Monthly honorarium of Nambardars raised

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 30
       Conceding the long pending demand of the Nambardars, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to enhance the monthly honorarium of Nambardars from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 from January 01, 2015.
       A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a meeting with the delegation of Punjab Nambardars' Union led by its President Mr. Gurpal Singh Samra here at Punjab Bhawan this evening.
       Responding to another demand regarding the release of their arrears on account of their outstanding honorarium, the Chief Minister asked the Financial Commissioner Revenue to ensure its clearance positively by December 31, 2014.
       The Chief Minister also asked the Revenue Department to issue guidelines to all the Deputy Commissioners for giving due representation to the District President of Nambardars' Union in the Grievances Committees and other forums related to the citizen centric services at the district level. Mr. Badal also gave nod to extend the facility of allowing Nambardars to go abroad for a year instead of six months and also authorized them to appoint their Sarbrahs (representatives) in their place to enable them to discharge their duties during the period of absence.
       The Chief Minister also assured the delegation that their other demands would be looked into sympathetically by the Revenue Department.
       The delegation thanked the Chief Minister for positive outcome of their demands and assured him that  they would leave no stone unturned in discharging their duties diligently in the public interest.
       Prominent amongst who attended the meeting included FCR Mr. NS Kang, Principal Secretary to CM Mr. SK Sandhu, Secretary Expenditure Mr. Jaspal Singh, Secretary Grievances Mr. Mandeep Singh Sidhu, Special Principal Secretary to CM Mr. Ajoy Sharma and Special Secretary Revenue Mr. SS Khara.
------balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Badal makes surprise check at Mini Civil Secretariat

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 30

Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today made a surprise check here at the Mini Civil Secretariat at sharp 09:05 am and found 14 senior officers absent from their offices.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that this move was aimed at ensuring punctuality and discipline in the government offices besides fulfilling the commitment of the state government for prompt deliverance of citizen centric services and redressal of public grievances.

Senior officers who were not found present in their offices during the Chief Minister's surprise check included; Principal Secretary Defense Services Mr. SR Ladhar, Principal Secretary Housing & Urban Development Mr. A. Venu Prasad, Principal Secretary Surplus Pool Mr. Dharamvir, Principal Secretary Jails & General Administration Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Secretary Transport Mr. Anurag Aggarwal, Secretary Freedom Fighters Mr. VK Janjua, Secretary Finance Mr. JM Balamurgam, Special Secretary PWD (B&R) Mr. HS Kandhola, Special Secretary Transport Dr. Amarpal Singh, Special Secretary Higher Education Mr. Chander Gaind, Special Secretary Civil Aviation Mr. APS Virk, Secretary School Education Mr. Rahul Bhandari, Additional Secretary Health & Family Welfare Mr. Avtar Chand Sharma and OSD litigation (Health) Mr. RL Mehta.

Meanwhile, the officers who were present in their offices included Principal Secretary School Education Mrs. Anjali Bhawra, Principal Secretary Higher Education Dr. Roshan Sunkaria, Principal Secretary Governance Reforms Mr. C Roul, Financial Commissioner Animal Husbandry, Fisheries & Dairy Mr. G. Vajralingam, Financial Commissioner Development Mr. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary  Parliamentary Affairs Mrs. Ravneet Kaur, Principal Secretary Forests & Civil Aviation Mr. Viswajit  Khanna, Secretary Technical Education Mr. RK Verma, Secretary Food & Civil Supplies Mr. DS Grewal, Secretary Local Government Mr. Ashok Kumar Gupta, Special Secretary Health Mr. Vikas Garg, Secretary Animal Husbandry Mr. VK Meena, Secretary Grievances Mr. Mandeep Singh, Special Secretary Agriculture Mr. Daljit Singh, Special Secretary Local Government Mr. Prem Chand Arora, OSD litigation Mr. Vinod Bhalla besides Special Secretary-cum-Director Welfare of SC/BC Mr. Pirthi Chand and Secretary Irrigation Mr. Balwinder Singh Multani were also found present in their offices on the last day of their superannuation and the Chief Minister wished them a happy, prosperous and healthy retired life.

The Chief Minister also interacted with the officials present in their offices, to know their problems and hardships coming in way of discharging their duties. 

The Chief Minister also checked the Civil Dispensary at Mini Secretariat and found all the doctors and paramedics present while barring few junior employees, the entire staff of National Informatics Centre (NIC) was absent.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu and Special Principal Secretary Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar.

Meanwhile, Mr. Badal also impressed upon the officers and officials to discharge their duties with utmost dedication, commitment, honestly and sincerity in the larger public interest besides redressing the grievances of the people in an effective manner. 

----balbirsingh227@gmail.com

SIT to enquire Moga incident

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 29
The Punjab Police has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to enquire in to FIR No. 125 u/s 307, 148, 149, 186, 353, 332 IPC and 25, 27/54/59 Arms Act PS Moga South dated 26th June. The SIT is comprised Mr Harjit Singh Pannu, SP/D, Moa, Mr. Rashpal Singh, DSP/Dharmkot and Inspectror Jatinderjit Singh, SHO, PS Moga South.
According to an office order of Office of ADGP, Law & Order, the investigations by the SIT would be carried out under the supervision of Mr. Mohnish Chawla, DIG/ Ferozepur Range and Mr Gursharn Singh Sandhu, SSP, Moga. The DIG/ Border Range would submit its report by July 20 to the ADgP/L&O.

