Music is a great medium for carrying forward cultures & civilizations: Gulab Chand Kataria

- Cultural event at Punjab Raj Bhavan cements bond between Punjab & Kazakhstan

Tourism Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond invites World to Experience Heart and Soul of Punjab

- Timeless History, Rich Traditions, and Vibrant Modernity of Punjab Seamlessly Blend to Create an Unforgettable Experience: Sond

\Chandigarh, January 20: The Punjab Raj Bhavan today resonated with the cultural as well as the musical vibes of Punjab and Kazakhstan as a mesmerizing and soulful musical Evening was held at the premises.

Terming it as an extremely auspicious occasion for the Punjab Raj Bhavan, the Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria appreciated the untiring efforts made by the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, Punjab, for organizing and ensuring that this event turns out to be a stupendous success.

Heartily welcoming the artists of Kazakhstan, the Governor said that Music always spreads happiness and is a great medium for carrying forward cultures and civilizations and is above the barriers of language.

The Governor further added that this spell binding Evening has cemented the cultural bond between Punjab and Kazakhstan thus bringing together both.

Calling Punjab a land that has made great sacrifices, Gulab Chand Kataria further pointed out that Punjab has bestowed great cultural legacy on next generations.

In this landmark event celebrating international friendship and cultural exchange, Punjab welcomed an esteemed cultural troupe from Kazakhstan. This initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to foster cross-cultural ties while showcasing its tourism potential on the global stage. Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond while addressing the event emphasized Punjab’s rich heritage and efforts to position the state as a global cultural hub.

\Minister Sond extended invitation to the people around the world to discover the beauty, diversity, and soul of Punjab. “Together, let us celebrate cultural understanding, elevate Punjab’s tourism potential, and create a future where global friendships thrive,” he said.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is undertaking key initiatives to elevate its tourism sector and attract global visitors. These initiatives include Infrastructure Development, Improved connectivity, enhanced safety measures, and world-class hospitality services to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Heritage Promotion through focused efforts to showcase iconic landmarks like the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, Jallianwala Bagh etc and Punjab’s lush wetlands and agricultural landscapes through village tourism also occupies a prime slot in the scheme of things of Punjab Government. Promoting sustainable tourism by encouraging eco-friendly practices and active community participation is also under prime focus.

Sond expressed confidence that these initiatives will position Punjab as a preferred destination for both domestic and international tourists, offering them a blend of tradition and modernity.

He extended warm welcome to all the artists from Kazakhstan to immerse themselves in the vibrant heritage of this land. This evening’s cultural performances beautifully exemplify how music, dance, and art transcend barriers, uniting humanity in a shared celebration of creativity and harmony.

He added, Punjab is the land of vibrant traditions and timeless heritage and has long been a shining beacon and the pivot of Indian civilization. Known for its soulful music, rhythmic dances like Bhangra and Giddha, and the globally cherished flavors of Punjabi cuisine, the state offers a unique cultural experience to every visitor. Iconic dishes such as sarson ka saag, makki di roti, and lassi have become synonymous with Punjab’s warmth and hospitality.

Sond said that Punjab is not just a destination; it is an experience where history, tradition, and modernity come together. This cultural exchange with Kazakhstan highlights the shared appreciation between the two regions for traditions, art, and family values. This event is not just a celebration of art and culture but a reaffirmation of universal harmony and mutual respect between nations. It underscores Punjab’s vision of building bridges across borders and promoting global harmony.

\The event witnessed a mesmerizing fusion of cultures as Kazakh artists captivated the audience with their enchanting traditional dances and soul-stirring music, leaving an indelible mark on hearts. Complementing their performance, Punjabi troupes showcased the vibrant heritage of Punjab through electrifying displays of Bhangra, and other traditional dances that brought the stage to life.

The cultural extravaganza was graced by the presence of Chief Secretary Punjab KAP Sinha, Chief Secretary Chandigarh Rajiv Verma, ACS to Governor K. Siva Prasad, Secretary Tourism Malwinder Singh Jaggi and Director Amrit Singh, adding significance to this memorable evening of artistic exchange.

======================

PSPCL Sets New Record, Registers 13% Increase in Electricity Supply: Harbhajan Singh ETO

Pacchwara Mine's Significant Contribution Ensures Adequate Coal Supplies

Chandigarh, January 20-Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO on Monday announced that the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) has achieved a record electricity supply of 66914 MUs as of January 19, 2025, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period last fiscal year. He said that this significant growth underscores PSPCL's efforts to enhance power infrastructure and meet the growing electricity demands of Punjab's residents and industries.

Revealing further, the Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that the maximum demand met during fiscal year 2024-25 is 16058 MW, which is 5% higher than the previous year. “PSPCL has ensured uninterrupted electricity supply to all categories of consumers in Punjab, without imposing any power cuts”, said the Power Minister while adding that this feat is attributed to the adequate arrangements made by PSPCL, demonstrating the corporation's commitment to providing reliable power supply.

Regarding coal availability, the Power Minister informed that PSPCL is ensuring regular and adequate supplies, resulting in a good buildup of stock in all three state-run thermal plants. He said that the current stock levels stand at 42 days for Guru Gobind Singh Thermal Plant (GGSTP) Ropar, 28 days for Guru Hargobind Thermal Plant (GHTP) Lehra Mohabbat, and 40 days for Guru Amardas Thermal Plant (GATP) Goindwal Sahib. He said that the PSPCL is making all-out efforts to ensure coal availability as per requirement during the upcoming paddy season.

