Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak invites the youth to follow the path shown by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

Cabinet Minister presides over the district-level function on the occasion of 134th birth anniversary of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar

For the first time in history, 6 ministers belonging to Scheduled Castes became minister in the Punjab Cabinet - Kataruchak

State government ensures timely distribution of funds under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme

Punjab Government committed to realizing the dreams of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar - Kataruchak

Chandigarh/Dinanagar/Gurdaspur, April 14-Cabinet Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Forests and Wildlife Preservation, Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak has invited the youth to follow the path shown by Bharat Ratna Dr. B. R. To create an equal and progressive society by following the ideology of Ambedkar. He said that following the path shown by Baba Saheb is the most appropriate tribute to Baba Saheb.

On the occasion of the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, during the district level function organized by the district administration at SSM College Dinanagar, Cabinet Minister Shri Lal Chand Kataruchak highlighted the contribution of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the main architect of the Indian Constitution, and said that he dedicated his entire life to equality, brotherhood and humanity and made great efforts for the upliftment of the oppressed classes. He said that Dr. Ambedkar's vision of social and political equality is as relevant today as it was before. Describing Dr. Ambedkar as a great universal personality, Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak appealed to the youth to take inspiration from his life and work towards building an inclusive and just society.

He said that the Punjab Government is following the footsteps of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Sahib and is making special efforts for the welfare of the Scheduled Castes. He said that for the first time in history, 6 ministers in the cabinet of the Punjab Government belong to the Scheduled Castes. He said that unlike the previous governments, the state government has ensured timely disbursement of funds under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme. He said that students across the state are getting huge benefits from this scheme. He said that the Punjab Government has waived off the loans issued by the SC Corporation before March 31, 2020, which has benefited the persons who were unable to repay due to financial constraints. Apart from this, for the first time, posts have been reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the A.G. office.

The Cabinet Minister further said that the state government is committed to providing maximum employment to the youth and so far more than 50,000 government jobs have been given by the state government on the basis of merit.

Reiterating the commitment of the Punjab government to uphold the principles of Dr. Ambedkar, Cabinet Minister Mr. Kataruchak said that the state government has ensured the installation of Pictures of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar and Shaheed-e-Azam S. Bhagat Singh in all government offices. On this occasion, he strongly condemned the targeting of Baba Saheb's statues by some anti-national forces. He said that the Punjab government will not spare any culprit who commits such a heinous act.

On this occasion, a booklet was also released by Cabinet Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak showing the government's initiatives for the welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes and Minority communities. The district administration, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Mr. Dalwinderjit Singh, honored Cabinet Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak and other guests by giving mementos for participating in this district-level event.

Earlier, the students who had benefited from the post-matric scholarship scheme also shared their personal experiences and thanked the state government for providing scholarships.

On this occasion, MLA S. Gurdeep Singh Randhawa, Chairman Mr. Raman Bahl, Chairman Mr. Jagroop Singh Sekhwan and Shamsher Singh also paid their respects to Baba Sahib, calling him a man of the age. SDM Dinanagar S. Jaspinder Singh welcomed the guests while Deputy Commissioner Mr. Dalwinderjit Singh thanked the chief guest and other guests.

During the event, MLA of Vidhan Sabha constituency Dera Baba Nanak S. Gurdeep Singh Randhawa, Chairman Punjab Health Systems Corporation Mr. Raman Bahl, Chairman District Planning Committee Gurdaspur S. Jagroop Singh Sekhwan, eminent public leader and District Urban President of Aam Aadmi Party Mr. Shamsher Singh, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Dalwinderjit Singh, SSP Gurdaspur Mr. Aditya, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Mr. Gurpreet Singh Gill, SDM Dinanagar Mr. Jaspinder Singh, Assistant Commissioner (G) Mr. Aditya Gupta, SDM Gurdaspur S. Manjit Singh Rajla, PCS Officer Rupinderpal Singh, Principal SSM College Dr. R.K. Tuli, District Social Justice and Empowerment Officer S. Sukhwinder Singh and Civil Surgeon Dr. Prabhjot Kalsi were also present.