===balbirsngh227@gmail.com

27.5 kg heroin in transit from Pakistan to Rajasthan seized

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 29
In a 10-day operation launched by the Punjab Police, a major national/international drug smuggling network has been broken. On June 27, one kingpin of this smuggling racket – Amandeep Singh R/o Kot Dharam Chand, District Tarn Taran was arrested. 11 kg heroin was seized from him. Also, one Alto vehicle and a mobile with Pakistani SIM card were recovered.
Disclosing this here today, Mr. Dinkar Gupta, ADGP/Law & Order said that today in furtherance of the ongoing operation, the District Tarn Taran Police intercepted and arrested the following top smugglers namely Hardeep Singh @ Perry R/o 1048, New Partap Nagar, Amritsar, Heera Singh R/o Muradpura, City Tarn Taran and Gurbinder Singh @ Binder R/o Mallian, District Tarn Taran, Buta Singh R/o Dholan, Tarn Taran. These 4 smugglers were in 2 vehicles, a Duster and a Bolero. 16 Kg heroin and one Chinese .30 Pistol were seized from them. They were intercepted by a police party of District Tarn Taran at Kapurthala Chowk, Goindwal Sahib.
The ADGP/Law & Order said that preliminary investigations have revealed that the seized heroin (27 kg) originated from two Lahore based smugglers, ‘Kalu Chairman’ and ‘Nasir’. The heroin was pushed across the border from Muzzafarabad (J & K) and was to be taken initially to Jaisalmer where the Pakistani smugglers (Kalu Chairman and Nasir) had arranged that the heroin be delivered to one smuggler ‘Kheru’ R/o Jaisalmer and his associates based in Rajasthan.
He said that Hardeep Singh @ Perry’s father, Paramjit Singh, was a convict in a narcotics case and was presently lodged in Burail Jail, Chandigarh. Along with Paramjit Singh one Festus Benson, a Burundi national, was also undergoing sentence in the same narcotics case. Hardeep Singh @ Perry used to meet his father Paramjit Singh and the Burundi national Festus in Burail Jail. Through them his contact was established with one Samuan (also a Burundi national), who was a relative of Festus. Samuan was in India earlier but about 3 months back had gone back to Burundi. This group of smugglers had established contact with Samuan in order to further send this consignment of 27 kg heroin in the international market.
He further said that one Parkash Singh Bhatia @ Sunny R/o Katra Jaimal Singh, Amritsar has been arrested today. He was the hawala dealer for this group of smugglers. The arrangement was that Samuan R/o Burundi used to make payment through dollars for drugs received to Gurbaksh Singh Bhatia who in turn would give the same amount in Rupees to this group of smugglers. Half kg of heroin which had been earlier left by this group of smugglers with him for ‘safe keeping’ has been seized.
The ADGP/Law & Order said that Police parties have been despatched to Rajasthan, J & K and Delhi for further and related investigations.Operations against organised smuggling networks being carried out by the field formations are being coordinated by the Intelligence Wing of the Punjab Police.
Meanwhile, the DGP Punjab has promoted six officials of the Tarn Taran Police and ASI Ajaib Singh has been awarded DGP’s Commendation Disc.
After the crackdown to completely break the supply line to the consumers, there is no availability of drugs in the streets. Resultantly, former consumers are going to de-addiction centres for treatment. Till June 28, more than 70 thousand former drug consumers have availed of the free de-addiction facilities provided by the government.
About 18000 of such former consumers have been motivated, mobilised and sent to the de-addiction centres by the officers of the Punjab Police who are touring every village of the State for this purpose.
The Punjab Police is launching a campaign for rehabilitation of the former consumers w.e.f. 05.07.2014. Gazetted officers have been deputed to visit every village of the State and in consultation with the village Panchayats and elders, work out proper rehabilitation programme on the grass root level which would include exercise, sports and other measures and activities to keep them occupied so that they do not attempt any relapse. Non-availability of the intoxicants in the streets shall be ensured.

====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Chairpersons of two boards and corporation approved

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 29

The Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, today gave his nod to appoint chairpersons of the two Boards and Corporations of the state government.

          Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that the file pertaining to the appointment of these chairpersons was cleared by the Chief Minister this morning. As per the orders, Mr. Dilbagh Hussain has been appointed the Chairman of newly constituted Muslim Welfare and Development Board whereas Mr. Surinder Singh Pehalwan has been appointed the Chairman of Punjab Mulaazam Bhalai Board.

          Likewise, Mrs. Surinder Kaur Dyaal has been appointed the member of the Punjab State Subordinate Services Selection Board.

The formal orders regarding these appointments would be issued soon, added the spokesperson. 

=====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Major reprieve to sugarcane growers

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 29

          In a major reprieve to the sugarcane growers across the state, the Punjab Chief Minster Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today announced to clear the outstanding arrears of the farmers to the tune of Rs 148. 50 crore, for the crushing season 2013-14, positively within a week.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s Office said that Mr. Badal asked the Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner Finance to ensure the instant payment of Sugarcane in future to the farmers as in the case of wheat and paddy.

It may be recalled that out of Rs 464 crore on account of the total cost of sugarcane purchased by the state Cooperative Mills, Rs 250.50 crore had already been cleared by these mills and Rs 38 crore had been paid by the state government from its treasury besides Rs 27 crore by the State Cooperative Bank under Government of India’s (GoI) interest free loan scheme of NABARD. Now the balance amount of Rs 148. 50 crore would be cleared by the state government within a week on the directive of Chief Minister.

Likewise, in another significant decision the Chief Minister also ordered the Social Security and Welfare departments to clear all the pending payments on account of financial assistance under the various social security and welfare schemes. He also asked the Secretaries of these departments to ensure the prompt release of the said arrears to the beneficiaries.

===balbirsingh227@gmail.com

CM okays for transfer, posting and additional charges for 8 IAS Officers

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 29

         The Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, today gave his nod for transfers, postings and allocation of additional charge to the eight IAS officers of the state government.

Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office said that these transfers, postings and additional charges have been given in view of the larger public interest. The list of the officers given new postings and additional charges were as under:

Serial Number	Name of the Officer	Current Posting	New Posting
1)	Mr. Rakesh Verma IAS	Secretary Technical Education and Industrial Training	Secretary Technical Education and Industrial Training. Additional Charge Secretary Medical Education and Research.
2)	Mr. Kahan Singh Pannu IAS	MD Punjab Agro and Secretary Sports	MD Punjab Agro and Secretary Sports. Additional Charge Secretary Irrigation
3)	Mr. Deepinder Singh IAS	Secretary Mandi Board	Secretary Mandi Board. Additional Charge MD Warehousing Corporation
4)	Mr. C Siban IAS	Special Secretary Home	Director Rural Development and Panchayats
5)	Mr. GK Singh IAS	Available for posting	Director General School Education
6)	Mrs. Indu Malhotra IAS	Available for posting	Commissioner Municipal Corporation Patiala
7)	Mr. APS Virk IAS	Additional Director and Special Secretary Civil Aviation	Additional Director and Special Secretary Civil Aviation. Additional Charge Director Land Records
8)	Mr. Ashwani Kumar IAS	Joint Principal Secretary/ Deputy Chief Minister and Director Information and Public Relations	Joint Principal Secretary/ Deputy Chief Minister and Director Information and Public Relations. Additional Charge State Transport Commissioner

