Under leadership of CM, Punjab attains Remarkable Achievements in Sports
2024 belonged to Punjab in the world of sports
CM Initiates Advance Financial Support for Athletes’ Preparation
19 out of 100 Indian athletes at Paris Olympics hail from Punjab
Eight players in the bronze medal-winning Indian hockey team are from Punjab
11 renowned players awarded PCS and DSP jobs in Punjab
Establishment of 1,000 sports nurseries to nurture talent; work on 260 nurseries started in the first phase
First-time inclusion of para-sports in the ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan’ initiative
Chandigarh, December 25:Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government has achieved exceptional milestones in the field of sports, making 2024 a memorable year for the state.
A spokesperson from the Chief Minister’s Office revealed that the Chief Minister had envisioned to Punjab a front runner state in sports and fostered a sports culture by implementing a new sports policy in 2023. The results of this policy were evident in 2024.
The spokesperson added that out of 100 Indian athletes participating in the Paris Olympics, 19 were from Punjab, including 10 hockey players, six shooters, two athletes, and one golfer. Additionally, three athletes from Punjab participated in the Paris Paralympics, comprising one para-athlete, one para-badminton player, and one para-powerlifter. Under the new sports policy, 22 athletes received ₹15 lakh each for preparation, amounting to a total of ₹3.30 crore.
Highlighting the achievements, the spokesperson mentioned that the Indian hockey team made history by winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, with eight players from Punjab. Each of these players was awarded ₹1 crore, totaling ₹8 crore. Two reserve players received ₹15 lakh each. Other Olympians and Paralympians from Punjab also received ₹15 lakh each. In total, ₹13.10 crore was distributed among the 22 athletes for preparation, participation, and rewards. Harmanpreet Singh, the Indian team captain, became the top scorer of the Olympics with 10 goals, bringing immense pride to Punjab.
In a significant step, 11 prominent athletes were offered government jobs in Punjab, with nine hockey players (four as PCS officers and five as DSPs), one athlete, and one cricketer being appointed.
To further enhance sports culture, the state launched a project to establish 1,000 sports nurseries. In 2024, work began on 260 nurseries in the first phase. These nurseries aim to provide top-notch coaching, equipment, and facilities for budding athletes.
The Chief Minister also introduced the third edition of the ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan’ in 2024, which saw participation from nearly five lakh athletes across 37 sports and nine age groups. For the first time, para-sports were included in the event to ensure equal opportunities for all athletes to showcase their talent.
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Key Initiatives for Tourism and Cultural Development under CM Mann’s Leadership in 2024: Tarunpreet Singh Sond
Chandigarh, December 25: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government has undertaken several significant initiatives in 2024 for the promotion of tourism and the flourishing of the cultural sector in the state.
Providing details, Punjab’s Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, stated that more than Rs. 73 crore was spent this year on the preservation, restoration, and modernization of ancient and historical monuments related to tourism and culture. Many new projects were inaugurated, while several others aimed at boosting tourism were launched this year.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to revitalizing Punjab’s rich heritage and enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination, which includes, upgradation and renovation of Shaheed Bhaghat Singh Museum and Light & Sound Show at Khatkar Kalan, Ultra-modern Bus Terminal and Interpretation Centre at Sri Chamkaur Sahib, Nature Park and Tourist Facilitation Centre at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Beautification of Naina Devi Road, Beautification of Virasat-E-Khalsa Road and Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial (First Phase) Inauguration (only building) at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Inauguration of Conservation and Renovation of Sarai Lashkari Khan near Khanna, inauguration of Saragarhi Museum at Ferozpur, Sarad Khana and Darbar Hall Facade Lighting at Patiala.
He further said that CM also Inaugurated Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Panorama on 17-10-2024 and the Department of Tourism, has launched permanent light and sound of 20 Minutes including seating capacity of approx. 80 peoples with the cost of Rs. 2.76 cr. at Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Summer Palace at Ram Bagh garden Amritsar during the Rangala Punjab Festival at Amritsar to remember the brave warriors of Punjab.
Sond said that during the year 2024, The Department has celebrated 21 Fair & Festivals in the State to promote its rich culture and heritage which includes, Basant Festival at Ferozepur, Bathinda Virasati Mela, Kila Raipur Rural Olympics, Kapurthala Heritage Festival, Nature Festival and Holla Mohalla & Nihang festival at Sri Anandpur Sahib etc.
Among all, Heritage festival Rangla Punjab was celebrated by the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs from 23rd to 29th February 2024 at Amritsar. The main objective of the Rangla Punjab Festival was to promote Punjab Tourism sector to position the state as the leading tourism state globally. A series of events of this stature spread over one week of this festival were celebrated with activities highlighting Drama & literature from Punjab, Grand shopping festival, Greenathon, Cultural Street performance, digital Punjab, music concerts, Seva Street and Art Walk etc.
