Punjab Govt. Plans for Beautification of all village Ponds: RDP Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond

- Target set for pond cleaning before monsoon

Chandigarh, March 25:Punjab Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, while responding to a question in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, stated that Punjab Govt. has targeted to clean the ponds in all villages of Punjab before the monsoon season. He emphasized that all ponds will be emptied before the monsoon, and machinery will be deployed wherever necessary for the cleaning process.

Replying to a query raised by MLA Hardeep Singh Dimpy Dhillon, Minister Sond further mentioned that de-silting and re-silting of ponds will be carried out wherever required. Additionally, efforts will be made to clean and shape the pond edges, enhancing their aesthetics by planting grass along the banks.

He informed the House that Gidderbaha Assembly Constituency has 147 ponds in 52 Gram Panchayats. Out of these ponds, 35 ponds of 25 Gram Panchayats have been cleaned during the year 2024-25 through the MGNREGA scheme and other Sources. He added that the special campaign of the cleaning of the remaining 112 ponds of 27 gram panchayats is planned to be done during the year 2025-26 by dovetailing fund under MGNREGA scheme, 15th FC and other funds available with GP's/PS's/Zp's before monsoon season.

=================================

FIR Registered Against Fraudsters for Embezzling Funds; Case Handed Over to Vigilance: Tarunpreet Singh Sond

- Fraudulent withdrawl of Rs. 1.80 crore from grants allocated to Block Samiti Ferozepur

- Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development), Ferozepur, instructed to recover the funds from responsible officers/employees

Chandigarh, March 25:Punjab's Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, while respoding to a question in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, stated that an FIR has been registered at Police Station Ferozepur City after an departmental investigation revealed the fraudulent withdrawal of Rs. 1,80,87,591 from grants received under the 15th Finance Commission and allocated to Block Samiti Ferozepur. He further informed that the case has been handed over to the Vigilance Department.

While replying to a question raised by MLA Partap Singh Bajwa, Minister Sond stated that FIR No. 434, dated 13.12.2024, has been registered at Police Station Ferozepur City against Kirandeep Kaur BDPO Jaswinder Kaur then Chairperson of Panchayat Samiti Ferozepur, Manjinder Singh (Data Entry Operator, e-Panchayat), Rekha Devi (Data Entry Operator, e-Panchayat), Shubhdeepak Bajaj (Data Entry Operator, e-Panchayat), and Jaspreet Kaur (Zila Parishad Ferozepur, Data Entry Operator, e-Panchayat).

He also informed that the instructions have been given to the concerns to terminate the employees of e-Panchayat society, Manjinder Singh, Data Entry Operator e-Panchayat and Jaspreet Kaur, Zilla Parishad Ferozepur Data Entry Operator e-Panchayat and in addition to this, it has also been instructed to issue a notice to the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development), Ferozepur. He added that Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Ferozepur has also been instructed to recover the funds of Rs. 1,80,87,591 from the responsible officers/employees.

Sond said that In order to prevent such incidents in the future, the matter is under the consideration of the department with the IT team of Panchayati Raj Ministry, Government of India to make security of the website more strict and meanwhile the departmental officials/employees have been asked to be careful.

===========================

New 66 KV Sub Station at village Mirje Ke will be commissioned by 31st July: Harbhajan Singh E.T.O.

Chandigarh, March 25:The new 66 KV Sub Station at Mirje Ke in Firozpur district will be operational by July 31, 2025 . While replying to the question of MLA from Ferozepur Rural Rajneesh Kumar Dahiya in Punjab Legislative Assembly Punjab Electricity Minister Mr. Harbhajan Singh E.T.O. said that the construction work of 66KV sub-station Mirza ke is in progress. To run this grid sub-station, a total of 10.793 circuit kilometers of line from 220 KV to 66 KV Mirje ke is being laid. Construction and Civil construction work of 66KV Sub-Station Mirza ke is almost completed and line construction work is in progress. Order has been issued and the required tower material in this regard has been issued from the concerned PSPCL store due to which out of total 50 number tower stubs of the transmission line, work on 15 towers have been completed . The remaining work of transmission line will be completed by about 15th June after wheat harvesting and 66 KV The sub-station will be operational by 31 July 2025.