PVF Vietnam beat AIFF XI by 3-0

NEW DELHI, JUNE 28AIFF XI went down 0-3 to PVF Vietnam in an away-match of the Asia Champions Trophy in Vietnam on Saturday. The hosts who led one-nil at the interval pumped in two more in the second half to seal the fate.
PVF Vietnam surged into the lead in the 34th minute. With both the teams playing in equal terms till then, AIFF XI saw an opportunity to attack at the rival citadel. But even as the buildup was gaining momentum, a mispass allowed PVF to regroup. AIFF XI, caught on the counter, tried desperate to keep it at bay and in the process, the nimble-footed Bguyen Vu Tin was brought down in the box by Jerry Lalrinzuala.
Ngo Tung Quoc converted from the spot as both PVF went into the interval enjoying the one-goal cushion.
Changing over, Head Coach Goutam Ghosh introduced a double substitution in the 55th minute. While Nijwm Muchahary, AIFF XI’s goalscorer against PVF Vietnam in the home-match in Barasat replaced Bedashwor Singh, Deependra Singh Negi came in for Aaron Rodrigues.
It almost paid dividends within five minutes as Captain Edmund Lalrindika and Krishna Pandit combined well and broke into the rival box. But even as an Edmund outstretched himself to tap in Krishna’s cross, it was just that shade longer for him.
However, AIFF XI couldn’t sustain the momentum as PVF scored two almost immediately, that too within a span of three minutes to take a 3-0 lead by the 72nd minute.
First Pham Trong Hoa made it 2-0 in the 69th minute. PVF earned a free-kick from around 30 yards and the ball hit the wall before falling to Hoa who slotted it home.
Three minutes later, PVF scored their third goal. Nguyen Van Thinh followed Hoa’s through pass to place it in.
AIFF XI: Dheeraj Singh, Amey Ranawade, Amit Tudu, Jayananda Singh, Jerry Lalrinzuala, Anirudh Thapa, Prosenjit Chakraborty, Aaron Rodrigues (Deependra Singh Negi – 55th), Edmund Lalrindika (Captain) (Kishan Singh – 65th), Krishna Pandit, Bedashwor Singh (Nijwm Muchahary – 55th).

Badal slams Capt Amarinder Singh for supporting formation of separate GPC in Haryana

BATALA, JUNE 28

          Slamming the Lok Sabha Member Parliament Captain Amarinder Singh for supporting the formation of separate Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee in Haryana, the Punjab Chief Minister, Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, today said that the former Chief Minister was not aware of the glorious history of supreme sacrifices made by the Sikhs for the constitution of Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (SGPC) during the British Raj.

          Interacting with the media persons after attending the bhog of senior Akali leader Mr. Kulbir Singh Randhawa’s mother here today, the Chief Minister said that all those people who were supporting this sinister move of the Haryana Congress government to constitute the separate body for Gurudwara management in the state were totally unaware about the Gurudwara Act passed by the Indian Parliament. He said that even the Sikhs of Haryana were against this politically motivated move of Haryana Congress government due to which the Shiromani Akali Dal had swept all the seats in Haryana during SGPC elections. Mr. Badal said that any political leader who has even little respect for the panth should refrain from issuing statement on this issue, which could make irreparable damage to the SGPC.

          On a query regarding the Punjabis trapped in Iraq, the Chief Minister said that the state government was committed for ensuring the safe and prompt release of all these Punjabis back to their motherland. Mr. Badal said that he was constantly in touch with the Union External Ministry over this issue and no stone would be left unturned to ensure that these sons of the soil return back to their homes safely. He said that the state government has also offered to bear the entire expenditure of bringing these Punjabis, stuck up in Iraq, back to their motherland.

          On the issue of expectation of feeble monsoon this year, the Chief Minister said that none of the government has any control over this issue. However, Mr. Badal said that in order to ensure regular supply of power to the farmers in the ongoing paddy season, he had already directed the PSPCL to ensure 8 hours of minimum regular power supply to them.

When asked about the performance of Mr. Narendra Modi led Government at the centre in last one month, the Chief Minister said that it was too early to comment on this issue. He said that it takes some time for every government to restore the things in order adding that one month’s time was too short to judge any government’s performance.

          Responding to a query regarding the shootout incident in Moga, the Chief Minister said that a three member SIT headed by an Inspector General (IG) Rank officer of the Police has been constituted to probe into the matter.

          Reiterating the firm commitment of the state government to eradicate the menace of drugs from Punjab, the Chief Minister said that the state government has already declared a war against drugs to make Punjab a drug free state. Likewise, he said that the state government was also making special efforts for drug de-addiction and rehabilitation of the drug addicts in the state for which 22 rehabilitation centers would be soon opened across the state.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by former Speaker Mr. Nirmal Singh Kahlon and former Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan.

===balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Ninth issue of 'Garima' released

 CHANDIGARH, JUNE 27
Air Commodore AK Barik , Air Officer Commanding  3 Base Repair Depot, Air Force Chandigarh released Ninth issue of the Depot Annual Hindi Magazine "GARIMA" today during a function in the presence of all the officers and air warriors.Addressing the Depot personnel  Air Commodore Barik conveyed that Magazines play an important role in implementing the official language policies and provide a good source to the creative personnel to demonstrate their talent.  He hoped that like all its previous issues the quality of material and photographs published would be appreciated by all and would definitely bring laurels to the Depot. He exhorted the efforts put in by the Editorial Board of the Magazine and presented a copy of the Magazine to all the senior officers of the Depot.
====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Foundation laying ceremony of Jang-e-Azaadi Memorial

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 27

          The Jang-e-Azaadi Memorial foundation under the Chairmanship of Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today finalized the date of foundation laying ceremony of this world class project, to come at Kartarpur near Jalandhar, in the third week of August this year. The upcoming memorial would be completed within two years by August 2016.

          This decision was taken during the fourth meeting of the foundation which was convened here today at Punjab Bhawan, for taking stock of the prestigious project and apprise all the members about the latest developments related to it so far.

          The foundation also approved the decision of the Executive Committee to engage the services of eminent film director Mr. Shyam Benegal for the preparation of a 90 minutes film depicting the entire saga of Punjabi's stellar role in the national freedom struggle. It may be recalled that the film production team of Mr. Benegal had already extensively conducted the research work on the project by visiting the locations at Amritsar, Patiala, Bathinda, Ferozepur, Nabha, Malerkotla and Ludhiana. In the meantime, Mr. Benegal has already prepared the script of film after having detailed deliberations with the renowned  noted historians, intellectuals, academicians and Sikh scholars on the theme.

