Following the path shown by Bhagwan Valmiki Ji to carve out an egalitarian society: asserts CM

Pays obeisance at Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Tirath Sthal (Ram Tirath) Amritsar

Asserts that state government will not leave any stone unturned for further beautification of this sacred land

Amritsar, October 17:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is following the path and high ideals shown by Bhagwan Valmiki Ji so as to carve out an egalitarian society.

Addressing the gathering after laying obeisance at Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Tirath Sthal (Ram Tirath) Amritsar, the Chief Minister reiterated that Bhagwan Valmiki Ji was the “Pitaamah” of Sanskrit language and first poet or the Adi Kavi of the world who by his immortal and masterpiece composition the “Ramayana” propagated the message of victory of good over evil. Bhagwant Singh Mann also said that the great epic has from centuries taught the way of life to the people and has been a lighthouse of ethical and moral living for the people which were far more relevant in the present materialistic society. He said that teachings of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji emphasized on the equality in the society along with the ethics of what an ideal man, ideal ruler and ideal people should follow for the creation of an ideal state or society.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab is the land of great Gurus, saints, seers and prophets adding that it is a matter of great pride that Bhagwan Valmiki ji had on this pious land imparted training to Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Ram ji. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he is fortunate to have got the opportunity to pay obeisance on this holy land. He said that the state government is committed to further pump in the resources for the comprehensive development of this sacred place.

The Chief Minister said that every possible step will be taken for further beautification of this place so as to perpetuate the life and philosophy of Bhagwan Valmiki ji. He said that the state government is following the footsteps of Bhagwan Valmiki ji for ensuring the well being of every starta of society. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is taking every possible step to further cement the ethos of communal harmony, brotherhood and peace in Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that there is no dearth of funds for the holistic development of this blessed land and no stone will be left unturned for it. He said that the state government has decided to end the inhuman treatment with the sewerage-men in Punjab by upgrading infrastructure. Bhagwant Singh Mann said the state government has purchased new machinery to facilitate the smooth execution of duty by sewerage-men.

Reiterating the firm commitment of state government to eliminate word contractual from government service, the Chief Minister said that the state government is already mulling a policy to regularise the services of sanitary workers. He said that a high powered committee has been already constituted for this purpose and a viable mechanism will soon be evolved for it. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he is the firm believer of fact that poverty will not be eliminated merely through lip service of leaders but it can be eradicated with empowerment of common man.

The Chief Minister said that education is the key that can pull people out of poverty by raising their standard of living. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government is tirelessly making efforts to improve the standard of education to empower the common man. He said that today the students from government schools are cracking the prestigious exams like JEE and others adding that it will help in improving their living standard.

The Chief Minister said that the state government is making concerted efforts for rejuvenating the health and education system in the state. He said that till now sending his child to government school was the compulsion of the common man but within six months it will be his wish to do so as the education system is being revamped. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Schools of Eminence have been set up across the state to impart quality education to the students adding that in similar manner the government health system is also being upgraded.

The Chief Minister said that 860 Aam Aadmi Clinics have already been established by the government which have treated more than 2 crore people and 95-percent of them are now healthy. He said that these clinics have been set up with which people are providing best health facilities to the people near their homes. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these clinics have also helped the government in preparing a database for checking the various diseases prevalent in the state and combating them effectively.

Likewise, the Chief Minister said that Sadak Surakhiya Force (SSF) launched by him on January 27, 2024 at PAP complex in Jalandhar and in eight months of its existence it has helped in reducing the number of deaths caused due to road accidents by 45.03%. He said that from February to September 2023, 1454 persons were killed on the roads of the state in accidents, whereas this year after launch of this force 794 persons have lost their lives in road casualties from February 2024 to September 2024. Likewise, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that 15309 injured were provided first aid treatment during this period adding that the response time of SSF in case of any casualty is merely 6-8 minutes and this force has emerged as ‘lifesaver’ for the people.