================================

Instructions issued from time to time to resolve problems of high voltage wires in residential areas: Harbhajan Singh ETO

Chandigarh, March 25- Punjab Power Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO, during the Budget Session at the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, informed that time-to-time instructions are being issued to resolved the problems pertaining to high voltage wires in residential areas.

MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, through a calling attention motion, drew the attention of the government towards the problems being faced by the residents due to 132 KV high voltage wires passing through the areas of Musalfabad, Tungbala, Indira Colony, Rishi Vihar, Nagina Avenue, Professor Colony, Akash Avenue, Suraj Avenue and Chand Avenue.

Along with this, MLA Mr. Labh Singh Ugoke also drew attention towards the loss of life and property occurring daily due to high voltage wires passing over the houses in the villages of the state.

Giving information in this regard, Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that 132 KV Power Colony Civil Line and 132 KV Power Colony - Verka high voltage transmission lines of Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited passes through Musalfabad, Tungbala, Indira Colony, Rishi Vihar, Nagina Avenue, Professor Colony, Akash Avenue, Suraj Avenue, Chand Avenue area, where people have illegally constructed buildings near or below these two 132 KV lines. Punjab State Power Corporation Limited/Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited does not lay power lines in residential areas, he said, while adding that however, construction under power lines is prohibited unless all safety rules are followed.

He said that despite this, some residents violate safety rules and carry out illegal constructions. In cases where potential hazards are identified, proper safety measures are being implemented, and notices are being issued to illegal builders who violate safety rules.

He said that Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited has issued public interest notice through newspapers from time to time to the people living in the areas, where illegal constructions have been constructed below these high voltage lines, appealing them to immediately remove the illegal structures built near and below these lines.

As per Regulation 65 of Central Electricity Authority (CEA) (Measures relating to Safety and Electricity Supply) 2023 and Regulation 11.1 to 11.5 of Supply Code-2014 approved by Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission, shifting or removal of high voltage lines is done at the request of consumers/applicants and the actual cost has to be deposited by the applicant to Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited. Hence, Punjab State Transmission Corporation Limited cannot shift these lines at its own cost.

Harbhajan Singh ETO informed that Punjab State Power Corporation Limited has issued instructions vide Commercial Circular No. 49/2019 dated 05-09-2019 to keep the charges for shifting of 11 kV and LT lines to the minimum and to encourage more and more applicants to shift the lines out of their premises. Supervision charges on labour @ 15%, cost of extras and incidental charges @ 4%, storage charges @ 1.5%, contingency charges @ 1%, audit and account charges @ 1%, T&P charges @ 1.5% and Chief Electrical Inspector's fee are not recovered from the applicant.

===========================

Punjab Government committed to start government bus service on every route of the state: Laljit Singh Bhullar

Assures MLA Neena Mittal to consider starting bus service for Rajpura constituency villages

Chandigarh, March 25-The Punjab Government is committed to starting government bus service on every route of the state so that women can benefit from the free bus service and other passengers can travel with convenience.

Responding to a question raised by MLA Neena Mittal during the session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday, Punjab Transport Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that the state government is committed to introducing government bus service on those routes where it is currently unavailable. He added that the department will also consider starting government bus service on specific routes based on public demand.

The Transport Minister assured to consider starting bus services for various villages in the Rajpura constituency and stated that the state government is already operating government bus services on routes from Rajpura to Manakpur via Jansuya, Jansui, Mirzapur, and Area Manakpur, as well as from Chandigarh to Manakpur via Rajpura, Jansuya, Jansui, Mirzapur, Area Manakpur, Abravan etc.