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MANN GOVERNMENT FULFILLS DR. AMBEDKAR'S VISION: RECORD SC CABINET REPRESENTATION, HISTORIC AG OFFICE RESERVATION AND STREAMLINED SCHOLARSHIP SYSTEM, ASSERTS BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL

CABINET MINISTER PAYS FLORAL TRIBUTES TO DR. BR AMBEDKAR ON HIS 134TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY AT GURU NANAK COLLEGE, BUDHLADA

SAYS, DR. AMBEDKAR ILLUMINATED PEOPLE'S LIVES WHILE HIMSELF LIVING THROUGH HARDSHIPS

Chandigarh/Budhlada, April 14:Punjab Cabinet Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal, on Monday, said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government is fulfilling Baba Saheb Dr. BR Ambedkar's vision through unprecedented representation and reforms. For the first time in history, Mann government has appointed six Ministers from the Scheduled Caste community to the Cabinet, implemented reservation in the Advocate General's office and established a seamless system for SC scholarship disbursement.

While addressing a function dedicated to Dr. Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary at Guru Nanak College, Budhlada, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal informed that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government, following Dr. Ambedkar's footsteps, is providing scholarships, assistance under Ashirwad Scheme, assistance for self-employment and a large number of government jobs without any recommendations or other mean, enabling qualified and capable children from society to secure employment.

The Cabinet Minister was accompanied by Budhlada MLA Principal Budh Ram, Sardulgarh MLA Gurpreet Singh Banawali, Deputy Commissioner Kulwant Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner Akash Bansal, SDM Mansa Kala Ram Kansal and SDM Budhlada Gagandeep Singh.

Sh. Goyal said that Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar illuminated the lives of people while himself living through hardships. He always stressed for education for the overall welfare of oppressed and marginalized sections of society, believing that education is like a lioness's milk; whoever drinks it will roar.

The Cabinet Minister said that Dr. Ambedkar is the architect of the Constitution, which provided equal rights and the right to education to every section of society. Due to which, the young generation of marginalized society are educated and appointed to high constitutional positions in today's era. "Baba Sahib's vision and tireless efforts laid the foundation for a progressive India", said the Cabinet Minister, adding that his efforts to eliminate caste-based discrimination and promote social equality are a source of inspiration for us.

Earlier, Budhlada MLA Principal Budh Ram shed light on Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar's life, ideology, struggles and achievements, highlighting his tireless efforts for the welfare of all humanity. He said that we all need to follow Baba Sahib's ideology.

Sardulgarh MLA S. Gurpreet Singh Banawali said that Dr. Ambedkar is one such personality, who not only fought against social evils that he himself experienced, but also created the Constitution to eliminate these malpractices.

The Cabinet Minister also handed over certificates of Post-Matric Scholarship, Self-Employment Loan Scheme and Ashirwad Scheme to the beneficiaries.

Prominent amongst others who were present on the occasion included District Planning Committee Chairman Charanjit Singh Akkanwali, Market Committee Mansa Chairman Gurpreet Singh Bhucchar, Market Committee Budhlada Chairman Satish Singla, Market Committee Bhikhi Chairman Varinder Soni, Market Committee Boha Chairman Ranjit Singh, Cooperative Society Chairman Sohna Singh Kalipur, SP(H) Jaskeerat Singh Ahir, DSP Pritpal Singh, College Principal Narinder Singh, Vice Principal Rekha Kalra, Professor Gurdeep Singh Dhillon, college staff and students.

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WITH 6 SC MINISTERS IN CABINET, FIRST TIME EVER RESERVATION IN AG OFFICE & HASSLE FREE DISBURSEMENT OF SC SCHOLARSHIP ; AAP GOVT IS REALISING THE DREAM OF BABA SAHEB

FOLLOWING THE PATH SHOWN BY DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR IS THE TRUE TRIBUTE TO BABA SAHIB: HARPAL SINGH CHEEMA

Presides Over District-Level Event Celebrating the 134th Birth Anniversary of the Chief Architect of the Indian Constitution

Chandigarh/Jalandhar, April 14:Highlighting the transformative initiatives undertaken by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government to uphold the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday said that with six Scheduled Caste (SC) Ministers in the cabinet, the AAP government has set a precedent in representation and inclusivity. He said for the first time ever, Punjab Government has introduced reservation in the Advocate General’s office, ensuring equitable opportunities in the legal domain. Additionally, the hassle-free disbursement of SC scholarships has empowered countless students to pursue their dreams without financial barriers.

