CM EXHORTS PEOPLE TO TRANSFORM PLANTATION DRIVE INTO A MASS MOVEMENT

PRESIDES OVER STATE LEVEL FUNCTION TO MARK VAN MAHAUTSAV

LAUNCHES CARBON CREDIT SCHEME WORTH RS 45 CRORE TO PRESERVE ENVIRONMENT AND CHECK THE GLOBAL WARMING

CALLS UPON FARMERS TO PLANT ATLEAST FOUR TREES IN THEIR FARMS

NEW KANDI CANAL TO BENEFIT 11,000 ACRES OF LAND, 206 MEGAWATT DAM TO BE DEDICATED TO PEOPLE AT DHAR KALAN

ASSERTS THAT SINS OF BADAL FAMILY ARE UNPARDONABLE

REBEL AKALI LEADERSHIP WAS PART AND PARCEL OF BADAL FAMILY DURING THESE SINS

Hoshiarpur, August 6-Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday gave clarion call to the people for transforming the plantation drive into a mass movement for checking the environmental pollution on one hand and enhancing the green cover of the state on other.

Addressing the gathering during a state level function to mark Van Mahautsav here today, the Chief Minister said that this is a unique initiative aimed at enhancing the green cover across the state. Quoting verse ‘Pawan Guru, Paani Pitaah, Mata Dharat Mahat’ from Gurbani, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the great Gurus have equated air (pawan) with teacher, water (paani) with father and land (dharat) with mother. He said that during those times there were no industrial units who were polluting the environment but it was the farsightedness of Great Gurus aimed at checking the pollution.

The Chief Minister said that now the time has come when we must imbibe the teachings of Gurbani in our lives for restoring the pristine glory of the state by resolving to save the environment of the state. He said that the state government will leave no stone unturned for this noble cause adding that the people of state should support the state government by planting more and more trees. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is the need of hour so as to transform the plantation drive into a mass movement to benefit the people.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab is the first state in the country to launch the carbon credit scheme to preserve the environment and check global warming. He said that this project has been launched in the state with the help of TERI and as pilot project 3686 farmers from across the state will be disbursed Rs 45 crore in four instalments. Bhagwant Singh Mann also distributed cheques worth Rs 1.75 crore to 818 farmers of the Hoshiarpur district as first instalment of this ambitious scheme.

The Chief Minister said these funds will be transferred to the farmers through the Direct Benefit Scheme besides playing an active role in checking environmental pollution. He envisioned that this scheme will act as a pivotal for reducing the effects of Greenhouse gases adding that this is based on the ‘Polluter Pays Principle’ where polluters compensate the organisations/ farmers working for reducing carbon emission. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the saplings planted by farmers play a pivotal role in reducing environmental pollution so they can be eligible beneficiaries of this scheme.

The Chief Minister said that by the reckless cutting of trees human beings have created havoc with nature. He said that owing to this only we are witnessing a lot of natural fury across the country adding that the only solution for this is to plant more and more trees. Bhagwant Singh Mann advised the farmers that every food grower who is getting free power must plant atleast four trees in his farms adding that if needed this will be given a shape of law to save the coming generations.

The Chief Minister said that at the time he assumed the charge of office only 21% canal water was being used. However, he said that it is a matter of great pride and satisfaction that today 72% of the canal water is being used for irrigation purposes. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that New Kandi Canal is being constructed which is likely to benefit 11,000 acres of land adding that 206 MegaWatt Dam is being established at Dhar Kalan.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has taken exemplary initiatives for the well being of the state and its people. He said that for the first time in the post-independence era his government has started the work for construction of Malwa canal in the state adding that it is on record that none of the previous governments of the state had paid heed towards this necessity of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann further said that this around 150 kilometre long new canal will usher a new era of unprecedented progress and prosperity in the state especially in Malwa region adding that the state government will spend around Rs 2300 crore on this prestigious project that will cater to irrigational needs of nearly two lakh acres of fertile land of the state.

Training his guns against SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, the Chief Minister said that the former Deputy Chief Minister is trying to mislead the people through his political gimmicks. He quipped that the scion of Badal family is now seeking pardon for his actions but he should remember one thing that apology may be given for the misdeeds but sins are unpardonable. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Badal family has committed heinous sins against the state and its people which can never be forgiven.

The Chief Minister said that the state government is gathering evidence about the sacrilege incident adding that the real culprit of this crime will be behind the bars soon. Training his guns against the rebel Akali leadership, he said that these leaders are now shedding crocodile tears over the issue whereas they were part and parcel of the Badal family during these sins. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these leaders cannot absolve them from the sin merely by issuing statements now.