          The foundation also gave his nod for the appointment of renowned Architect Mr. Raj Rewal as the Master Technical consultant for the said project, who has designed several landmark buildings including Hall of Nations, Asian Games Village, National Institute of Immunology, Central Institute of Education Technology, The Television Centre, National Science Academy, The World Bank building, The housing for the British High Commission and the Library of the Indian Parliament. Apart from these Mr. Rewal has also designed the Lisbon Ismaili Centre, Portugal and most recently the Indian Embassy in Beijing, China.

          The foundation also gave go ahead for the selection of a reputed firm amongst from the panel of five such selected firms by the Executive Committee on the basis of its evaluation report under the supervision of Technical Advisor to the Chief Minister Lieutenant General (Retd.) BS Dhaliwal.

          Keeping in view of futuristic planning of the project and scope of its expansion, the Chief Minister asked the Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar to explore the possibility to allot additional land of 15 acres of grain market for adding up facilities of parking lot, additional public galleries, open auditorium, cafeteria, public conveniences and others there by shifting the existing Grain market at alternate site to the satisfaction of the general public.

Earlier the the Chief Editor of the Ajit Group of Newspapers and Member Secretary of the foundation Dr Barjinder Singh Hamdard informed the members of the foundation about the progress so far made in conceptualising the project viz-a-viz short listing the panels of eminent architects for the design and planning of buildings and renowned contractors for its construction. He also gave an account of his frequent meetings with Mr. Shyam Benegal for the proposed film in Hindi, English and Punjabi. Likewise, Dr. Hamdard also briefed the Chief Minister about the concept of laser shows to be organised outdoor at night besides the credentials of the shortlisted firms for this purpose. He also requested Mr. Badal to release more funds so that the construction work on the project may not hamper due to shortage of funds.

Responding to the issues raised by Dr. Hamdard, the Chief Minister assured that there would not be any shortage of funds for this "dream project" as he has already made fool proof provisions of automatic collection of funds through levying cultural cess. He further said that as the project progresses ahead in different stages the foundation would be simultaneously allocated funds as per their requirement.          

The Chief Minister said that this prestigious monument has been planned to showcase the rich legacy and the exemplary valor displayed by the countless freedom fighters, patriots and martyrs from Punjab during the Indian independence movement.  The upcoming memorial, he said would play a vital role and act as a beacon to acquaint our younger generations about the saga of great sacrifices made by our martyrs especially from Punjab to free their motherland from the yoke of British imperialism. Mr. Badal sought the views from the participants in the meeting to develop this world class memorial in such a manner to make it a perfect blend of grandeur, aesthetics and architecture.  

The Chief Minister said that this classic memorial of utmost historical significance and immense emotive value especially to Punjabis would come on the ground at the earliest in order to pay befitting tributes to several unsung heroes of national freedom struggle.  He also underscored the need to execute this entire project in a time bound manner right from its conception to completion so that the supreme and unparalleled sacrifices made by the martyrs of the freedom struggle could be showcased in a proper perspective. Mr. Badal said that this memorial would certainly infuse the spirit of nationalism and patriotism amongst the youngsters so that they could take pride in the country's rich legacy.

Interacting with the members of the foundation the noted film maker Mr. Shyam Benegal said that it was a unique project which has touched his soul and mind to create this film entirely in a different manner, which could stir the emotions of our countrymen while peeping in our glorious past during which countless unsung heroes and sons of the soil who made supreme sacrifices at the altar of our national freedom struggle. Mr. Benegal said, "That's why I have chosen to depart from the conventional practice of narrating the heroic deeds of martyrs and national heroes in my film through anchors and preferred to entrust this task to the balladeers, which had ever remained closed to the hearts of Punjabis".

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Ministers Mr. Sohan Singh Thandal and Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Chief Parliamentray Secretary Mr. Som Parkash, Members of Parliament Mr. Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains, former Cabinet Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, former MP Mr. Tarlochan Singh, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary Finance Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Secretary Cultural Affairs Mrs. Raji P Srivastva, Director Cultural Affairs Mr. NS Randhawa, Vice Chancellor Dr. Jaspal Singh and Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar Mr. Kamal Kishore Yadav.   

===balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Khalsa College to have exchange programme with Zurich University

AMRITSAR, JUNE 27

 An agriculture scientist from Zurich University (ZU), Zurich, Switzerland, Dr Peter Marty visited department of agriculture at Khalsa College Amritsar (KCA), here and interacted with faculty and students. He also visited organic farm at the college campus and stated that their university would like to have students’ exchange programs with KCA and would share information on new research and faculty training programs.

 Khalsa College Governing Council (KCGC) honourary secretary Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina welcomed Peter and exchanged dialogues relating new research and applications in agriculture and food production sector. Chhina said they have explored the possibilities of exchanging students and faculty interaction programs in near future.

 Peter said he was impressed by the idea of organic farming which is a major hit in Switzerland. ``We have a very successful program of organic farming in our country which is the answer to future food requirement. We can collaborate in this sector immensely’’, said Peter who teaches sustainable development at department of Life Sciences at ZU. 

He thanked teachers and KCGC for extending him the warm welcome as he addressed the students narrating the detailed presentation about his university research program.

 Others who were present during the interaction program included KCGC finance secretary Gunbir Singh, joint secretary (farms) Rajbir Singh, member SS Chhina, Ajit Singh Basra, Prof. Sukhdev Singh and Prof. Gurbakash Singh.

===balbirsingh227@gmail.com

GoI approves setting up ITIs for women

NEW DELHI, JUNE 26

          Acceding to the proposal mooted by the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the Union government today gave approval for setting up of ITIs exclusively for the women to ensure their empowerment by imparting technical education to them.

          This decision was taken by the Union Minister for Women and Child Development Mrs. Maneka Gandhi, who called on the Chief Minister here at Kapurthala house this morning.

          The Union Minister also assured Mr. Badal that the Centre was ready to fund any scheme/ program aimed at the overall development and welfare of the Women and child in the state. She urged the Chief Minister to send a detailed proposal to her Ministry for the establishment of a network of ITIs across the state for imparting technical and vocational training to women for enabling them to be gainfully employed. Mrs. Gandhi hoped that this unique initiative would go a long way in instilling a sense of confidence amongst the women to live a life with self respect and dignity besides enormously contributing in the national growth.