Addressing a district-level function held at DAVIET, Jalandhar to commemorate the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema also called upon the youth to become torchbearers of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideology, asserting that walking on the path shown by the revered leader is the most befitting tribute to Baba Sahib. The Minister, accompanied by MLAs Balkar Singh and Inderjit Kaur Mann, Mayor Vineet Dhir, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, and Commissioner of Police Ms. Dhanpreet Kaur, emphasized that Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of social and political equality remains as relevant today as ever.

Highlighting Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contribution as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Cheema said that his efforts ensured universal suffrage; empowering every citizen to participate equally in the democratic process. “The dream of an equitable and progressive society can only be realized when we actively engage in the democratic process and exercise our right to vote responsibly,” he said.

Calling Dr. Ambedkar a towering global personality, Mr. Cheema urged students to draw inspiration from his life and work to build an inclusive and just society. He added that Dr. Ambedkar not only framed the Constitution but also laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Reserve Bank of India, showcasing his farsighted vision.

The Minister highlighted the Punjab Government's commitment to upholding Dr. Ambedkar's principles under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. “In a historic move, this government ensured that the portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar are displayed in all government offices, replacing the previous practice of featuring then-serving Chief Ministers,” he noted.

Mr. Cheema also detailed several initiatives undertaken for the welfare of Scheduled Castes, including the reservation of 58 posts for SC/ST candidates in the appointment of advocates to the AG office. He pointed out that the state government has ensured timely disbursal of funds under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, in contrast to previous Governments, which he accused of misappropriating funds meant for SC students.

In a major relief to marginalized families, Mr. Cheema said the Punjab Government has waived loans issued by the SC Corporation before March 31, 2020, benefiting individuals unable to repay due to financial hardship.

Encouraging students to take advantage of the state's ongoing mega employment drive, the Minister informed that over 50,000 government jobs have already been filled. “Many more opportunities are coming, and our youth must be well-prepared to seize them,” he added.

On the occasion, the Minister distributed allotment letters to beneficiaries under the Ashirwad Scheme, Shagun Scheme, and Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme. Several beneficiaries also shared personal stories of how these welfare schemes have provided vital support during times of need.

The Minister also released a coffee table book showcasing the government’s initiatives for the welfare of SC/ST and minority communities. District Administration led by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal honoured the Minister with a momento for this participation in this District Level Event.

Prominent amongst others present on the occasion included Chairman Punjab Minorities Commission Abdul Bahri Salmani, Chairman improvement trust Rajwinder Kaur Thiara, Chairman Punjab Agri Export Limited Mangal Singh Bassi, AAP District Urban President and Chairman District Planning Committee Amritpal Singh. AAP District President Rural Stephen Kaler, Advisor Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board Deepak Bali, Pawan Kumar Tinu, Halqa Incharge Jeet Lal Bhatti and Principal Prem Kumar.

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WITH 6 SC MINISTERS IN CABINET, FIRST TIME EVER RESERVATION IN AG OFFICE & HASSLE FREE DISBURSEMENT OF SC SCHOLARSHIP ; AAP GOVT IS REALISING THE DREAM OF BABA SAHEB: HARJOT BAINS

•Unity in Diversity Envisioned by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Still Intact

•Pays floral tributes to Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar on 134th Birth Anniversary at RBU Kharar

•Indian Constitution is still a last hope for getting justice against supression

•Termed him Messiah for the downtrodden sections for safeguarding their interests in a holy book•

Chandigarh/ SAS Nagar, April 14:Punjab Education and Information & Public Relations Minister, Harjot Singh Bains, today said with 6 SC monisters in cabinet, first time ever reservation in AG (Advocate General) Office and Hassle free disbursement of SC Scholarship, AAP Government is realising the dream of Baba Saheb, Dr B R Ambedkar in Punjab.