S. Bhullar said that at present, PRTC is running 290 buses of different categories (ordinary, HVAC and integral coach) under the kilometer scheme. He further stated that, with the aim of providing government bus services to the people of the state, orders have already been issued to departmental officers to add new buses to the fleets of Punjab Roadways and PRTC.

=========================================

PUNJAB POLICE’S EMERGENCY RESPONSE VEHICLES UPGRADED WITH SMARTPHONES TO SLASH RESPONSE TIME

— SPL DGP ARPIT SHUKLA DISTRIBUTES 165 SMARTPHONES TO ERVs TO ENSURE UNINTERRUPTED CONNECTIVITY

— DIAL 112 HELPLINE PROCESSED OVER 2.34-CR CALLS, REGISTERED 20.05L CASES SO FAR

— DUAL-DEVICE SYSTEM IN ERVs TO HELP IN REDUCING RESPONSE TIME: SPL DGP ARPIT SHUKLA

CHANDIGARH, March 25: In a significant move to enhance public safety and improve the emergency response time, Special Director General of Police (Special DGP) Law and Order Arpit Shukla on Tuesday, distributed 165 new smartphones to Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) under the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112).

The move, initiated on the directions of DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav, aimed at further streamlining the Dial 112 helpline— Public Safety Answering Point, which has already processed over 2.34 crore calls and registered nearly 20.05 lakh cases till now.

The smartphones equipped with 5G technology and dual SIM capabilities, will serve as a backup communication tool alongside the existing Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) installed in ERVs. The state has 258 ERVs including 241 four-wheelers and 17 two-wheelers, with 165 equipped with advanced MDTs and the newly distributed smartphones.

Special DGP Arpit Shukla said that each ERV is currently fitted with MDT, Now in addition to it new smartphones with dual-sims will ensure uninterrupted connectivity, even if one network fails. This dual-device system is expected to significantly reduce response time of ERVs, he added. Currently, the ERV takes at around 10 to 25 minutes to reach the spot.

He highlighted the transformative impact of the ERSS-112 system, which has already expanded communication channels to chatbots, social media, and IoT devices, with WhatsApp integration soon to follow.

“The integration of crucial helplines including 1098, 101, 108, and 181 into a unified system, along with the upcoming heat map feature, will revolutionise how we identify and respond to crime hotspots,” said the Special DGP, while adding that the heat map will enable to visualise crime hotspots across the state by identifying areas with high concentrations of incidents including snatching, robbery, and other major crimes, enabling more targeted policing.

Terming Dial 112 PSAP as the nerve centre of Punjab’s emergency response system, he said that the helpline handles approximately 15,000 calls daily, registering around 1,500 cases. Punjab Police is also proposing the procurement of additional ERVs to expand the fleet of vehicles under ERSS to improve coverage across the state, and to significant reduce the response time of vehicles providing immediate help to the citizen, he added.

Meanwhile, ERVs equipped with dash cameras with 1080p resolution and 256 GB memory cards, portable amplifiers, fire extinguishers, and GPS systems. These upgrades, coupled with Hands-on training as working of MDTs of 2,100 police personnel, reflect the department’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for public safety.

================================================

Punjab legislative assembly unanimously passes resolution to protect state's water and environment

Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal lists Mann Government's efforts to conserve groundwater

Lamented union government always maintained biased approach

"Expenditure of over Rs.4557CR-more than double the previous dispensation, spending on canal water conservation and farm delivery"

Dam water usage increased from 68% to 84%

Restored 17072 water courses spanning 6300 kms, which were neglected for 30-40 years

Restored 79 canals extending 545 kms, providing irrigation facility to 41135 acres

Chandigarh, March 25:The Punjab Legislative Assembly, on Tuesday, unanimously passed resolution to protect the declining water levels and environment of the state.

Punjab Water Resources Minister Sh. Brinder Kumar Goyal, while speaking on a resolution introduced by MLA Nabha S. Gurdev Singh Dev Maan, highlighted the initiative and efforts of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government to conserve groundwater and expressed disappointment over the union government's biased approach.