She also impressed upon the Chief Minister to submit a comprehensive proposal to the Ministry for sanctioning the scheme of setting up “One Stop Crisis centers” in each district across the state to ensure prompt assistance to the women/ girl afflicted with gender crime. The Union Minister apprised Mr. Badal that under the scheme the state government was required to hand over 250-300 square yards of land to establish these centers by erecting pre-fabricated structures, the entire cost of which would be borne by the Union Government.

During the deliberations with the Union Minister, Mr. Badal raised several demands seeking upward revision in honorarium of the Anganwari Workers and Helpers under ICDS scheme from Rs 5000 and Rs 2500 per month, which was highly unrealistic and unreasonable, to Rs 8000 and Rs 4000 per month respectively.  The Chief Minister also pleaded for the introduction of Contributory pension scheme with a minimum monthly contribution @ 10% honorarium to facilitate retirement of workers and helpers at the age of 60 years, as demanded by the Anganwari Unions.  He also sought liberal financial grant from the Government of India (GoI) for the construction of Anganwari centers in phased manner and asked for such grant @ Rs 4.50 lakh per building for the construction of 2000 centers during 2014-15. Mr. Badal informed the Union Minister that more than 25000 Anganwari centers were running in rented/ community/ panchayat buildings across the state.

The Chief Minister also raised the issue for reduction in maximum qualifying age besides doing away with the condition of minimum experience of Helper. He pointed out that under the prevalent instructions priority was given to a helper for appointment as Anganwari worker with a condition of having put in 10 years of service as a helper. Moreover the maximum age for recruitment of an Anganwari worker had also been substantially lowered to 35 years under the restructured ICDS scheme.       

Responding to the demands raised by the Chief Minister, Mrs. Gandhi appreciated the state government for doing exceptionally well in several schemes of Women and Child Development but still expected it to further excel in this regard. The Union Minister assured Mr. Badal that she would get all these demands thoroughly examined at her ministry’s level to ensure their early resolution. She promised Mr. Badal that paucity of funds would not be allowed to hamper the implementation of schemes and even said that the Ministry was ready to include pro-women and child development schemes of the state in its charter of such centrally sponsored schemes.        

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretaries Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh. 

Punjab to be included under PM Adarsh Gram Yogna

NEW DELHI, JULY 26
Conceding the long pending legitimate demand of the state to benefit the millions of Schedule Castes (SC) brethren, the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Mr. Thaawar Chand Gehlot today gave his nod to include Punjab under the "Prime Minister Adarsh Gram Yojna" scheme.
This significant decision aimed at transforming the fortunes of SC population in the state, was taken by Mr. Gehlot in meeting with the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal who called on the former at his office in Shastri Bhawan this evening.
Expressing gratitude to the Union Minister, Mr. Badal said that he had been pleading to get this demand implemented since long as Punjab was the most deserving state with highest SC population (32%) in the country as per census 2011 and out of the total number of 12168 inhabited villages, 2800 villages (23.01%) have 50% or more SC population. The Chief Minister said that this scheme would go a long way in providing the basic infra structural facilities like pavement of streets and phirnis, solar street lights, hand pumps, toilets, water supply and sewerage. It may be recalled that till now five states with far less SC population than Punjab were reaping the benefits of this scheme. These states included Tamil Nadu with 14.4% SC population, Uttar Pradesh (10.07%), Bihar (6.4%), Rajasthan (6.1%) and Assam (4%).
The Union Minister also agreed to the proposal mooted by the state government to establish Sports Institute for Disabled in Zirakpur nearly at the cost of Rs 150 crore, for which the 10 acre land would be provided free of cost by the state government to the Government of India (GoI). In another significant decision, the Union Minister assured Mr. Badal to get the funding of the state government’s scheme of Rs 200 crore for setting up of 22 Rehabilitation Centers in all the districts, thoroughly examined in his Ministry within the ambit of stipulated guidelines of Central Sector scheme of Assistance for prevention of alcoholism and drugs. These Centers were aimed at checking the drug abuse, which was posing a major threat to our youth besides offering them an opportunity to lead a normal life after detoxification as part of their treatment with dignity.
The Chief Minister also urged Mr. Gehlot for seeking his personal intervention to get pending amount of Rs 10 crore released under the pre-matric scholarship scheme of SC students of class 9th and 10th. Likewise, he also sought a sum of Rs 14.61 crore as balance against the pre-matric scholarship to OBC students. Similarly Mr. Badal also impressed upon the Union Minister to immediately get released the backlog grant worth Rs 543. 19 crore for 2013-14 and 2014-15 under the Post Matric Scholarship scheme to the SC students so as to comply with the orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
The Union Minister assured Mr. Badal that he would soon hold a meeting of senior officers of the Ministry to get all the issues raised in today’s meeting settled once for all. He also asked the Joint Secretaries Ms. Ghazala Meenai, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar and Mr. Awanish K Awasthi to visit the state next week to take stock of the various proposals put forth by the state government and initiate concrete steps for their timely implementation.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretaries Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh besides Director Social Welfare Mr. Paramjeet Singh.
====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

GoI pats Punjab for implementing single window mechanism

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 25
          In recognition of the path breaking initiatives taken by the Punjab government for giving fillip to the economic development of the state, the Government of India (GoI) has adjudged Punjab as one of best state for implementing 'Single Window Mechanism' to promote industrialization in the state.
          In a letter to the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, the Union Commerce and Industry Minister Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman has lauded this pro-industrial practice being followed in the state.
          The Union Minister has responded in the backdrop of the World Bank's Doing Business 2014 Report, which benchmarks the regulations affecting the establishment and operations of business across the world. This report has placed India on 134th rank out of the 189 countries. Similarly the Global competitiveness Report 2013-14 of the World Economic Forum has placed India at the 60th rank out of the 148. The study emphasizes that India must press ahead with the structural reforms required to ensure that it was able to provide an investor friendly Business environment.
Likewise, the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) has taken various steps in the direction of 'Improving the Business Environment' in India through key transformational initiatives. The department has also conducted a study to indentify six select best practices followed across the country and 'Single Window Mechanism' started by the Punjab government being one of them.
          The Union Minister has also informed Mr. Badal that going forward as a part of its endeavor to improve the doing business scenario in the country, the DIPP would identify and rank states excelling in the implementation of the best practices every year and give away 'Business Environment Improvement' awards to them. Likewise, the Union government would also sponsor selected officers for short duration Management Development Program (MDP) at Harvard University, Oxford University or London School of Economics. "We will appreciate if all the states/ UTs partner with DIPP in taking these initiatives forward to ease the business regulatory environment in the country" added Mrs. Sitharaman.  
          It may be recalled that six best practices identified by DIPP include "Integrated and Comprehensive System for Managing Indirect Taxes" in Karnataka, 'Labour Management Solution (LMS)' by Maharashtra, "Single Window Clearance (SWC) for Industries- MAITRI by Maharashtra, "Land Related Interventions in Gujarat", 'Implementation of e-Governance' in pollution in Gujarat and Single Window Clearance Mechanism in Rajasthan and Punjab.
=====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

