CM FIRMS UP MEGA INVESTMENT PROJECTS FOR STATE

* MEETS TOP HONCHOS ON INDUSTRY DURING VISIT TO MUMBAI

* SUN PHARMA SHOWS KEENNESS TO EXPAND ITS EXISTING TAUNSA PROJECT

* SIFY TECHNOLOGIES SHOWS WILLINGNESS TO INVEST AI BASED HORIZONTAL DATA CENTRE IN MOHALI

* JSW STEELS TO SET UP A NEW UNIT IN 28 ACRES WORTH RS. 1600 CRORE

* RPG GROUP DESIRES TO INVEST IN A BIG WAY IN PUNJAB

Mumbai, August 21:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday firmed up major investment projects for state with leading companies like Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, RPG, Sify Technologies and JSW group expressing their willingness to invest in state.

During the meeting with Captains of these industries, the Chief Minister showcased Punjab as a land of opportunities and invited the companies to invest in the state. He said that entrepreneurs will be immensely benefited by investing in the state, which is rapidly emerging as the industrial hub of the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab has complete communal harmony, peace and amity, which are mainly responsible for overall development and prosperity in the state.

The Chief Minister said that knowing well that power is the engine of growth, the Punjab government is providing uninterrupted power to every sector be it residential, commercial or agriculture He urged the representative of the company to make optimum use of this congenial atmosphere backed by excellent infrastructure, power, skilled human resources and best industrial and work culture to spread their business. Extending a red carpet welcome to the industrialists, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government was always open for new ideas and innovations to boost up the industrial growth in Punjab.

During a meeting with the Chief Minister, CEO of – Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) Business (Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd) Damodharan Satagopan expressed his company's keen interest in investing significantly in Punjab, citing the state's conducive business environment and proactive governance. He highlighted Punjab's strategic advantages, skilled workforce, infrastructure, Professional behavior of Bureaucracy that makes the state an attractive destination for pharmaceutical industries. He said that meeting marked the beginning of a promising partnership, poised to boost Punjab's economy and create new opportunities. The company showed interest to expand its existing Taunsa project due to pro indusstrial policies of the state government.

Earlier, Damodar Satagopan apprised the Chief Minister that the Pharma company has an annual turnover of Rs 48,496 Crore and is currently operating in Toansa, Balachaur (SBS Nagar) and Mohali (SAS Nagar). He said that Sun Pharma is actively looking into business expansion through in-licensing, M&A and out licensing activities for branded products. He said that Sun Pharma also has a strategic interest in establishing Joint Ventures and Research Partnerships with world-renowned academia and institutes.

Meanwhile, Vice Chairman of RPG group Anant Goenka, while expressing desire of his group to invest in the state, appreciated the single window system created in Punjab as a single point solution to all difficulties faced by the industrialists. Showing his willingness to Invest in Punjab in a big way, he said that CEAT has expansion plans in Punjab as the state is an ideal hub for CEAT's growth ambitions. He said that the group has already invested in a big way in the South and West adding that now it is the turn of Punjab.

President of Sify Technologies Ltd Daleep Kaul said that SIFY technologies have decided to set up a dedicated/captive data center in Mohali in the First Phase and invest Rs 1500 crore in Artificial Intelligence (AI) based Horizontal Data Centre in Punjab.

Meanwhile, JSW group has agreed to make further investments worth Rs 1600 crore in the state including expansion of JSW steel coating products and Business Heads of JSW Steel Coated Products Ltd Amarjit Singh Dahiya and Ashwani Kumar Sharma informed the Chief Minister that JSW Steel Coating Products Ltd has purchased 28.17 acres adjacent to the existing plant in Rajpura for expansion worth Rs 1600 Crore.

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Bussiness tycoons hails industrial friendly policies of Punjab CM

Mumbai, August 21:Leading Bussiness tycoons today hailed the industrial friendly policies of the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and assured fulsome support and cooperation for putting state on high growth trajectory of economic growth.

CEO Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients Business of Sun Pharmaceuticals, Damodharan Satagopan lauded state's conducive business environment and proactive governance to facilitate their investment plans. He highlighted Punjab's strategic advantages, skilled workforce, infrastructure and above all Professional behaviour of Bureaucracy that makes state as an attractive destination for pharmaceutical industries. He also hailed the Chief Minister for boosting Punjab's economy through his visionary decisions.