During his address in the assembly, Sh. Goyal said that during the previous Congress government's tenure from 2019 to 2022, around Rs.2046-CR were spent on canal infrastructure. In contrast, our government has invested over Rs.4557-CR from 2022 to 2025 on canal water conservation, infrastructure restoration and ensuring water reaches agricultural land, which is more than 2.25 times the previous expenditure.

He said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann had decided immediately upon forming the government to ensure water reaches agricultural land, which we have successfully accomplished.

Previously, dam water was utilized at only 68%, but now through Mann government efforts, it has increased to 84%, said the Cabinet Minister, adding that the government has restored 17072 water courses spanning 6300 Kms, which had been dilapidated and non-functional for 30-40 years.

The government has restored 79 canals extending 545 kms, providing irrigation to 41135 acres. In the Fazilka district bordering Pakistan, 12 canals spanning 213 Kms under the Luther Canal System, which had been non-operational for 15 years, have been restored.

The cabinet minister further said that new canals are being constructed in Malerkotla, Pathankot, Malwa, Amritsar and other regions. In Tarn Taran district, 23 canals that were non-functional for 30-40 years have been restored.

To provide water to new areas in Malerkotla district, the government has completed expansion work on Rohira, Kanganwal and Dehlon canals. New canal construction processes have been initiated in Malerkotla, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib districts, he added.

"For the first time since independence, the capacity of major canals such as Sirhind Canal and Patiala Feeder has been increased. After addressing design issues, resolving farmers' demands and gaining the union government's confidence, the long-pending Sirhind Feeder Canal relining project has been completed", said Sh Goyal.

He said that 129 canal water recharge sites have been completed, with 60 more recharge schemes under development. 127 new ponds are being excavated and connected to canals for groundwater recharge. 66 existing ponds are being linked with canals to recharge groundwater.

The cabinet minister stated that compared to the previous five years, the government is now capable of utilizing 12% more additional water during the Kharif season. In Ropar and Hoshiarpur districts, 28 new lift schemes have been identified to provide water to Punjab's neglected border areas, with 15 schemes already operational.

Taking union government iron-handedly, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that while the union government consistently produces reports about declining water levels in Punjab, but it has never fulfilled its responsibility to help conserve the state's water resources.

"Punjab requires Rs.17000-CR for water-courses work. If all water-courses are constructed and underground pipes are laid, the state could save 20% of its water", said the Cabinet Minister, adding that while many canals have been restored, but they are not fully capable of carrying water. Significant financial investment is needed for infrastructure and recharge systems.

Sh. Goyal said that for a state that has lost its water for the nation, the union government is not taking any concrete steps to address its water challenges. He urged for union government support to help Punjab properly manage its water resources and preserve water for future generations. The minister also urged legislators to begin water conservation efforts at an individual level.

On this important resolution, Cabinet Ministers Mr. Aman Arora, Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak and S. Laljit Singh Bhullar, MLAs Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Narinder Kaur Bharaj, Dinesh Chadha, Manpreet Singh Ayali, Manwinder Singh Giaspura, Kulwant Singh Pandori, Rana Inder Pratap Singh, Principal Budh Ram, Kuljit Singh Randhawa, Labh Singh Uggoko, Inderjit Kaur Mann, Jamil-ur-Rehman, Gurlal Singh Ghanaur, Prof. Jaswant Singh Gajjanmajra, Hardev Singh Laddi, Fauja Singh Sarari, Rana Gurjit Singh, Sandeep Jakhar, Avtar Henry and Barindermeet Singh Pahra also expressed their views.

===========================================

Punjab Government Approves 252 New Posts to Strengthen Women and Child Helpline Services: Dr. Baljit Kaur

Says Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government Committed to Ensuring Safety of Women and Children

Chandigarh, March 25:Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is continuously striving to ensure the safety of women and children in the state. Taking a significant step in this direction, the state government has approved the creation of 252 new posts to strengthen and efficiently operate the helpline services dedicated to women and children. This announcement was made by Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.