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CM DEDICATES BHAGWAN VALMIKI JI PANORAMA AT BHAGWAN SRI VALMIKI TIRATH STHAL (RAM TIRATH), AMRITSAR

CONSTRUCTED OVER NINE ACRES OF LAND AT A COST OF RS 32.78 CRORE PROJECT IS A HUMBLE TRIBUTE TO BHAGWAN SRI VALMIKI JI

14 GALLERIES EQUIPPED WITH HI-END TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASES LIFE AND PHILOSOPHY OF BHAGWAN SRI VALMIKI JI

Amritsar, October 17:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday dedicated state of the art Bhagwan Valmiki ji Panorama, situated in Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Tirath Sthal (Ram Tirath) to humanity.

Dedicating the project, the Chief Minister said that the world's first epic Ramayana was written by Adikavi Bhagwan Valmiki ji, who illuminated the world with his wisdom and philosophy. He said that in this first of its kind panorama the magic of technology blends with a deep narration thereby creating an immersive and divine environment for the visitor. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the panorama is a perfect blend of grandeur, aesthetics and architecture adding that it is a humble tribute to Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Ji by the state government.

The Chief Minister said that the Panorama complex is constructed over an area of nine acres and has been constructed at a cost of Rs 32.78 crore. He said that the Panorama is dedicated to Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Ji and showcases the story of his life, along with excerpts from the epic adding that this modern museum uses technology to narrate the life and contributions of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the panorama features a total of 14 galleries adding that each gallery is dedicated to a specific aspect of Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Ji's life and the Ramayana.

The Chief Minister said that these 14 galleries include Reception Area, attributes of Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Ji, Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Ji’s birth and early life, Aadi Kavi (the first poet), the first epic, creation of the Ramayana, characteristics of the Ramayana, Mata Sita & Luv Kush, Yogeshwar & Sangeeteswar, Sanjivani Vidhyake Swami, Ashwamedh Yagya, Yog Vaasishtha, Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Nam Mala and BhagwanValmiki Ji Blessings. He said that in addition to the galleries, the panorama also offers various amenities to enhance the visitor experience, including a cafeteria, souvenir shop, library and others. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these facilities will make the visit more convenient and enjoyable for guests.

The Chief Minister said that the Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Panorama is a significant cultural and historical addition and is expected to attract tourists and enthusiasts interested in the life and contributions of Bhagwan Sri Valmiki Ji and the epic of Ramayana. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this panorama is an engineering marvel spruced with rare architecture and designed aesthetically. He expressed hope that this initiative will not only preserve and promote cultural heritage but also provide an educational experience for all those who visit.

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Will ensure severest action against those trying to demean authority of Jathedar Takht Sahib: CM

Says exemplary action will be ensured in case of any complaint

Asserts that entire Sikh community is perturbed over casteist remarks against Jathedar Sahib and lewd comments against his family

Slams Akali leaders for indulging in sin to appease a single family

Chandigarh, October 17:Slamming the Akali leaders for trying to demean the position of Jathedar takht sahib, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday said that state government will take severest of severe action against accused of this sin, in case of any complaint.

In a message, the Chief Minister said that since centuries Jathedar Takht Sahib had been a supreme temporal authority of Sikhs. However, he said that from last few hours the entire humanity has seen the shameful face of Akali leaders who are trying to demean the authority of Jathedar sahib for their vested interests. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Akali leaders have shamefully shown grave disrespect to the authority of Jathedar Takht Sahib which is unwarranted and undesirable.

The Chief Minister said that the agnostic and haughty attitude of Akali leaders just to appease their political bosses from one family is highly condemnable. He said that this family has already done irreparable damage to Punjab in general and Sikh community in particular. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that recent act of Akali leadership has bruised the psyche of Sikh community and the people responsible for this heinous act will never be forgiven.