The Minister informed that under PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive), projects worth Rs. 31.56 crore have been started for the development of Sri Chamkaur Sahib to promote it as a religious and pilgrimage destination. Ferozpur (Hussainiwala Border) under Culture & Heritage Category and Rupnagar (Anandpur Sahib) under Spiritual Tourism were selected by Ministry of Tourism under this scheme. The total funding for each destination is Rs. 25 Crore.
Restoration and conservation work of various monuments and heritage properties of Punjab Government such Mughal Sarai Doraha, Sarai Lashkari Khan Khanna, Sarad Khana, Patiala, Fort at Rampura Phul, Old Public Health Building at Patiala, Shahi Samadha, Entry Gate and Hawa Mahal at Shalimar Garden Kapurthala, Quila Sarai Sultanpur Lodhi are being carried out.
Punjab government is taking up the development works to facilitate the tourists visiting the state of Punjab. The facilities like construction of parking, public facilities, beautification works etc. have been created at different locations/ tourist spots in the state.
Sond said that during the year, Punjab Tourism participated in various trade exhibitions in locations like Mumbai, New Delhi, Patna, Ahmedabad, Amritsar and Jaipur for promotion of Tourism. The Department has also participated in FITUR Madrid from 24-28 Jan 2024 and ITB Berlin from 5-7 March 2024.
He said that Punjab’s Ranking in the Nidhi Plus Portal is 1st Rank ln the Month of November to upload most attractions/destinations. Total 263 attractions/destinations has been uploaded for Punjab. Similarly, Utsav portal updates Fairs & festivals of India in which 68 festivals has been uploaded for Punjab. The State Ranking in the Utsav Portal of Ministry of Tourism is 8th Rank in the Month of November 2024.
Sond further said that, last year a total of 750 villages from 31 states and Union Territories applied for the Best Tourism Village Award 2023 and out of the final 35 villages, Nawanpind Sardaran District Gurdaspur was awarded as India's Best Tourism Village-2023. This year Hansali farmstay of District fatehgarh sahib has been awarded for India's Best Tourism Village-2024 in Agri-Tourism category by the Government of India. Punjab Tourism & Cultural Affairs department was awarded in the North zone State Museum Yuga Yugeen conference at Bharat Museum Conclave held at Bharat Mandapam from 1- 3 Aug at New Delhi.
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Punjab revolutionizes water management: Over Rs.277-CR projects initiated to maximize underground pipeline based irrigation network
More than 40,000 hectares to benefit from state's ambitious underground pipeline network
Chandigarh, December 25:In a landmark year for Punjab's water conservation efforts, the Department of Soil and Water Conservation has achieved unprecedented milestones in sustainable water management and agricultural infrastructure development.
Divulging further, the Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that the state has implemented transformative projects that are reshaping Punjab's irrigation landscape while ensuring environmental sustainability.
"Our commitment to sustainable water management has translated into concrete actions that directly benefit our farming community," stated Sh. Goyal. "The year 2024 has been pivotal in our mission to optimize water usage while enhancing agricultural productivity."
Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal informed that to expand the underground pipeline-based irrigation network in the state, two new NABARD-funded projects worth Rs.277.57 crores have been initiated. These projects are set to benefit more than 40,000 hectares, marking a significant expansion of irrigation infrastructure.
The department has also made significant strides in promoting alternate surface water use through the initiation of 18 underground pipeline-based irrigation projects. These projects harness 67 MLD treated water from sewerage treatment plants, benefiting more than 2,233 hectares through an investment exceeding Rs.50 crores.
To ensure irrigation water reaches tail-end areas effectively, the department has laid 860 kilometers of underground pipeline, benefiting 10,841 hectares, informed the Cabinet Minister, adding that this initiative has been supported by providing 90% subsidy to farmers' groups and 50% subsidy to individual farmers.
In a major push for water conservation, approximately 1,874 hectares have been brought under drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, with subsidies up to 90%. The department has also launched Solar-Lift Irrigation projects in 27 villages across the state, utilizing village pond water for irrigation to check groundwater exploitation, he added.
Similarly, 42 Water Harvesting-cum-recharging structures and Check Dams have been constructed in the sub-mountainous Kandi area of the state, serving the dual purpose of conserving rainwater and preventing soil erosion and flash floods.
He said that the year 2024 also saw the launch of several first-time dedicated programs in the state, focusing on maximizing surface water use from canals and village ponds, check dam construction, soil and land protection, flood proofing and roof-top rainwater recharging, all designed to benefit the state's farming community.