Providing further details, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the department has set up 181 Women Helpline and 1098 Child Helpline to provide immediate assistance. To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of these helplines, a dedicated 24x7 control room has been established in Sector-35, Chandigarh. This control room is connected with district-level authorities and the 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) to ensure swift and time-bound assistance in emergency situations.

Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that this initiative marks a major step towards strengthening the response system for women and children in distress. The newly sanctioned posts will help improve coordination, ensure quicker response times, and enhance accessibility, guaranteeing the seamless operation of helpline services across the state.

Reaffirming the government's commitment, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government is consistently taking concrete measures to provide a safe environment for women and children. In line with this objective, the Hifazat Project was recently launched to bolster security measures for women and children. She added that the project is functioning through inter-departmental coordination, and all necessary steps are being taken to make it effective and impactful.

The Minister further asserted that there will be no compromise on the safety of women and children. She assured that all departments associated with the Hifazat Project will be equipped with necessary resources to prevent any gaps in security measures.

Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Punjab Government is committed to creating a safe, fear-free, and self-reliant environment for women and children. She assured that every possible effort will be made to strengthen their safety, security, and overall well-being.

===============================

Punjab Government Approves 252 New Posts to Strengthen Women and Child Helpline Services: Dr. Baljit Kaur

Says Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government Committed to Ensuring Safety of Women and Children

Chandigarh, March 25: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is continuously striving to ensure the safety of women and children in the state. Taking a significant step in this direction, the state government has approved the creation of 252 new posts to strengthen and efficiently operate the helpline services dedicated to women and children. This announcement was made by Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur.

Providing further details, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the department has set up 181 Women Helpline and 1098 Child Helpline to provide immediate assistance. To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of these helplines, a dedicated 24x7 control room has been established in Sector-35, Chandigarh. This control room is connected with district-level authorities and the 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) to ensure swift and time-bound assistance in emergency situations.

Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that this initiative marks a major step towards strengthening the response system for women and children in distress. The newly sanctioned posts will help improve coordination, ensure quicker response times, and enhance accessibility, guaranteeing the seamless operation of helpline services across the state.

Reaffirming the government's commitment, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government is consistently taking concrete measures to provide a safe environment for women and children. In line with this objective, the Hifazat Project was recently launched to bolster security measures for women and children. She added that the project is functioning through inter-departmental coordination, and all necessary steps are being taken to make it effective and impactful.

The Minister further asserted that there will be no compromise on the safety of women and children. She assured that all departments associated with the Hifazat Project will be equipped with necessary resources to prevent any gaps in security measures.

Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Punjab Government is committed to creating a safe, fear-free, and self-reliant environment for women and children. She assured that every possible effort will be made to strengthen their safety, security, and overall well-being.

=========================================

PUNJAB MULLS TO INCENTIVISE FARMERS FOR SURPLUS SOLAR ENERGY PRODUCTION, SAYS AMAN ARORA

•Over 5K Agri-Solar pumps already allocated to farmers

•34MW capacity solar PV panels installed on Govt buildings; generating over 4.9 crore units of electricity annually

•New & Renewable Energy Minister replies during question hour in State Assembly

Chandigarh, March 25:In a groundbreaking initiative to make the state leader in green energy production, the Punjab Government is mulling to incentivise farmers for producing surplus solar energy through solar pumps installed for agriculture use, announced Mr. Aman Arora, Minister of New and Renewable Energy Sources, Punjab.

He was replying to a question raised by Mr. Naresh Puri, MLA from Sujanpur Assembly constituency during the question hour in Punjab Vidhan Sabha, on Tuesday.