The Chief Minister unequivocally said that threatening Jathedar sahib and passing casteist comments against him and lewd remarks against his family members is intolerable. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that though the state government does not interfere in this matter but he assured that in case Punjab government gets any complaint against the people involved in this heinous crime against Jathedar sahib or his family will not be spared. He said that severest of severe action will be taken against the people who are behind this crime, even by making fake IDs, on social media will not be spared at any cost.

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DIWALI BONANZA BY BHAGWANT MANN GOVERNMENT AS COOPERATIVE BANK ANNOUNCES ZERO PROCESSING FEE FOR ONE MONTH ON ALL MAJOR LOANS

CM URGES PEOPLE TO AVAIL MAXIMUM BENEFIT OF THE SCHEME

REITERATES COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHEN COOPERATIVE SECTOR IN THE STATE

Chandigarh, October 17:In a Diwali Bonanza for bank account holders in the Punjab State Cooperative Bank, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has introduced a festive offer for the customers of the bank by offering zero processing charges on all major loans.

Speaking about the offer, the Chief Minister said that diwali is the time when people make purchases and this offer is to facilitate the customers of the bank to celebrate the upcoming festivals with a big bang. This move is also aimed at giving impetus to economic activity in cooperative banks. He said that the Zero processing fee is a limited period offer and will be valid from October 15 to November 15 2024. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this offer has been launched by the bank to facilitate its customers availing personal, Consumer and Vehicle loans from its 18 branches in Chandigarh.

The Chief Minister said that as per this offer, the customers are being offered a waiver in the processing fee/charges on these loan products by the Punjab State Cooperative bank during festivals. He said that the bank is providing Personal and Consumer loans to the salaried employees of Government Institutions for meeting their socio economic needs and purchase of consumer durable items for households. Citing an example, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that by availing vehicle loans from this bank at affordable rates one can drive away dream cars for the family.

The Chief Minister said that the customer getting any of these loans i.e. Personal Loan, Consumer Loan and Vehicle Loan will not have to pay any processing fee/charges during the offer period. He said that the customers can contact any of the 18 branches of Punjab State Cooperative Bank in Chandigarh to get benefit of this offer. Bhagwant Singh Mann, while reiterating the firm commitment of the state government to strengthen the cooperative sector, urged the people to take maximum benefit of this scheme.

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Laljit Singh Bhullar for adoption of AI-based and ultra-modern technology to enhance prison security

Preside over maiden meeting with jails officials, issues strict directives to make prisons completely crime-free and mobile-free

Announces construction of new jails and barracks to address overcrowding

Directs prisons to achieve financial self-sufficiency through various product manufacturing

Asks for proper implementation of welfare schemes for inmates and undertrials

Says, to discuss required funding with Chief Minister

Chandigarh, October 17:Punjab Jails Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar has stressed the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) based and ultra-modern technology to strengthen security measures across the state's correctional facilities.

During the maiden meeting with senior officials of jail department and superintendents from all state prisons, the Cabinet Minister averred that adopting cutting-edge technology is crucial for making prisons crime-free and preventing the use of mobile devices and other prohibited items. He directed officials to expedite the installation of advanced surveillance systems.

S. Bhullar said that he would meet Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to discuss funding allocation for the jail department, assuring adequate resources for modernization initiatives and essential amenities.

Addressing the issue of prison overcrowding, S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that new jails and additional barracks would be constructed across the state.

While highlighting Mann government’s commitment to improving the prison system by ensuring better facilities and security in jails, S. Laljit Singh Bhullar instructed officials to implement stringent security measures to make prisons completely crime-free. He asked that prisons should manufacture various products to achieve financial self-sufficiency. He said that proper implementation of welfare schemes and provision of basic amenities should be ensured for both convicted prisoners and undertrials.

During the comprehensive review meeting, S. Laljit Singh Bhullar focused on ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the correctional infrastructure and strategies to resolve existing challenges, infrastructure modernization, healthcare facility improvements, inter-departmental communication enhancement and rehabilitation programs.

The Cabinet Minister stressed for the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners into society through skill development programs and vocational training initiatives, aiming to reduce recidivism rates.