The Chief Minister said that gone are the days when the government was run from the offices in Chandigarh adding that for saving time, money and energy of people, the sovereign masters of state, now the government is being run from the villages and towns. He said that the state government has already launched its flagship scheme of Sarkar Tuhaade Dwaar under which village level camps are being organised to offer citizen centric services to people at their doorsteps. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that more such pro-people initiatives will be taken in the coming days for the welfare of people.

On the occasion Cabinet Ministers Bram Shanker Jimpa and Lal Chand Kataruchak, Lok Sabha MP Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal and others were also present.

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PUNJAB TOPS IN GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL RANKING ACROSS INDIA

* Punjab stands out amongst all states & UTs grievance redressal index developed by GoI

* Achievement reflects unwavering commitment of Punjab Govt to address citizens’ concerns effectively, says Aman Arora

Chandigarh, August 6: Standing out from all the States & Union Territories, the Punjab Government has achieved a significant milestone by securing the top position in grievance resolution rankings across the country.

Announcing this noteworthy achievement today, Punjab Governance Reforms and Public Grievances Minister Mr. Aman Arora said that the ranking was declared on the basis of the Grievance Redressal Index developed by the Government of India for comparative assessment between states and union territories (UTs). The index considers two key dimensions— timely disposal of grievances and quality of disposal. Data used for the Index covers the period from January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024.

“This achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of the Punjab Government to effectively address concerns of citizens,” stated Mr. Aman Arora.

He further informed that strict parameters were formulated for the Index, including percentage of grievances disposed within 30 days, percentage of grievances redressed and citizen feedback. Punjab’s score of 62.27% stands out amongst all states & UTs receiving over 20,000 grievances.

Emphasising the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led state government’s dedication to resolving all citizen issues promptly, the Governance Reforms Minister said that strict monitoring of grievance redressal is being ensured at the higher level. Any citizen can file complaints through the government portal https://connect.punjab.gov.in or by calling the toll-free number 1100, or by visiting any Sewa Kendra.

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Adoption Agencies to be Established in Every District to Simplify Child Adoption: Dr. Baljit Kaur

172 New Posts to Strengthen Adoption Infrastructure for Destitute and Orphaned Children

Financial Assistance of Rs 26 Lakh Per Year to NGOs

Chandigarh, August 6: To simplify the process of child adoption, the Punjab Government is establishing adoption agencies in every district of the state and creating 172 new posts to strengthen the infrastructure for the adoption of destitute and orphaned children.

While presiding over the state-level training program on Adoption Regulation, 2022, at the Mahatma Gandhi State Institute for Public Administration Chandigarh, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is continuously working for the care of orphans. To achieve this objective, the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development is providing financial assistance of Rs. 26 lakh per year to various non-governmental organizations involved in the adoption process for the welfare and protection of destitute and orphaned children. She added that more than 300 destitute and orphaned children have been adopted through the department's proper implementation of the child adoption process, giving them a family atmosphere.

She instructed all the Additional Deputy Commissioners to ensure that child adoption applications received in the state are processed within the stipulated time. Additionally, she directed civil surgeons to resolve any difficulties faced by parents in registering the adopted child's birth certificate promptly. This ensures that adopted children, whether by foreign couples or couples from other states, do not face any difficulties.

Emphasizing the importance of support, the Minister directed department officials to form support groups for parents to strengthen the adoption process. This would enable follow-ups on the adopted children and counseling for the parents. Similarly, prospective adoptive parents can be motivated by being informed about potential post-adoption challenges.

Dr. Baljit Kaur issued strict instructions to all District Program Officers, emphasizing that child adoption applications should be verified on merit and processed by district magistrates in a timely manner based on accurate facts.

Special Chief Secretary of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Mrs. Raji P. Shrivastava, stated that efforts are being made to encourage all child adoption agencies to strengthen the adoption process in the state, ensuring that every child can find a family and integrate into mainstream society.

Director of Social Security and Women and Child Development Department, Dr. Shena Aggarwal, welcomed the stakeholders and provided detailed information about the child adoption process.

On this occasion, Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) Deputy Director Poonam Sharma and Consultant Shivani Chauhan shared information about the process of adopting a child under Adoption Regulation, 2022, ensuring the child's future security. Additionally, the adopted daughter's mother, Minal Lal, shared her experiences.