Vice Chairman of RPG (CEAT) Group Anant Goenka appreciated about the single window system developed by Punjab government as a single point solution to all problems earlier faced by the industrialists. He also lauded the state for investor-friendly policies and infrastructure advantages adding that Punjab's skilled workforce and strategic location, making it an ideal investment hub. He said that the day is not far when state will be a front runner in industrial growth, employment opportunities and economic development.

Vice President of Sify Technologies Daleep Kaul appreciated the state government for giving major push to industrial development of state. He also lauded the efforts being made by State Government for creating a business friendly atmosphere in Punjab. Business Heads of JSW Steel Coated Products Ltd Amarjit Singh Dahiya and Ashwani Kumar Sharma also applauded the Chief Minister for taking out of the box initiatives to boost investment in the state.

Rotational irrigation programme for Kharif season released

Chandigarh, August 21: Punjab government has issued rotational irrigation programme of canals for the Kharif eason.

Disclosing this here, an official spokesperson of the Water Resources Department said that for the period of August 21 to 28, the channels of Sirhind Canal System will run in the priority basis from Sidhwan Branch, Bathinda Branch, Bist Doab Canal, Abohar Branch and Patiala Feeder, respectively.

He further said that direct distributaries of Group 'A' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in Ghaggar Link and its off-taking Channels i.e. Ghaggar Branch and P.N.C. in Group 'B'.

The spokesperson further said that direct distributaries of Sirhind Feeder in Group 'A' being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in Abohar Branch off-taking from Sirhind Feeder and its Distributaries in Group 'B'.

He said that Lahore Branch with its distributaries being in the first preference will run to their indent. Balance water supplies available will be utilized in Main Branch Lower, Kasur Branch Lower and Sabraon Branch with their distributaries, respectively.

=================================== Power and PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO Inspires Students at 'Centre for Human Rights and Duties'

Chandigarh, August 21Punjab Power and PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO delivered a motivational speech at the Centre for Human Rights and Duties, Punjab University on Wednesday. The Minister, who is also a PhD student from the same department, emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and dedication in achieving success.

"Education is a lifelong journey that begins from birth and continues till death," the Minister said while adding, “I myself started my career as a lecturer, and it is this passion for learning that has brought me to where I am today." He stressed that monetary matters play a negligible role in education, and with determination, anyone can acquire skills and knowledge.

The Minister urged students to strive for excellence and work tirelessly towards achieving their goals. "Indepth study and research are essential to mastering any subject. There is no substitute for hard work. I appeal to each and every one of you to fulfill your parents' aspirations and make them proud," he said.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of helping others and making a positive impact in society. He stressed that true success lies not only in achieving personal goals but also in making a positive difference in the lives of others. "We should lend a helping hand wherever we can. By doing so, we not only uplift others but also create a more compassionate and equitable society”, said Harbhajan Singh ETO.

The Minister delivered his address on the occasion of Prof. Namita Gupta assuming charge as the new Chairperson of the Centre for Human Rights and Duties, as Dr. Upneet Kaur Mangat bid farewell. He congratulated both the teachers, and exhorted the students to maximize the benefits of their opportunity to study at a world-class institution like Punjab University, acknowledging that not everyone is fortunate enough to receive such an education.

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On Chief Minister's commitment for clean environment, special campaign for cleanliness will be launched in all cities: Anurag Verma

Chief Secretary holds meeting with Deputy Commissioners and Local Government officials to make cities clean and waste free

Chandigarh, August 21: In accordance with the commitment of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to make the state clean and waste free & to ensure an environment friendly atmosphere, Chief Secretary Mr. Anurag Verma today directed to start a special campaign in the cities and towns of the state.

Chief Secretary Mr. Verma today took a meeting with Local Government officials, all Deputy Commissioners, Municipal Corporation Commissioners, Additional Deputy Commissioners (Urban Development) and EOs of Municipal Councils and Panchayats and said that the piles of garbage in the cities has been removed. It should now be managed immediately in an effective manner by making a comprehensive plan in this regard. Under this special campaign, arrangements should be made to dispose of the legacy wastage by taking new initiatives.