The Superintendents shared the specific challenges they face in their respective institutions, such as overcrowding, staffing shortages and resource constraints. The Cabinet Minister assured that the government would take prompt action to address these issues while implementing long-term measures to improve jail management.

Looking to the future, the Jails Minister outlined plans for expanding inmate educational programs, increasing the use of technology for monitoring and administration and promoting mental health and wellness initiatives.

S. Laljit Singh Bhullar expressed his confidence in the collective efforts of the Superintendents and the department to advance the reform agenda, ensuring that Punjab’s correctional facilities evolve to meet modern standards while contributing positively to the broader social fabric.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Mr. Alok Shekhar, Additional Chief Secretary, Jails; Mr. Arun Pal Singh, ADGP Prisons; Mr. R.K. Arora, IG Prisons; Mr. Surinder Singh, DIG Prisons Headquarters; all Superintendents of Jails and officers from the Prison Headquarters.

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Preachings of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji show right path in modern times: Cabinet minister Harpal Singh Cheema

Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema congratulate devotees at Dirba on the occasion of Pargat Diwas of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji

Chandigarh/Dirba, October 17-On the occasion of Pargat Diwas of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, Punjab Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema paid obeisance at Bhagwan Valmiki Temple at Dirba and congratulated all the devotees.

On this occasion, Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that everyone should take a vow to strengthen the mutual community on the occasion of this pious day. He said that preachings of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji show right path in modern times.

He said that Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar also emphasized on the right to education, therefore, efforts should be made to spread the light of equality and brotherhood by embracing education as much as possible.

Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that today Pargat Diwas of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji is being celebrated by the Punjab Government with full enthusiasm and the Sangats in different villages of the Vidhan Sabha Constituency Dirba are observing this day with full devotion and respect.

He said that there is a need for further promotion and dissemination of the teachings of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji so that the message given by him can reach every house.

On this occasion, the cabinet minister was also honored by the devotees in different villages.

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Following path shown by Bhagwan Valmiki Ji is greatest need of today: Harbhajan Singh ETO

Extends Heartfelt greetings on Bhagwan Valmiki Ji's Pargat Diwas

Says, Punjab government is committed to the welfare of Valmiki society

Chandigarh)Amritsar, October 17-Punjab Power and PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO congratulated the people on the auspicious occasion of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji's Pargat Diwas, emphasizing the importance of following Bhagwan Valmiki ji's teachings for achieving happiness and fostering brotherhood in society.

Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO was addressing the gathering after performing the flag ceremony and taking the blessings of Bhagwan Valmiki ji at the Lord Valmiki Temple in Nathuana Gate, Jandiala. He said that following the path shown by Bhagwan Valmiki Ji is the greatest need of today.

The cabinet minister stated that the timeless epic, Ramayana, penned by Bhagwan Valmiki ji, the first poet of Sanskrit, will perpetually illuminate the path of truth for the world. He said that through his literary contributions, Bhagwan Valmiki ji has significantly contributed to the creation of a virtuous society by guiding humanity towards moral values and welfare.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO also attended the events organized to mark the Pargat Diwas of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji at Bhushanpura, Gillwali Gate, Shastri Market and Village Mahala. He also participated in the grand procession organized on the occasion of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji's Pargat Diwas at Jandiala Guru.

Punjab Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO reaffirmed the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led government's dedication to the well-being of Valmiki society. On the auspicious occasion of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji's Pargat Diwas, he urged everyone to pledge to create a harmonious society.

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ECI issues schedule for Bye-elections in Punjab

Chandigarh, October 17: Punjab’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Sibin C, had stated that ECI had issued election schedule for holding Bye election from 10-Dera Baba Nanak, 44-Chabbewal (SC), 84-Gidderbaha and 103-Barnala Assembly Constituencies.