Paying floral tributes to Dr B R Ambedkar, on his 134th birth anniversary organised by the District Administration Mohali at Rayat Bahra University (RBU) Kharar alongwith Member of Parliament S. Malvinder Singh Kang, he recalled the selfless services rendered by Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, who is remembered as “The Father of the Constitution of India” and the man who fought for the oppressed.” He said that the foundational principle of Unity in Diversity, envisioned by the architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, continues to remain intact despite various challenges.

Terming the Indian Constitution as one of the finest in the world, Bains said that it stands as the last hope for justice for the marginalized sections of society. “Thanks to the visionary and farsighted leadership of Babasaheb Ambedkar, our Constitution has consistently safeguarded the rights of every citizen, especially the downtrodden,” he remarked.

Calling him the Messiah for the downtrodden sections by safeguarding their interests in a holy book, the Minister Bains said that education is the key to eradicate all indiscriminatoins and inequalities and the Punjab Government led by S. Bhagwant Singh Mann is walking the extra mile to provide quality education to the wards of poor families studing in Government Schools by upgrading the infrastructure and level of learning at par with Private ones.

He said that the Punjab Government led by S. Bhagwan Singh Mann is the first Government across the country having portraits of Dr B R Ambedkar and Shaheed e Azam S. Bhagat Singh as National ICONs in all government offices.

Member of Parliament, Sri Anandpur Sahib, S. Malvinder Singh Kang while paying rich tribute to Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, said that we should not limit such a great and visionary personality to a particular class. Recalling his remarkable contribution to our Nation, he said that the Constitution architectured by Dr Ambedkar provides safeguards to all classes. He exhoted youth to go through his (Dr B R Ambedkar) literature to imbibe his teachings for building a healthy society and Nation.

On this occasion, Students Amanpreet Kaur (Pursuing BDS from RBU) and Rajni (Diploma in Modern Office Practice from Govt Polytechnic Khooni Majra) shared their experiences how the Post Matric Scholarship scheme helps them to continue their study. Teachers, Dr Ravinder Kumar from Govt Polytechnic Khooni Majra and Dr Ramndeep Kaur from Rayat Bahra University also narrated the success stories of Post Matric Scholarship scheme.

Education Minister also handed over sanction letters of Post Matric Scholarship scheme to seven students and of Ashirwad (Shagun) Scheme to five beneficiaries on this occasion. It is worth mentioning that this year, 7461 students in the district have been given approval of post-matric scholarships and 790 families have been given the benefit of the Ashirwad scheme worth Rs. 4.29 crore.

Among the prominent persons present there included Chancellor, Rayat & Bahra University, Gurvinder Singh Bahra, Chairperson, District Planning Committee, Prabhjot Kaur, Chairman, Punjab Youth Development Board, Parminder Singh Goldy, Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal, SDM Kharar Gurmander Singh, District Social Justice and Empowement Officer Ashish Kathuria while Prof Simar Shergill presented vote of thanks on behalf of RBU.

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With Six SC Ministers in the Cabinet, First-Ever Reservation in AG Office, and Hassle free Disbursement of SC Scholarships, Punjab Government Realizing Baba Saheb’s Vision: Tarunpreet Singh Sond

- Punjab government mandates the installation of portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in all government offices

Chandigarh/Fatehgarh Sahib, April 14:On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond paid floral tributes at Dr. Ambedkar’s statue at the Fatehgarh Sahib District Administrative Complex. He also presided as the Chief Guest at a seminar organized jointly by the District Administration and Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib.

Sond was accompanied by Advocate Lakhbir Singh Rai, MLA from Fatehgarh Sahib, and Rupinder Singh Happy, MLA from Bassi Pathana.