"These achievements shows our holistic approach to water conservation and agricultural sustainability," said Minister Goyal, adding, "Our initiatives not only address immediate irrigation needs but also ensure long-term water security for Punjab's farming community."
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Punjab to Focus on Boosting Fisheries Sector through Multipurpose Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies: Alok Shekhar
Addressing Sahikarta Samelan Punjab, ACS, Cooperation Lauds Success of Dairy Based PACS
RCS Vimal Kumar Setia Highlights Initiatives Undertaken to Accelerate Cooperative Movement in Punjab
PACS Representative Farmers Share Success Stories and Offer Valuable Feedback
Chandigarh, December 25-As Punjab continues to explore innovative strategies for agricultural growth through diversification and rural development, Punjab Additional Chief Secretary, Cooperation, Mr. Alok Shekhar on Wednesday said that the state would focus on boosting the fisheries sector with the help of existing Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) and establishing new Multipurpose Agricultural Cooperative Societies (mPACS).
At the Sahikarta Samelan Punjab held at Punjab Bhawan here today, Mr. Alok Shekhar commended the achievements of dairy-based societies and emphasized the importance of revitalizing the state's extensive network of ponds to boost fisheries and maintain groundwater levels with the help of cooperative societies. This event was part of a nationwide initiative to strengthen Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) and establish new Multipurpose PACS (mPACS).
Mr. Shekhar said that Punjab boasts an impressive 13,000 villages, with approximately 18,000 ponds that hold immense potential for fisheries development, however, most of these ponds have dried up over time, necessitating urgent rejuvenation efforts. He said that reviving these ponds would not only support fisheries but also contribute to maintaining groundwater levels and ecosystem balance in rural areas.
To achieve this goal, Mr. Shekhar advocated for encouraging existing PACS and establishing new mPACS. He said that these societies can play a vital role in establishing fish farms, marketing produce, and ensuring remunerative prices for farmers.
Welcoming a valuable suggestion from a PACS representative farmer, the Additional Chief Secretary underscored the significance of conducting regular interactive sessions with PACS members and stakeholders. These sessions, he emphasized, would provide a vital platform for strengthening feedback mechanisms, addressing grievances, and fostering innovative ideas through collaborative brainstorming. To this end, he directed department officials to organize such events at both district and state levels, ensuring a robust and inclusive approach to PACS development.
Earlier, Registrar Cooperative Societies and Director, Information and Public Relations, Mr. Vimal Kumar Setia, extended a warm welcome to ACS, Cooperation, Mr. Alok Shekhar, Secretary, Cooperation, Ms. Ritu Aggarwal, and other esteemed guests. Mr. Setia highlighted the pioneering initiatives being undertaken to propel the cooperative movement in Punjab. He said that these initiatives are expected to have a transformative impact on the cooperative movement in Punjab, enabling cooperative societies to play a more effective role in promoting rural development, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and contributing to the state's economic growth. He emphasized the significance of the event, setting the tone for a productive and insightful gathering.
The event featured PACS representative farmers Mr. Ravinder Singh, Mr. Gurbaj Singh, and Mr. Gurdev Singh, who shared their inspiring success stories and offered valuable feedback, providing a unique perspective on the ground-level impact of cooperative initiatives.
Additional Registrar Cooperative Societies Sandeep Kumar delivered a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation, meticulously outlining the Punjab Cooperation Department's diverse operations, programs, and projects. This informative presentation provided a thorough understanding of the department's endeavours.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from MD Sugarfed Ms. Senu Duggal, expressing gratitude to all attendees and participants for their contributions to the gathering.
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Punjab remains ahead in providing clean drinking water & better sanitation facilities to rural population: Mundian
Punjab becomes fifth state in country to provide piped water supply to every rural household
All villages achieve ODF status under Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural)
Chandigarh, December 25-Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Water Supply and Sanitation Department has achieved major targets in providing clean drinking water and better sanitation facilities to the rural population in the year 2024.
Disclosing the achievements of the department during the year, Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Hardip Singh Mundian said that under ‘Har Ghar Jal’ scheme, Punjab has become the fifth state in the country to provide 100 percent piped water supply to rural households. To address the issues of water quality and water scarcity, 15 major canal water projects covering 1706 villages are underway of Rs. 2174 Cr. These projects will benefit about 25 lakh population and 4 lakh families.
Mr. Mundian further said that all the villages of the state have achieved ODF (open defecation free) status under Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural). A total of 5.64 lakh individual household latrines and 1340 community toilets have been constructed. More than 10435 villages of Punjab have become ODF Plus (desirable) and 1289 villages have achieved ODF Plus (model) status. Waste management facilities have been provided in 3366 villages for solid waste management and 9909 villages for grey-water management.