Participants in this state-level training program included Additional Deputy Commissioners of District Administration, Chief Medical Officers and stakeholders working under the Mission Vatsalya Scheme, such as District Program Officers, District Child Protection Officers, Child Protection Officers, Member Child Welfare Committees, and representatives of Specialized Adoption Agencies (SAA).

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Dr. Baljit Kaur Held a High-Level Meeting to Implement the Atrocity Act

Says, Punjab Government Has Strengthened Social Justice Initiatives

Rs. 7.93 Crore Allocated for Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Bhawan

Chandigarh, August 6: The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to the welfare and safety of the backward sections of society. In line with this commitment, Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities Dr. Baljit Kaur convened a high-level meeting to discuss the implementation of the Atrocity Act, 1989, and other significant initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities. The meeting was attended by the Additional Inspector General (AIG) of the Police Department and other senior officials.

Dr. Baljit Kaur directed that a nodal officer should be appointed at the state level to ensure justice for victims under the Atrocity Act, 1989, with a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) designated as the nodal officer at the district level. She emphasized the need for law officers to be appointed to facilitate the victims. She also instructed that a list of nodal officers be posted in public places across the state and a directory of their names and mobile numbers be released. Furthermore, She also instructed that the list of nodal officers, along with their office details, should be provided to the Department of Social Justice to ensure timely compensation and justice for the victims.

The Cabinet Minister announced that a budget provision of Rs 5.93 crore has been made for the construction of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Bhawan in Tarn Taran district. The construction of this building will start soon, marking an important step towards honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's legacy. Additionally, Rs 2.00 crore has been earmarked for the renovation of existing Ambedkar Bhawans in various districts. Departmental officials have been instructed to expedite the renovation works to ensure that the purpose of these Bhawans is fully realized.

The meeting was attended by prominent officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Mr. D.K. Tiwari, Director Mrs. Amrit Singh, Joint Secretary Mr. Raj Bahadur Singh, and Deputy Director Mr. Ravinderpal Singh Sandhu, underscoring the Punjab Government's commitment to the upliftment and empowerment of marginalized communities.

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Punjab Closes Two More Toll Plazas on State Highways: Harbhajan Singh ETO

Says, Mann Government Closes 18 Toll Plazas So Far

Commuters Saving ₹61.67 Lakh Daily

Chandigarh, August 6-Punjab Public Works and Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO announced today that two toll plazas on the state highway Patiala-Nabha-Malerkotla have been closed on August 5, effective immediately.

Revealing this in a press communique issued here. The PWD Minister said that the collection of road user fee at toll plazas, located at Mohrana and Kalyan on Patiala-Nabha-Malerkotla were closed late last night. He said that the total collection from these two toll plazas was Rs. 87 lakh per month.

The minister said that this move is part of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab government's efforts to provide direct financial relief to the people of Punjab amidst rising inflation. He said that the closure of these two toll plazas brings the total number of closed toll plazas across the state to 18, resulting in a daily saving of Rs. 61.67 lakh for commuters.

Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO stated that stopping of toll collection is a significant step towards economic relief for the people of Punjab, easing the financial burden on citizens and ensuring smooth and hassle-free traffic movement on these roads. "Since coming to power nearly two years ago, the Mann government has eliminated tolls on a total of 590 km of state highways", he added.

The minister highlighted the daily relief provided by the removal of tolls on the state highways, including the Patiala-Samana road, Ludhiana-Malerkotla-Sangrur road, Balachaur-Garshankar-Hoshiarpur-Dasuha road, Kiratpur Sahib-Nangal-Una road, Hoshiarpur-Tanda road, high level bridge on Sutlej river at Makhu, Moga-Kotakpura road, Ferozepur-Fazilka road, Bhawanigarh-Nabha-Gobindgarh road, Dakha-Raikot-Barnala road, and now on Patiala-Nabha-Malerkotla road. He emphasized that the Punjab government is committed to providing maximum economic relief to its citizens while focusing on building quality infrastructure.

With this move, the state government continues to prioritize the welfare of its citizens, providing tangible economic benefits and improving the overall driving experience on state highways, concluded PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO.

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School Education Department extended date of submission of applications for transfers

Chandigarh, August 6: The Punjab School Education Department today extended the date for submission of applications for general transfers of teachers till August 10, 2024.

Giving information in this regard, the spokesperson of the department said that the portal regarding the transfer of teachers was opened from 25 July 2024 to 5 August 2024 but the teachers could not file their applications due to the website being down. Keeping this in view, the date for submission of online applications for transfers has been extended till 10 August 2024.