Addressing the gathering, Tarunpreet Singh Sond stated that the Punjab government led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, is earnestly working to fulfill the dream envisioned by Dr. Ambedkar. For the first time in Punjab’s history, six Scheduled Caste (SC) ministers are part of the state cabinet. He also highlighted that reservation has been implemented in the Advocate General’s office for the first time, and the SC Post Matric Scholarship Scheme is being disbursed in a streamlined, transparent manner, ensuring maximum benefit to eligible students.

Describing Dr. Ambedkar as a visionary, a reformer, and the architect of modern India, Minister Sond emphasized that the Constitution drafted under his leadership is not only the cornerstone of India’s democracy but also a powerful safeguard of citizens’ rights. He reiterated that education and social justice were at the heart of Dr. Ambedkar’s mission, and following his path is key to building an empowered and equitable nation.

He further informed that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab government has mandated the installation of portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in all government offices, to inspire future generations. He underscored that education is a transformative force, and Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy exemplifies how knowledge can uplift entire communities.

Highlighting government achievements, he noted that over 15,000 students have shifted from private to government schools due to improved infrastructure and academic standards. Thousands of students are benefiting from the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme, while eligible beneficiaries under the Ashirwad Scheme are also receiving timely support.

MLAs Lakhbir Singh Rai and Rupinder Singh Happy also addressed the seminar, praising Dr. Ambedkar’s contribution to the nation and his enduring message of equality, education, and women’s empowerment. They reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuing initiatives that align with his ideals.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Sona Thind welcomed the dignitaries, and Vice Chancellor Dr. Pritpal Singh extended the formal vote of thanks. During the seminar, students who have benefitted from the SC Post Matric Scholarship shared their experiences and expressed gratitude to the Punjab government. Sanction letters were also distributed to Ashirwad Scheme beneficiaries.

The seminar concluded with a ceremonial felicitation of the Cabinet Minister by the District Administration and University authorities. A booklet prepared by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment was also released on this occasion.

Prominent attendees included District Planning Committee Chairman Ajay Singh Libra, SSP Shubham Aggarwal, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Surinder Singh Dhaliwal, SDM Bassi Pathana Harveer Kaur, SDM Amloh Chetan Bangar, SDM Arvind Kumar, Market Committee Sarhind Chairman Gurvinder Singh Dhillon, Director, Labour Welfare Board Punjab, Raj Puri, Punjab Mandi Board Member Inderjeet Singh, and other dignitaries including Kanwarveer Singh Rai, Chaman Qureshi, Pritpal Jassi, Satish Latour, Navi Sirhind, Baljinder Gola, Ashish Attri, Ashish Sood, Deepak Batish, along with university faculty and students.

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Ambedkar Jayanti celebrated with fervor and enthusiasm at Malerkotla

- In a first, six SC ministers in the cabinet are working and reservation has also been implemented in the AG office

- Dr B R Ambedkar's vision serves as a guiding light for all generations - Dr Balbir Singh

- Highlights significant steps taken by the government to uphold Dr. Ambedkar's ideals

- Says, government is committed to build more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive

Chandigarh/Malerkotla, 14 April -The 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm at Government College Malerkotla. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Cabinet Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, who attended as the chief guest.

In his address, Dr. Balbir Singh paid rich tributes to Dr. Ambedkar, emphasizing that his vision serves as a guiding light for all generations. Dr. Ambedkar's tireless efforts towards championing social equality and empowerment have left an indelible mark on Indian society.

He said that this is the first time that six Scheduled Caste ministers are part of the state Cabinet and reservation has also been implemented in the Advocate General's office. He said that now eligible Scheduled Caste students are getting scholarships without any hassle. By doing this, the AAP government of the state is fulfilling the dreams of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar ji in the true sense.

Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of inclusivity in national progress, stating that nations thrive when all sections of society are taken along. He urged the people to adopt the mantra of "Educate, Connect, and Struggle" to foster a more equitable society. This mantra, he emphasized, is particularly relevant in today's context, where social and economic disparities continue to pose significant challenges. By embracing this mantra, individuals and communities can work together to build a more just and equitable society.

Dr. Ambedkar's life is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. From his early days as a marginalized individual to his later years as a champion of social justice, Dr. Ambedkar's journey is an inspiration to people from all walks of life.