The Minister said that a network of 31 NABL accredited water testing labs is operational. Apart from this, two mobile water testing labs are currently testing water on the spot in villages. There is one NABL accredited operational laboratory in each district.
Mr. Mundian further said that with the support of PEDA, 20 biogas plants have been set up at the district level for managing cow dung in cow sheds. About 23 plastic waste management units have been set up at the block level for managing plastic waste in rural areas.
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SOON, PUNJAB TO START INDOOR SERVICES AT SIX VETERINARY POLYCLINICS
* Rs 1.85-CR allocated to ramp up services at veterinary facilities, says Gurmeet Singh Khudian
* Surgeries, post-operative care, lab tests, X-rays & ultrasound services to be offered in Polyclinics soon
•Animal Husbandry dept immunised all eligible livestock against Lumpy Skin disease and FMD
•1.75 lakh doses of frozen sexed semen procured with Rs.11.81-CR, says Animal Husbandry Minister
Chandigarh, December 25:To ensure the health and well-being of pets and animals in a comfortable setting in the state, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government will soon commence indoor services at six Veterinary Polyclinics in the state.
Disclosing this major development today, Punjab Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Minister Mr. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that funds worth over Rs 1.85 crore have been provided for ramping up services at veterinary facilities and equipments are also being provided to start the indoor services at Veterinary Polyclinics in Patiala, Amritsar, Bathinda, Sangrur, Gurdaspur and Ludhiana. These polyclinics will offer a range of indoor services for pets and animals including acute illness management, surgeries, post-operative care, lab tests, X-rays and ultrasound facilities soon.
Highlighting the achievements of the Animal Husbandry department, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that all the cattle-heads were administered with goat pox vaccine doses twice free of cost to prevent the lumpy skin disease. All the eligible animals have also been vaccinated with Foot and Mouth vaccine twice a year. During current year, 126.22 lakh doses of Foot and Mouth Disease vaccine were inoculated free of cost to the livestock in two rounds to protect them from FMD.
He further informed that 1,75,000 doses of frozen sexed semen (to produce only female calves) were procured at a cost of Rs. 11.81 crore to improve the economic condition of the livestock farmers of the state as well as to solve the menace of stray animals. 326 new Veterinary Officers, 538 Veterinary Inspectors and 59 Group C posts have been filled and recruitment of 405 more Veterinary Officers is under process to provide better animal healthcare services to the livestock farmers, he added.
The Animal Husbandry department’s Principal Secretary Mr. Rahul Bhandari said that dewormers have been purchased with Rs. 6.37 crore and distributed to all the livestock farmers in the state under the Mass Deworming Campaign. Apart from this, medicines worth Rs 3 crore have been provided to hospitals/dispensaries for the treatment of animals and medicines worth Rs 1 crore are also being purchased. The department has also organised 199 animal welfare and awareness camps in the state and 21st livestock census is being conducted in the state, he added. Dr G S Bedi, Director Animal Husbandry department, said that first time in the history of tricity Animal Husbandry Department was a host partner in the Pet Expo held in Parade Ground, Chandigarh on December 21 & 22, 2024
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Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan Pays Tribute to Former President Giani Zail Singh on His 30th Death Anniversary
Chandigarh, December 25-Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan today attended a solemn religious function organized at Ekta Sthal, Raj Ghat, New Delhi, to mark the 30th death anniversary of Giani Zail Singh, the former President of India. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the distinguished leader who left an indelible mark on the nation's history.
Giani Zail Singh, born on May 5, 1916, in the village of Sandhwan in Faridkot, passed away on December 25, 1994. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming the first Sikh President of India is a testament to his dedication and service to the nation.
Mr. Sandhwan, in his heartfelt tributes to the former President, praised the exemplary services rendered by Giani Zail Singh to the country as President from 1982 to 1987 and Union Home Minister from 1980 to 1982, and to Punjab as the Chief Minister from 1972 to 1977. He highlighted the former President's commitment to the welfare of the people and his significant contributions to the development of the state. "Giani Zail Singh's legacy is one of unwavering dedication and service. His tenure as the President of India and as the Chief Minister of Punjab was marked by his relentless efforts to uplift the underprivileged and promote social harmony," said Mr. Sandhwan.
Mr. Sandhwan reminisced about Giani Zail Singh's journey, from his early education at the Sikh Missionary School in Amritsar, where he earned the title of Giani, signifying a learned person, to his rise as a distinguished statesman. His deep understanding of Sikh teachings and his commitment to public service were evident throughout his illustrious career, said Mr. Sandhwan.
The event at Ekta Sthal was attended by dignitaries, political leaders, and admirers of Giani Zail Singh, who gathered to pay their respects and remember his contributions to the nation. The atmosphere was one of reverence and reflection, as attendees recalled the former President's enduring legacy.