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Punjab State Child Rights Protection Commission Takes Serious Notice of School Bus Accident in Jagraon

Says, It is the responsibility of the school principal to ensure safe school transportation for the students

Chandigarh, August 6-The Punjab State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has taken cognizance of media reports regarding the death of a class first student and injuries to two others in a school bus accident in Jagraon. The Commission has issued a letter to the SSP Jagraon and detailed report regarding the school bus accident has been sought by August 8.

Giving more information in this regard, Punjab State Child Rights Protection Commission Chairman Kanwardeep Singh said that according to media reports, a student of the class first has died and two students have been injured in an accident of a school bus in Jagraon.

He emphasized that school buses should fulfill all the safety standards according to the Safe School Vahan Scheme and It is the responsibility of the school principal to ensure that only vehicles fulfilling these safety standards are used for transporting students.

Additionally, the Chairman stated that a letter has been sent to the Senior Superintendent of Police to determine the cause of the accident. He added that detailed report has been sought by August 8, 2024

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CASO OPERATION CONTINUES AHEAD OF I-DAY AS PUNJAB POLICE FRISKS PEOPLE AT BUS STANDS ACROSS STATE

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

— 393 POLICE TEAMS FRISK 2493 PERSONS AT 195 BUS STANDS ACROSS STATE

— POLICE TEAMS ALSO CHECKS 3174 VEHICLES STATIONED OUTSIDE BUS STANDS; 205 CHALLANED, 11 IMPOUNDED

— SUCH OPERATIONS WOULD CONTINUE TO ENSURE PEACE AND HARMONY IN THE BORDER STATE

Chandigarh, August 6:Continuing its special cordon and search operation (CASO) to ensure peaceful celebrations of forthcoming Independence Day-2024 as committed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police on Tuesday carried out searches at all the Bus Stands across the state.

The CASO, conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, was carried out from 1 pm to 3 pm simultaneously in all the 28 Police districts under which Police teams with the assistance of sniffer dogs frisked people arriving and departing at Bus Stands.

Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla, who was personally monitoring this state-level operation, said that all the CPs/SSPs were asked to ensure proper cordon off and thorough search of all the bus stands in their respective districts amidst the maximum number of Police teams under the supervision of SP rank officers to make this operation successful.

Apart from this, CPs/SSPs were also asked to carrying out checking of all the vehicles parked around the bus stands by using the Vahan app. “We had strictly instructed all the Police Personnel to deal with every person in a friendly and polite manner while frisking them during the course of this operation,” he added.

He said that as many as 393 patrolling parties, involving 2500 Police Personnel, were deputed across the state to look for suspicious persons at different bus stands in the state while ensuring minimum inconvenience to the general public. Around 2493 people were checked during the operation conducted at around 195 bus stands in the state, he said, while adding that police teams have rounded up four persons for questioning.

As many as 3174 vehicles stationed at different parkings around bus stands were also checked during which Police teams have also issued 205 challans and impounded 11 vehicles.

Special DGP Arpit Shukla reiterated that such operations would continue to ensure peace and harmony in the border state.

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VB registers corruption case against PSPCL JE for taking Rs 11,500 bribe through Google Pay App

Chandigarh August 6, 2024 -The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) registered a corruption case against a Junior Engineer (JE) Pawan Kumar, posted at PSPCL office Abohar division-3, Ferozepur district for accepting a bribe of Rs 11,500.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said this case has been registered based on a complaint lodged by Shubham Taneja, a resident of Abohar city in Fazilka district on the Chief Minister's Anti Corruption Action Line.

He further added that the said complainant had alleged in his complaint that the said PSPCL official had demanded a bribe of Rs two to Rs two and half lakh in lieu of not charging excess billing of his factory due to fault in the power meter otherwise fine of Rs 15-20 lakh approximately may be imposed. The complainant further alleged that the accused JE had asked him to deposit Rs two lakh in a bank account of his known person namely Sunil Kumar to deposit the fine in the PSPCL office and he transferred the same amount in the month of January 2024. Besides this, the said JE had received Rs 11,500 in his google pay account and Rs 13,500 bribe as cash amount.

The spokesperson informed that during verification of this complaint the allegations leveled against the PSPCL official to accept Rs 11,500 as a bribe found to be correct and true.

In this regard a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the said accused at VB police station Ferozepur range. Further investigation into this case was under progress, he said.

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