemes, and other related welfare schemes will be invited.

Addressing media persons after attending the felicitation ceremony for the players held at Karnal, Khattar stated that Haryana had requested the Union Home Minister to visit on Haryana Day, which falls on November 1, but Shah’s schedule was busy.

Sardar Bhagwant Singh Memorial Basketball Trophy 2023 concludes

IEP Chandigarh, October 20

The Sardar Bhagwant Singh Memorial Basketball Trophy (BSMBT) 2023 being held in the city concluded on Friday at the Sports Complex, Sector 42, Chandigarh. On the final day of the tournament, the players enthusiastically displayed their strength and basketball prowess. The final matches kept the audience riveted until the very end .

A joint conference Agricultural Marketing Boards of 6 states held in Hry

Chandigarh October 20

The efforts of Haryana’s Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister JP Dalal, to prepare a marketing platform for farmers for their produce saw significant success today. This success was evident when Chairpersons of Agriculture Marketing Boards from 6 states gathered in Panchkula, under the aegis of the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board.

        While inaugurating the event, Dalal mentioned that the Haryana government is striving to develop mandis within a 15-20-kilometer radius. He emphasized the need for all state Agriculture Marketing Boards to create a shared fund to promote the progress of farmers, stressing the importance of sharing infrastructure.

Shopkeepers told to strictly adhere to FSSAI Measures

IEP Chandigarh

In consonance of the directions given by the Deputy Commissioner Mrs Aashika Jain to ensure the quality of food products in wake of festive season, a food safety team led by Sub Divisional Magistrate, Mohali, Ms Chandrajyoti Singh carried out surprise checks at sweetmeat shops of Banur on Wednesday.

Divulging the details, the SDM Mohali said that the inspection was aimed at ensuring the quality and standards of the manufacturing of sweets as per the guidelines laid down under the Food Safety and Standards Act of India. 

Olive Cafe & Bar, the white-walled wonderland, turns 1

IEP Chandigarh, August 22, 2023

One year, much love and the Olive Café & Bar, Chandigarh is saying thank you with delightful lucky dip birthday treats, yes! you have a chance to win a meal for four and other surprises; live music; cake cutting; photo booth to make some memories with polaroid giveaways.  Dance with their staff flash mobs and pair all this with delicious food and cocktails. Follow @olivecafechandigarh for yummy updates

The Olive Café & Bar with a laid back, friendly vibe is a place where good food, laughter, culture and conversations come together in a delightful melting pot.

A gourmet café menu by chef Jyotika Malik & Anubhav Moza; hand-crafted cocktails and a robust wine list by lead mixologist Harish Chhimwal are some of its everyday elements. Come here for a leisurely lunch in the sun-dappled courtyard, a romantic dinner for two with live grills under the stars, or a raucous evening with friends at the bar.

Says AD Singh, Founder & MD of The Olive Group of restaurants, “Olive is a way of life and an experience where we bring together good food, delicious & fresh cocktails, warmth, fun and hospitality as it should be. We are absolutely delighted to partner with Vishal Anand and Sampat Singh and are looking forward to our anniversary celebrations.”

As Olive Bar & Café turns 1, here are a few reasons why it’s a must visit.

Food and drink are at the core with its delicious Med-meets-European-and-the-world menu. Must try innovative, signature cocktails like the Teq-tonics (move over G&Ts), Sorbet Gin-Tos and the Popcorn Party which is an ode to the beautiful city with corn and fat washed mustard! Their seasonal menus like Sunshine on a Plate, winter menu or the Colours of Summer, summer menu keeps it fresh.

Culinary and sensory experiences: Christmas where the restaurant transformed into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, captivating guests with a week-long celebration; Valentine’s Day in 2023, which featured an exclusive Valentine’s menu in a picturesque setting, with live music & festive cocktails.

The beverage programme at OCB is par excellence. They work with seasonal ingredients and superior bar practices, which include no use of synthetics and house made cordials and liqueurs. They plan to do an interesting beverage festival every quarter, as the first one, the chocolate cocktail festival was a hit.

Moonlit Magic on Mondays have been a big draw where for one night a week Olive goes dark and you can dine under the stars in candle light. All special occasions and topical events like special brunches, earth day, chocolate day etc. are marked with a treat on the house for our guests. Coming up: Winter brunches.