Mr. Verma said that the Deputy Commissioners should keep a constant review of the cleanliness drive. Apart from this, if there is a need for a place to set up a sewage treatment plant, in this regard the Deputy Commissioners should do the needful. Similarly, where the work of setting up the plant is going on, it should be speeded up. He said that the cleanliness of the surroundings is the responsibility of all of us and efforts should be accelerated to provide a clean environment to the residents of our city.

The meeting was also attended by Punjab Water Supply and Sewerage Board CEO Malwinder Singh Jaggi and Local Government Director Deepti Uppal.

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CM BHAGWANT MANN LED PUNJAB GOVT MULLS PROVIDING ₹1500 FINANCIAL AID, FREE TRANSPORTATION FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV

* Dr. Balbir Singh chairs maiden meeting of the State Council on AIDS

* Also asks to constitute task force for designing specific programmes for HIV infected persons to help them lead a dignified life

* Health Minister orders launching of mass-level IEC drive across the state

Chandigarh, August 21: Coming out with a plan to provide much needed handholding to the children infected and affected by HIV in the state, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government is all set to implement a major initiative to grant a monthly financial assistance of Rs. 1500 aid to children of HIV infected parents.

This was disclosed by Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, while chairing the 1st meeting of the State Council on AIDS at Prayas Bhawan here, on Wednesday.

Dr. Balbir Singh shared that the State Council put forth a proposal to offer free transportation service for infected patients from their homes to the treatment facility— Anti-Retroviral Therapy Centre once a month. Additionally, they have planned to establish a task force to develop tailored programs for individuals living with HIV, aiming to enhance their employability and enable them to lead a dignified life.

He further added that the meeting agreed to authorise the acceptance of documents verified by the Medical Officer of the Anti-Retroviral Therapy Centre (ART Centre) for various social welfare schemes implemented by different departments. This decision aims to ensure that individuals affected by HIV do not encounter obstacles or discrimination when accessing the benefits of these welfare programs.

Dr. Balbir Singh directed the Industry and Labour departments to ask Industry establishments to implement the HIV/AIDS Policy, besides designating a complaint officer to address issues of stigma and discrimination in all industries with 100 or more employees. Additionally, all industries were urged to incorporate HIV prevention and welfare concerns for individuals living with HIV into their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

While asking to organise HIV testing camps in the state, the Health Minister also directed the officials concerned to launch a mass-level Information, Education and Communication (IEC) drive across the state to raise awareness about the disease. He emphasised that people should be sensitised about prevention, care and support programmes.

The Health Minister categorically said that people living with HIV have the right to live a normal life and it's crucial for everyone to understand that HIV doesn't spread through touching, air or water. Transmission occurs through unprotected sex, sharing needles, syringes or other injecting equipment. He also highlighted that individuals with HIV who adhere to prescribed medication and achieve viral suppression can stay healthy and won't transmit the virus to others.

Dr. Balbir Singh said that all Panchayats can play a pivotal part by passing a resolution of ‘No stigma and discriminations’ towards people living with HIV in Gram Sabha meetings. He also emphasised to ensure IEC activities like installation of hoardings and wall painting in all Panchayat Bhawans.

Administrative Secretary Health and Family Welfare, Punjab Mr. Kumar Rahul, Deputy Director General (IEC) National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) Dr. Anoop Kumar Puri, Special Secretary Health-cum-Project Director Punjab State AIDS Control Society Mr. Varinder Kumar Sharma, Director Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Ms. Amrit Singh, Additional Secretary School Education Mr. Parminder Pal Singh, Director Medical Education & Research Dr. Avnish Kumar and other senior officials from Finance, Local Government, Rural Development, Home, Labour, Social Security, Woman & Child Development department were also present in the meeting.