“The Pacchwara coal mine has been providing a steady supply of good-quality coal, which has significantly contributed to the state power sector. As of January 19, 2025, the mine has supplied 56 lakh tons of coal, equivalent to 1306 rakes, during the 2024-25 period”, he added.

Reaffirming the commitment of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government to delivering continuous, high-quality power at affordable rates, Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that PSPCL is well-prepared to meet the increasing power demands of Punjab's residents and industries, with all necessary arrangements firmly in place.

=======================================

PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO convenes High-Level Meeting to Review Progress of Major Infrastructure Projects

Chandigarh, January 20-Public Works and Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO has convened a high-level meeting on January 21, 2025, at Chandigarh to review the progress of major infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Public Works Department (PWD) in the state, as well as to plan for future infrastructure developments.

Revealing this in a press communiqué issued here, the PWD Minister said that all the Chief Engineers and Superintending Engineers have been instructed to attend the meeting. “The agenda will include a detailed discussion on the construction and maintenance of key public infrastructure, such as judicial and administrative buildings, schools, hospitals, medical colleges, road and bridge projects on state roads”, he added.

Emphasizing the importance of this review meeting in ensuring that all projects are on track and meeting the required standards, the PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that this meeting will provide an opportunity to evaluate the current status of projects and address any challenges that may arise. He said that the goal is to ensure timely completion and high-quality execution of all infrastructure initiatives.

The PWD Minister said that the meeting would also focus on deliberating future infrastructure projects aimed at further enhancing the state's public facilities. "We are dedicated to building a robust, safe and sustainable infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing population. By planning and executing future projects efficiently, we can ensure long-term benefits for the people of Punjab," he added.

==========================================

AHEAD OF R-DAY, DGP PUNJAB ORDERS ENHANCED SECURITY MEASURES, NIGHT DOMINATION OPERATIONS ACROSS STATE

— FOCUS ON BRINGING BACK WANTED CRIMINALS FROM ABROAD TO FACE JUSTICE: DGP GAURAV YADAV DIRECTS CPs/SSPs

— PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO ENSURE PEACEFUL CELEBRATIONS OF UPCOMING REPUBLIC DAY AS PER DIRECTIONS OF CM BHAGWANT SINGH MANN

— DGP PUNJAB ACCOMPANIED BY SPL DGP INTERNAL SECURITY, ADGP ANTF AND ADGP AGTF CHAIRS LAW AND ORDER REVIEW MEETING IN AMRITSAR AND JALANDHAR

— DGP GAURAV YADAV ORDERS CPs/SSPs TO REGISTER FIR IF ANYONE FOUND INDULGING IN ANY VIOLENT ACTIVITIES

— POLICE OFFICERS/OFFICIALS DIRECTED TO STRENGTHEN NAKAS, INTENSIFY VIGIL AROUND THE ANTI-SOCIAL ELEMENTS

CHANDIGARH/AMRITSAR/JALANDHAR, January 20: In order to ensure peaceful celebrations of forthcoming Republic Day-2025 as mandated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on Monday issued directives to heighten security measures, increase police presence and intensify night domination operations across the state.

The DGP accompanied by Special DGP Internal Security RN Dhoke, ADGP Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Nilabh Kishore and ADGP Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Promod Ban visited Amritsar and Jalandhar to chair Law and Order Review Meetings with the officers of Commissionerates— Amritsar and Jalandhar, and Police Ranges— Border, Jalandhar and Ludhiana. He also reviewed the ongoing Counter-Terror Operations, Action against Drug Trafficking and Action against Organised Crime.

"Security arrangements were reviewed and suitable instructions have been given to maintain peace and harmony by ensuring police presence at all important places, intensify domination operations and other preventive and detective measures ahead of Republic Day celebrations,” said DGP Gaurav Yadav.

He said that as part of the heightened security, police personnel will conduct regular patrols and checks, particularly at night, to prevent any potential threats or disruptions. The night domination operations will also involve the deployment of additional police forces in sensitive areas, including border districts, to maintain law and order, he added.

He said that all the CPs/SSPs have also been instructed to keep a close watch on suspicious activities and individuals, and to take prompt action in case of any security breaches. “I’ve mandated all the officers to not let anyone take the law into their hands and if any person was found indulged in any violent activities should be dealt with firmly and FIR should be registered immediately,” he said.

The DGP also directed CPs/SSPs to increase the Police Checkpoints in their respective jurisdictions and ensure the checking of a maximum number of vehicles at every Naka, which will help in curtailing terrorist and criminal activities.

He also asked the police officers to focus on issuing Look Out Circulars (LoC), Red Corner Notices (RCNs), Open Arrest Warrants, Blue Corner Notices (BCNs) and Extradition Proposals for bringing back wanted criminals from abroad to face justice.

IGP Ludhiana Range Dhanpreet Kaur, CP Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, CP Jalandhar Swapan Sharma, DIG Border Range Satinder Singh, DIG Jalandhar Range Naveen Singla, SSP Amritsar Rural Charanjit Singh, SSP Gurdaspur Harish Dayama, SSP Batala Suhail Qasim Mir, SSP Jalandhar Rural Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh, SSP Kapurthala Gaurav Toora, SSP Hoshiarpur Surendra Lamba, SSP SBS Nagar Mehtab Singh, SSP Khanna Ashwini Gotyal and SSP Khanna Navneet Singh Bains were among other officers/officials who attended the meetings.