CM launches '104 non-emergency health information helpline'

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 24
In a leap forward towards providing quality Healthcare services to the people just on a single call, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today launched the “104 Non-emergency Health Information Helpline” by personally calling on the number and enquiring about the services provided by the helpline.
Launching the helpline here at his office this morning, the Chief Minister expressed hope that it would act would act as a helpdesk for the people to avail the ultra modern Healthcare and diagnostic facilities across the state. He said that the primary objective of starting this helpline was to assist people, particularly living in rural and interior areas, in getting information on health problems and access to a qualified Doctor. Mr. Badal said that medical advice would be given to the caller by providing basic tips and first aid requirements through this helpline.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister sprang a surprise for the paramedical personnel operating at the Helpline by calling him as an unidentified person from the state. After knowing the details about the functioning of this helpline Mr. Badal told the operator about his credentials and congratulated him for the successful launch of this helpline. Expressing hope that this helpline would go a long way in imparting quality Healthcare and diagnostic services to the people, he asked the Health department to rope in the services of retired employees of the department along with the NGOs for this noble cause. "This 104-Helpline will provide an effective platform for prompt redressal of complaints, grievances of general public against any government medical institution, service or an individual" he added. 
Meanwhile, the officers of the Health department apprised the Chief Minister that requirements of the caller would be classified into critical, serious or stable and accordingly they would be advised to utilize the services of Emergency Response Services 108 or would be given details of the nearby medical facilities. It was also informed that qualified paramedics supported by full-time qualified medical practitioner and clinical psychologist would be stationed at the Helpline for offering services to the people.
It was also informed that counseling services of patients, especially the vulnerable i.e. the old, women, children and poor would also be given through this helpline. Apart from this, the services of counseling for alcohol, drugs, smoking and mental ailment like; anxiety, suicidal tendencies, chronic disease like cancer etc. would also be provided. Counseling would also be given for other services like family planning, adolescent reproductive, sexual health along with the counseling about stigmatized diseases such as HIV, AIDS and Leprosy.
Likewise, this helpline would also serve as an Information Directory Service like: Medical facilities, Hospitals, Pharmacies, Independent practitioners, Diagnostic services, Rehabilitation Centers and other healthcare facilities. Apart from this, information concerning to Women and Child Healthcare, Information of Alternate Medication (AYUSH), Nutrition and Hygiene information and Health alerts and warnings would also be provided. The Chief Minister was also apprised that the helpline would also function as a Call Centre for Mother Child Tracking System for maintaining and validating records of beneficiaries in MCTS Portal as well as to coordinate with beneficiaries for availing the due services on time and informing the beneficiaries regarding benefits available to them in other government schemes.
It was also informed that the 104 helpline would operate as a Resource Centre for ANMs, ASHAs, LHVs and other health workers to respond to their queries while they were working in remote and rural areas. Any complaints relating to PNDT (sex-determination), Food and Drugs, Birth and Death certificates, MTP, Non availability of services of any programme especially under Janani Sishu Surakasha Karyakaram (JSSK) and any other regulations being implemented by the Department could be registered on this 24x7 toll free helpline for the public. The helpline would be equipped to take queries and respond to the caller in any of the 3 languages i.e. Punjabi, Hindi and English. 
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Health and Family Welfare Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Special Principal Secretaries to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggndip Singh Brar and Mr. Ajoy Kumar Sharma, Managing Director of the Punjab Health Systems Corporation Mr. Hussan Lal and Director Health Services Dr. Karmjeet Singh.
====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Badal okays Punjab State Board for drug de-addiction and rehabilitation

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 23
Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave his nod to constitute "Punjab State Board for Drug De-addiction and Rehabilitation" under his chairmanship to have better coordination and synergy in the initiatives aimed at eradicating the blot of drug addiction from the state.
Disclosing this here today a spokesperson of the Chief Minister's Office said that the other members of the Board would include Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal as the senior Vice Chairman, Health Minister as Vice Chairman besides Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary Health, Special Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. KJS Cheema, Managing Director Punjab Health Systems Corporation, Inspector General of Police (Narcotic Cell) Mr. Ishwar Singh, Advisor Health to Punjab Government Dr KK Talwar, Dr. Ajit Awasthi and Dr D Basu from the psychiatry department PGIMER besides five nominees of reputed NGOs working in the field of drug de-addiction and rehabilitation of the drug addicts.
Likewise, the Chief Minister also gave approval to set up Drug de-addiction and rehabilitation societies in each districts headed by the Deputy Commissioner with Senior Superintendent of Police, Civil Surgeon, District Social Security Officer, Psychiatrist of the district drug de-addiction centre besides 10 nominees from the NGOs entrusted with the task of drug de-addiction and rehabilitation apart from the donors, who contributed for this noble cause. These societies have been mandated to function under the directives from the state board for the eradication of drug menace from the state.
Taking stock of the current scenario for establishing rehabilitation centers in each district across the state, the Chief Minister asked a team comprising Dr KK Talwar along with Dr. Ajit Awasthi and Dr D Basu to identify the sites for these centers besides existing Primary Health centers/ community Health centers which could be utilized for these centers. The inspecting team has been asked to submit the report to the Chief Minister at the earliest.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister also asked the Principal Secretary Health to immediately start such rehabilitation center at Saket in Patiala district on pilot basis, which could be later on replicated in the other existing hospitals available for this purpose.
Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included Cabinet Minister Mr. Surjit Kumar Jiyani, Chief Secretary Mr. Sarvesh Kaushal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Health Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan, Special Principal Secretaries to Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar, Mr. KJS Cheema and Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Managing Director Punjab Health System Corporation Mr. Hussan Lal, Special Principal Secretary Health Mr. Vikas Garg and Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Karanjeet Singh.
====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Badal urges political parties to avoid politics over Iraq issue

Lambi (Sri Muktsar Sahib), June 22

          Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today exhorted all the political parties to avoid politics over the sensitive issue of Punjabis trapped in Iraqi civil war as the Government of India (GoI) was already making concerted efforts to ensure their prompt and safe return.