The Cabinet Minister also highlighted significant steps taken by the government to uphold Dr. Ambedkar's ideals. One notable initiative is the installation of portraits of Dr. Ambedkar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh in government offices. This move symbolizes the government's commitment to the values of social justice and equality that these icons represent. Furthermore, the government has prioritized school upgrades and infrastructure development in Punjab, recognizing the critical role that education plays in empowering individuals and communities. Notably, the government has provided employment opportunities to over 52,000 individuals, promoting growth and progress.

He said that government schemes aimed to empower students from marginalized communities, providing them with the financial support and resources they need to pursue their educational goals. By investing in education, the government is committed to building a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

In his welcome address, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Viraj S. Tidke delivered a comprehensive overview of Dr. Ambedkar's life journey, highlighting his struggles and achievements. MLAs Dr. Jamil Ur Rehman and Jaswant Singh Gajjanmajra also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of Dr. Ambedkar's legacy in contemporary society.

The ceremony also included a lecture on various government scholarship schemes, delivered by college faculty member. The chief guest distributed certificates under the Shagun Scheme and Scholarship Scheme to students.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including SSP Gagan Ajit Singh, Chairman Saqib Ali Raja, Farhal Rehman, Garry Malhotra Australia, ADC Sukhpreet Singh Sidhu, SDM Harbans Singh, Assistant Commissioner (G) Gurmeet Kumar Bansal and others.

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Vigilance Bureau arrests Superintendent Engineer for demanding 10 percent commission from contractor

Chandigarh, April 14, 2025 -The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), during its ongoing campaign against corruption, on Monday, arrested Superintendent Engineer (SE) Sanjay Kanwar, posted at Municipal Corporation Ludhiana for demanding commission from a contractor.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the arrest has been made following a complaint lodged by a contractor, a resident of Ludhiana.

He further added that the complainant has approached the VB and alleged that he had applied for a tender for redevelopement project at Nehru Rose Garden, Civil Lines, Ludhiana and aforesaid accused SE had demanded 10 percent commission as a bribe in lieu of allotment of this tender work to him. This conversation was recorded by the complainant and submitted to the VB as an evidence.

The spokesperson informed that after preliminary verification of this complaint a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act has been registered against the aforementioned SE Sanjay Kanwar at the VB Police Station, Ludhiana Range and arrested him. The accused would be produced before the competent court tomorrow and further investigation was under progress, he said.

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BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL KICK STARTS WHEAT PROCUREMENT AT MOONAK AND KHANAURI MANDIS

NO NEGLIGENCE AND LAXITY WILL BE TOLERATED IN PROCUREMENT ARRANGEMENTS: CABINET MINISTER TO OFFICIALS

Chandigarh/Moonak/Khanauri, April 14:Punjab Cabinet Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today kick started wheat procurement at mandis of Moonak and Khanauri.

During his visit, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal also asked concerned officials that any inconvenience caused to farmers coming to sell their produce throughout the season would not be tolerated. "Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has already given strict instructions in this regard and it is the duty of every official stationed at the mandi to ensure that the entire procurement process proceeds seamlessly", he added.

While inspecting the procurement arrangements, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal also reviewed various facilities including cleanliness arrangements and drinking water provisions in mandis. He interacted with farmers, labourers and transporters, assuring them that no segment would face any difficulties in mandis throughout the procurement season.

He was accompanied by PA Rakesh Kumar Gupta, President of the Arthiya Association Raj Kumar Goyal, Purshotam Lal, Ashok Kumar, Vikram Kumar, Sukhdarshan Jain, Arun Jindal, Block President Satish Kumar, Block President Jagseer Malana, MC Moonak, Babbu Singh, MC Bhola Singh, MC Moonak Mithu Saini, Market Secretary Amarinder Singh, and officials from purchasing agencies including Markfed, Warehouse and Pungrain.