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PUNJAB POLICE’S CYBER CRIME DIVISION BUSTS INTER-STATE CYBER FINANCIAL FRAUD RACKET OPERATING OUT OF WEST BENGAL; THREE HELD

— POLICE TEAMS RECOVER THREE MOBILE PHONES, A LAPTOP AND ₹30,900 FROM THEIR POSSESSION; OUT OF THE DEFRAUDED AMT ₹5.22L PUT ON LIEN

— PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO MAKING PUNJAB A SAFE AND SECURE STATE AS PER DIRECTIONS OF CM BHAGWANT SINGH MANN

— TWO OF ARRESTED PERSONS WERE EMPLOYEES OF FLIPKART, WHO HAVE RENTED THEIR BANK ACCOUNTS TO CYBER FRAUDSTERS FOR A COMMISSION: ADGP V NEERAJA

— IN LAST TWO MONTHS, 100 CASES REGISTERED IN CYBERCRIME POLICE STATIONS ACROSS STATE

CHANDIGARH, August 21:Amidst the ongoing drive to make Punjab a safe and secure state as per directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police’s Cyber Crime Division has busted an inter-state gang involved in Cyber Financial frauds with the arrest of three Cybercrime criminals from different districts of the West Bengal, said ADGP Cyber Crime Division V Neeraja here on Wednesday.

Those arrested have been identified as Shovon Saha, Abishek Kumar Singh and Parveen Kumar Rai. Police teams have also recovered three mobile phones, one laptop and Rs 30,900 from their possession.

As per the information, the Punjab State Cyber Crime Division had received a complaint regarding cyber fraud of Rs 49.60 lakhs, wherein the cyber fraudster sent a WhatsApp message to the accountant of the company by using display picture of owner, who is a Mohali-based Realtor. As the latter was unavailable to verify if the message was genuine, as he was in a meeting, the employee assumed the message to be from the owner the company and transferred the money into the Bank account given by the fraudster.

ADGP V Neeraja said that of the three arrested accused persons, two of them were employees of Flipkart, who have rented their bank accounts to cyber fraudsters for a commission.

“Another important suspect identified as Md Delowar Gazi was traced but he suffered multiple injuries after a fall, and was not in a position to travel. The latter joined the investigation and had revealed the names of other members of the gang,” she said.

The ADGP said that an amount of Rs 5,22,700 has been put on lien from third to ninth layer in 44 different bank accounts with the efforts of the Helpline 1930 team. Further, investigation of the case is in progress to unearth the network of cyber criminals in this case and more arrests are expected, she added.

Sharing operation details, SP State Cybercrime Division Jashandeep Singh Gill said that the matter was reported at the State Cybercrime after lapse of 12 hours and after reporting on NCRPortal, investigation was started by the Police Station State Cybercrime Division, Mohali.

He said that information was obtained regarding WhatsApp account, bank accounts and mobile numbers used by Cyber fraudsters, which were scrutinised and it was found that the amount in the first and second layer was transferred to Bank account holders from West Bengal.

Thereafter, Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) help was sought for co-ordination with Joint Cybercrime Coordination Teams (JCCT) West Bengal and a police team headed by Inspector Gaganpreet Singh and Inspector Deepak Bhatia left for Kolkata immediately, said the SP, while adding that with the help of multiple Open source intelligence (OSINT) techniques and help from nodal officers of Bank, the whereabouts of the accused persons in first and second layer were identified and arrested.

He said preliminary investigations have revealed that the fraudsters transferred the amount to 150 bank accounts in 9 layers and lien has been marked in 44 accounts.

A case FIR no. 21 dated 01/08/2024 was registered under sections 318, 319 and 61 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 66-C and 66-D of the IT Act at Police Station State Cyber Crime SAS Nagar.

Meanwhile, earnest efforts are being made by Cyber Crime Division of Punjab in nabbing cybercriminals operating from other States. During last two months, as many as 100 cases were registered in the Cybercrime Police Stations in all the 28 police districts in the state and an amount of Rs 23.46 crores of money of victims of cyber fraud was lien marked in the accounts of suspects

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PUNJAB GOVT CONSTITUTES TWO SUB COMMITTEES TO REVIEW CRUCIAL ISSUES OF EMPLOYEES

Chandigarh, August 21:The Punjab Government has formed two Cabinet Sub-Committees, comprising of Cabinet Ministers Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, Mr. Aman Arora and Mr. Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, tasked with reviewing crucial issues concerning with state government employees.

The official spokesperson of the state government disclosed today that the Cabinet Sub-Committees will be reviewing various important matters pertaining to Dearness Allowance (DA) and arrears from 01-07-2021 to 31-03-2024, revised pay/pension, leave encashment from 01-01-2016 to 30-06-2021 and granting full pension by considering qualifying services of 25 years of employees, who were retired between 01-01-2006 to 30-11-2011. A notification regarding this has been issued by the state government.