          Interacting with the media persons here on the sidelines of his Sangat Darshan program of Lambi assembly segment, the Chief Minister said that rather than indulging in politics over this sensitive issue, all the political parties should join their hands and extend wholehearted support to the Union government in its efforts to rescue the Punjabis trapped in Iraq. He said that the Centre was using all the diplomatic channels to ensure the safe and immediate return of Punjabis back to their motherland. Mr. Badal said that the state government was constantly in touch with the Union government over this issue adding that no stone would be left unturned to ensure the safe return of Punjabis from strife torn Iraq.

The Chief Minister further said that the Union External Affairs Minister Mrs. Sushma Swaraj has been regularly updating him about the latest development in Iraq and the steps taken by the GoI to safely evacuate the people trapped in Iraq. Likewise, he said that the Union government has assured him that it would make sure that every Indian returns back to his home safely irrespective of the fact that whether he possesses the relevant immigration documents or not.

Earlier addressing the public gatherings during the Sangat Darshan in Dhanni Teliaan wali, Kandu Khera, Bhullar wala, Haakuwala, Fatta Khera and Warring Khera villages, the Chief Minister called upon the Youth Clubs and Panchayats of the villages to extend fulsome support and cooperation to the state government in making Punjab a drug free state. Mr. Badal said that the state government would be able to accomplish its goal only with the active involvement of the general public in this crusade. He also apprised the people about the various initiatives taken by the state government to eradicate the menace of drugs from the state.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister profusely thanked the people for supporting Union Minister Mrs. Harsimrat Kaur Badal in the recently concluded General elections.

The Chief Minister also visited the Civil Hospital Sri Muktsar Sahib and reviewed the arrangements for setting up drug de-addiction center in it.

Later, on the Chief Minister also attended the bhog of Mrs. Jagdish Kaur, the mother of former Lok Sabha MP and senior Congress leader Mr. Jagmeet Singh Brar, who had passed away a few days back and paid rich tributes to her.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr. KJS Cheema, Director Social Welfare Mr. Paramjeet Singh and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Jaskiran Singh.   

Badal seeks IIM and world class central university for Amritsar

NEW DELHI, JUNE 19

Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today sought the personal intervention of Union Human Resource Development Minister Mrs. Smriti Zubin Irani to establish Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and World Class Central University at Amritsar for offering huge opportunities of higher education to the Punjabi youth for their gainful employment.

The Chief Minister, who called on Mrs. Irani at her office in Shastri Bhawan this evening, apprised her about the state’s spectacular performance especially in school education which too has been hugely lauded by Government of India (GoI). Under the grant in aid scheme to the meritorious schools, Mr. Badal requested the Union Minister for sharing 50% of the non recurring and recurring costs of the state run scheme to impart free education in 11^th and 12^th standard to the students who secured 80% or more marks in class 10^th in the specially established six residential schools across the state. The total investment incurred on these schools was Rs 150 crore and the annual recurring expenditure would be Rs 45 crore.         

 The Chief Minister also impressed upon Mrs. Irani to relax the ‘distance condition’ to the extent of 3 KM instead of 5-7 KM subject to village population norm of 3000. He also demanded that the schools once covered under RMSA grant should be reconsidered for additional infra structure on need basis.   Mr. Badal also sought upward revision in various components of Sarv Sikhya Abhyan besides granting powers to the states to make need based changes viz. Primary school grant should be Rs 5000 to Rs 10000, upper Primary School Rs 7000 to Rs 14000 and Uniform grant from Rs 400 to Rs 800.

Likewise, the Chief Minister also pleaded for leaving the civil component of the plan under SSA and RMSA at the disposal of the state government. He also sought the upward revision of the norms under the mid day meal scheme from Rs 3.59 to Rs 5 per child for Primary student and from Rs 5 to Rs 7 for upper primary students. Mr. Badal mentioned that nearly 19 lakh children in Punjab were covered under this scheme and these norms must be suitably revised to meet the enhanced cooking costs.

Responding to the demands raised by the Chief Minister, Mrs. Irani said that she would get all the issues involved in today’s meeting thoroughly examined in a meeting of her Ministry’s Secretaries along with the officers of school/ higher education before taking a final decision on them.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Ministers Mr. Daljeet Singh Cheema and Mr. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Advisor to Chief Minister on National Affairs and Media Mr. Harcharan Bains, his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary School Education Mrs. Anjali Bhanwra and Principal Secretary Higher Education Dr. Roshan Sunkaria besides the Secretary School Education and Languages GoI Mr. R Bhattacharya.  

====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Centre approves AIIMS for Doaba region