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YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH: PUNJAB POLICE ARRESTS 5974 DRUG SMUGGLERS IN 45 DAYS; 243KG HEROIN, 109KG OPIUM, ₹6CR DRUG MONEY RECOVERED

— ON DAY 45, PUNJAB POLICE ARRESTS 48 DRUG SMUGGLERS; 3.7KG HEROIN, 6.04L DRUG MONEY RECOVERED

— PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO MAKING PUNJAB A DRUG-FREE STATE AS PER DIRECTIONS OF CM BHAGWANT SINGH MANN

— OVER 200 POLICE TEAMS LED BY 75 SP/DSP RANK OFFICERS CHECKED 429 SUSPICIOUS PERSONS: SPL DGP ARPIT SHUKLA

CHANDIGARH, April 14:With the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state completed 45 days, Punjab Police has registered 3610 first information reports and arrested 5974 drug smugglers since March 1, 2025.

Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann had asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. Since the launch of the Yudh Nashian Virudh campaign, Punjab Police under the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav has been conducting different operations including cordon and search operations, night domination and raids at drug hotspots acros the state.

Divulging details, Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla, who has been personally monitoring these operations, said that police teams have recovered 243 kg heroin, 109 kg opium, 75.5 quintals poppy husk, 6 kg charas, 63 kg ganja, 2.2 kg ICE, 1.2 kg cocaine, 9.50 lakh intoxicant pills/tablets and Rs 6.1 crores drug money from their possession.

Sharing details of outcome of Day 45, the Special DGP said that Punjab Police has arrested 48 drug smugglers and recovered 3.7 kg heroin and ₹604200 drug money from their possession.

Over 200 Police teams, comprising over 1100 police personnel, under the supervision of 75 gazetted officers have conducted raids at as many as 382 locations across the state leading to the registration of 34 first information reports (FIRs) across the state, he said, while adding that police teams have also checked as many as 429 suspicious persons during the day long operation.

Meanwhile, the state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of ‘De-addiction’ has convinced one person to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment.

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Punjab Government committed for the welfare of the underprivileged class as per the views of Dr. B.R Ambedkar –Sandhwan

· Implemented reservation policy in AG office for the first time, resume scholarship for the poor people and install photos of Dr. B.R Ambedkar and Shahid Bhagat Singh in Government offices

· Punjab Government has created history by inducting six ministers from the Scheduled Caste category in the cabinet and has given due status to this community.

Chandigarh/ Faridkot April 14:A district level function was organized at Bhagat Chetan Dev Government B.Ed College, Faridkot in connection with the 134th birth centenary of the great man of the era and the architect of the Indian Constitution, renowned social reformer Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar. Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan attended the event as a chief guest while MLA Faridkot S. Gurdit Singh Sekhon also attended this event as a special guest.

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan in his address said that Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, architect of the Constitution of India always worked for social reform and upliftment of the downtrodden people of the society. After coming to power, we have placed the photos of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh in every Government office so that people could take inspiration from them. He added that the Punjab Government has also re launched the scholarships schemes for the scheduled castes and backward class students.

Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan added that Dr. B. R Ambedkar was a symbol of unity and integrity and the Punjab Government has decided to take forward the thinking of Dr. B. R Ambedkar and work for the downtrodden people of the Punjab. In this way, the Punjab Government has decided to educate the children of this class as much as possible so that they can get a respectable place in the society. He emphasized that the Punjab Government has created history by inducting six ministers from the Scheduled Caste category in the cabinet and has given due status to this community. He further highlighted that reservation policy has also been implemented in the Advocate General office for the first time and other welfare schemes have also been started for the welfare of underprivileged class.

MLA S. Gurdit Singh Sekhon in his address congratulated the people of Punjab on the occasion of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar birthday and said that Baba Saheb brought the different communities, castes and religions of the country into a single chain by giving them the Right to Equality in accordance with the Constitution and protected the rights of all classes. Furthermore, he said that we should follow the teachings of Dr. B. R Ambedkar and contribute to the progress and development of the poor class.

On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner Poonamdeep Kaur also paid tribute to Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar and briefly shared her thoughts on his life, struggle, and contribution to the Constitution. She said that we need to be aware of our rights as well as our duties. She thanked all the guests and dignitaries for the success of the program.