Giving further information, CEO said that the Gazette notification for the elections is scheduled to be issued on October 18. There after Nomination process will start and the last date for making nominations is October 25 (Friday). The scrutiny of nominations to take place on October 28, 2024 (Monday). The Candidates can withdraw their nominations till October 30, 2024. The Polling day is scheduled for November 13 (Wednesday), with the counting of votes set for November 23, 2024 (Saturday). The date for the completion of elections is November 25, 2024 (Monady). He informed that hours of poll will be from 7 AM to 6 PM.

Sibin C said that nominations can be filed with the Returning Officer for above said constituencies, between 11.00 AM and 03.00 PM on any of the notified days other than a public holiday from 18.10.2024 to 25.10.2024.

He said that the nomination papers are to be filled in FORM 2B. Blank forms are available with the concerned Returning Officer. Typed nomination paper will also be accepted provided they are in the prescribed format.

He further said that in order to qualify for a Assembly Constituency (Vidhan Sabha) seat, a candidate should be registered as an elector for any Constituency in the State and to satisfy the concerned Returning Officer on this point, the aspiring candidates should produce a certified copy of the relevant entry of the electoral roll in force.

Sibin C further said that October 19, 2024 being 3rd Saturday is not a holiday under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881, therefore, nomination papers can be presented to the Returning Officers on that day. But October 20, 2024 being Sunday is a holiday under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881, therefore, nomination papers can not be presented to the Returning Officers on that day.

He said that the Model Code of Conduct has come into force in the concerned districts from the date of announcement of bye elections i.e October 15, 2024 by the Election Commission of India and shall remain in force till the completion of the election process.

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Lord Valmiki's birth anniversary celebrated with great devotion at Kendri Mandir Patti

Cabinet Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar pays respects

Chandigarh/Patti (Tarn Taran), October 17:The birth anniversary of Lord Valmiki was celebrated with profound devotion and reverence at the Kendri Mandir in Patti, wherein Cabinet Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar paid his respects to Lord Valmiki.

In his address, S. Bhullar said that Lord Valmiki is the creator of the Great epic Ramanyana, which conveys the message of respecting elders, showing affection to younger ones and universal harmony. On this occasion, he performed havan yag for universal well-being.

Later, the Adi Dharam Samaj organized a flag procession from Pippal Mohalla in Patti. Bhajan singer Rajesh Sandhu enthralled the congregation with devotional songs dedicated to Lord Valmiki. The Kendri Valmiki Mandir Management Committee honoured Cabinet Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar. The Valmiki community attended in large numbers.

The event was attended by numerous dignitaries including Dilbag Singh Sandhu (PA Chairman Market Committee Harike), Varinderjit Singh Hira Bhullar, Balkar Singh (Senior Vice President Municipal Council Patti) and many other local leaders and community representatives.

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Teachings & ideals of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji emphasize an equitable & just society: Lal Chand Kataruchak

Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, Forest & Wildlife Preservation Minister attends event to mark birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji

Chandigarh/Pathankot, October 17:The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Forest & Wildlife Preservation Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak today marked his presence at a function held here today on the occasion of the Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. Bowing with reverence before the statue of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, the Minister also took part in a Havan.

The Minister said that the teachings and the ideals of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji emphasize an equitable and just society besides giving the message to the people that we all are equal. He exhorted the people to follow the ideology of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji.

Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Maharaj was the first Adi Kavi of the world who gave the message of good emerging victorious over evil through his great and timeless epic RAMAYANA which till today is a perfect example of how to live a life full of morality and ideals, said the Minister adding that occasions as today's go a long way in propagating far and wide the philosophy of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. These great ideals are acting as a shining lighthouse to guide our youth towards the path of moral values. The Minister congratulated the organizers for keeping alive the glorious legacy of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji through such events.

On the occasion, Mr. Kataruchak was felicitated by the organizers and presented with the painting of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. The Minister also announced a grant of Rs. 5 lakh for the modernization of Bhagwan Valmiki Chowk from Municipal Corporation.