NEW DELHI, JUNE 19In fulfillment of state government’s commitment to provide the best healthcare and diagnostic facilities to the people across the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today secured All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Doaba region somewhere near Jalandhar.
A decision regarding it was taken by the Union Health Minister Dr. Harshvardhan during a meeting with the Chief Minister, who called on the former at his office at Nirman Bhawan this morning.
Taking part in deliberations the Chief Minister, while underscoring the need for setting up in AIIMS in the state, said that it was the need of the hour to impart quality Healthcare services to the people of Punjab. Batting for establishing this prestigious hospital in the centre of the state, Mr. Badal said that it would provide an easy access to patients from across the state to avail quality treatment at the shortest possible time. He said that on its part the state government would provide 200 acres of land free of cost to the Government of India (GoI) for setting up this project.
Assuring fulsome support and cooperation to the Chief Minister, Dr. Harshvardhan said that the centre would set up this state-of-the art medical institute in the state. He said that once the proposal regarding the allotment of land was finalized by the state government then the GoI would immediately initiate steps to bring the project on the ground.
Raising another issue, the Chief Minister urged Dr. Harshavardhan to expedite the release of funds worth Rs 120 crore already sanctioned by the GoI for setting up State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College, Amritsar. Likewise, Mr. Badal also sought the intervention of the Union Minister to take up the case for increasing the seats of MBBS and PG seats in the state medical colleges with the Medical Council Of India, to overcome the shortage of Doctors in the state.
Flagging up the issue of drug menace in the state, the Chief Minister sought the support of Union Health Ministry in tackling this grave problem engulfing the youth of Punjab. He impressed upon the Union Minister to set up Advance Drug de-addiction centers in the state with adequate manpower, logistics and infra structural back up for detoxification and rehabilitation of the drug addicts. Mr. Badal sought financial grant of Rs 200 crore to cope up with the crisis arisen out of drug menace.
Highlighting another significant issue, the Chief Minister apprised Dr. Harshavardhan that Government Ayurvedic College Patiala was one of the oldest and premier institute of the region but admissions were not allowed in it from last three years despite of the fact that the state government has made the requisite arrangements for adequate infra structure and faculty in it. He sought the Union Minister’s personal intervention for requisite permission to reopen this institute besides allowing admissions of new batch. This initiative would certainly help to hasten research and education in Ayurvedic system of medicine, he added.
During the meeting the Chief Minister also raised the issue of bringing the pay of the contractual employees of National Rural Health Mission at par with the regular government employees. Likewise, he said that the present allocation of Rs 5 crore for construction of building and hostel for ANM/ GNM schools was too inadequate and thus it should be revised to Rs 7. 5 crore per school. Mr. Badal also urged the Union Minister to expedite the process of sanctioning 11 new trauma centers across the state, in wake of the surge in road accidents in Punjab.
The Chief Minister also asked Dr. Harshvardhan to include the small and marginal farmers of the state in the centrally sponsored scheme of State Illness Fund, under which Rs 1.5 lakh was currently given to BPL patients for treatment of around three terminal diseases, keeping in view their poor economic position due to negligible returns on the farming in the current scenario. He said that this pro-poor initiative would go a long way in providing quality healthcare facilities to a major chunk of unprivileged society. Mr. Badal also highlighted the issue of resuming the share of GoI for the operationalization of 108 Ambulance service in the state, which was abruptly stopped by the UPA government.
Responding to the issues raised by the Chief Minister, Dr. Harshvardhan assured him that he would get all these matters resolved in the coming days. The Union Minister also assured Mr. Badal that centre would facilitate the state government in setting up Advance drug de-addiction centers in Punjab. Likewise, he also directed the officers of Union Health Ministry to immediately restore the financial support of 20% given to the state under NHRM for operationlising108 Ambulance service in the state.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Mr. Anil Joshi, his Principal Secretary Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Mrs. Vinnie Mahajan and Managing Director Punjab Health Services Corporation (PHSC) Mr. Hussan Lal.

CM calls up Sushma Swaraj for early release of kidnapped Punjabis

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 18

          Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today called up the Union External Affairs Minister, Mrs. Sushma Swaraj, to secure the release of Punjabis, who have been abducted in Iraq.

Seeking prompt intervention of Union government to immediately bring back Punjabis to their motherland, the Chief Minister said that the Union Government should make all out efforts for ensuring the safe release of all these Punjabis thereby saving their precious lives. Mr. Badal said that it was the high time that the Union government must exploit all the diplomatic channels for bringing back these Punjabis from Iraq.

Expressing solidarity with the family of the kidnapped Punjabis, the Chief Minister said that the state government was solidly with them in this hour of crisis. However, Mr. Badal said that though there was hardly anything in the hands of the state government in the matters pertaining to the foreign affairs but then also the Punjab government appeals to the Government of India (GoI) to take a prompt action for saving the life of these Indians.

The Chief Minister also directed the Deputy Commissioners to keep close liaison with the members of the family of abducted Punjabis to update them about latest developments in this regard. Mr. Badal also asked the GoI that the state government would bear the entire expenditure for the safe return of these Punjabis.

Meanwhile, Punjab Revenue Minister Mr Bikram Singh Majithia has conveyed his solidarity with the distressed families and assured all support to them, several of whom belong to Amritsar, some to his own constituency, Majitha.

------balbirsingh227@gmail.com

6 Nigerian ‘end recipients’ of heroin consignments from Pakistan arrested in New Delhi

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 18

Punjab Police has achieved a major break through today in its drive against drug trafficking with the arrest of six Delhi-based Nigerian ‘end recipients’ of heroin consignments transiting through Punjab by a joint party of the State Special Operations Cell, district Mohali and district Patiala. Mr. Rajinder Singh Sohal, DSP from district Mohali, Mr Gurdev Singh, DSP from district Patiala, Inspector Harvinderpal Singh and Inspector Balbir Singh of the SSOC, besides other police officials led the police teams in a systematically conducted intelligence-based operation supervised by Sh.Gaurav Yadav, IPS, Inspector General of Police, Counter Intelligence, Punjab who camped in New Delhi for two days to supervise the operations.
Disclosing this here today a spokesman of Punjab Police informed that the arrested Nigerian ‘end recipients’ have disclosed their names as Sydney Obinna, Uzochekwu Clement, Alogsis Ezechinelu, Mike, Victor and Peter. They were residing in a rented accommodation in Uttam Nagar, New Delhi from where they have been arrested on June 18, 2014 by the Punjab Police. The information provided by them was being verified and the concerned foreign embassy was being dully intimated about the arrests.
The spokesman said that investigations have revealed that the Delhi-based Nigerian ‘end recipients’ were in contact with Pakistan-based heroin smugglers Abid Ali, Ch. Sajabad and Bhola. Abid Ali and Sajabad had recently sent a consignment of 22 kg heroin which was seized by the SSOC in April 2014. Bhola’s courier Mohd. Ishfaq @ Malangi, a Pak national has been arrested by the Punjab Police and was currently lodged in the Amritsar jail in connection with seizure of 6 kg heroin, huge quantity of FICN (Fake Indian Currency Notes) and a MP-5 weapon.
He further said that investigations have further revealed that the arrested Nigerians ‘end-recipients’ were the kingpins of an international and inter-state drug distribution network with linkages and contacts in Nigeria, Brazil, Pakistan, South Africa, Canada, the United States (US), and, the Indian states of Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. The functioning of a multi-laired international and inter-state drug distribution network controlled by the Delhi-based ‘end-recipients’ has been unveiled. These ‘end-recipients’ were obtaining heroin consignments from Pakistan through Punjab and J&K borders, and after transit through Punjab, the drugs were being received in New Delhi for pumping into the drug distribution network.
He said that the arrested persons were being brought to Amritsar for production before the concerned court to obtain their police remand in order to question them thoroughly, establish the linkages revealed, and, effect more arrests and seizures. Further investigations are ongoing.
====balbirsingh227@gmail.com