Mr. Aman Arora said that this forward-thinking move would empower the state farmers, besides bolstering the renewable energy sector and contribute to a sustainable future of the state. Under this proposed policy, the farmers would be compensated for excess solar energy generated beyond their own consumption needs. This surplus energy will be fed into the grid, contributing to the state's energy supply and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels for a greener and more sustainable Punjab.

"By empowering farmers to become active participants in the renewable energy sector, we are not only promoting clean energy but also creating new economic opportunities for our farmers," Mr. Aman Arora said while adding that Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) will install 20,000 solar pumps for agriculture purposes and out of which, over 5,000 solar pumps have already been allocated to the farmers in the state.

Mr. Aman Arora also shared that 4,474 government buildings have been equipped with rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) panels with a capacity of 34 MW solar. These rooftop solar panels are generating over 4.9 crore units of electricity annually. Further, PEDA has planned 100 MW capacity solar power plants to be set up on the Government buildings in the next two financial years.

He further highlighted that the grid connected rooftop solar PV power plants generate power at the consumer point, which helps reduce network losses in distribution. The electricity generated also aids in bridging the demand and supply gap, enabling the PSPCL to meet its renewable purchase obligation targets as specified by the Electricity Regulatory Commissions. The PV grid connected systems generate power during the daytime and feed excess power back into the grid, he added.

=======================================

Punjab Police & IPF sign MoU to make civil policing more facilitative & citizen-friendly: ADGP A.S. Rai

• IPF will focus on 30 police stations spread over four districts including Rupnagar

• IPF Team of Researchers will conduct public consultation meetings in 9 Police Stations of distt. Rupnagar

Chandigarh/ Rupnagar, 25 March:The project 'Internal Police Reforms' undertaken by the Indian Police Foundation in four states of the country namely Tamil Nadu, Telengana, Rajasthan and Punjab, was formally launched with the signing of an MoU between the IPF and the Punjab Police at Punjab Police Headquarters on Tuesday in the presence of DGP Punjab Mr. Gaurav Yadav, IPS, Dr. Ish Kumar IPS (Retd.), Vice-President IPF and Project Director, Mr. A.S. Rai, IPS, ADGP/Traffic and Road Safety –cum- State Nodal Officer and Mr. G.S. Sandhu, IPS (Retd.) State Supervisor of the project on IPF.

While addressing the press conference in auditorium of police line, ADGP/Traffic and Road Saftey –cum- State Nodal Officer Mr. A.S. Rai said that the signing of the MoU will pave the way for mutual co-operation between the Punjab Police and the Indian Police Foundation for bringing about citizen centric changes in the day to day working of the Police at the cutting edge level by identifying the problems of the ordinary citizens during their interface with the local police and by putting in place the requisite remedial measures so as to make civil policing more facilitative and citizen-friendly.

Mr. Rai said that initially, the IPF will focus on 30 police stations spread over four districts i.e. SAS Nagar, Rupnagar, Fatehgarh Sahib and Khanna. It includes 09 Police Stations of district Rupnagar namely PS City Rupnagar, Sadar Rupnagar, Singh Bhyagwantpur, City Morinda, Sadar Morinda, Chamkaur Sahib, Anandpur Sahib, Nurpurbedi and Nangal. Subsequently, the operational ambit of the project will be further extended to other districts of the state in a phased manner.

ADGP further said that as a part of this initiative the initially, IPF Team of Researchers will conduct public consultation meetings across Police Stations of district Rupnagar with all stakeholders including complainants, victims, witnesses, convicts, under trials, police officials at cutting edge level, traffic violators etc. from 25th March 2025 to 2nd April 2025.

On this occasion, Dr. Ish Kumar IPS (Retd.) said that, IPF Team of Researchers will conduct public consultation meetings different categories of stake-holders, identify core pain-points, prepare a change manual, provide training to the police station staff based on the change manual, assess the impact of the re-calibrated style of working of police on common citizens and then present a set of well-founded recommendations for being adopted in the day to day working the police on enduring basis through standing /circular orders, SoPs etc. as per requirement.

He said that the Punjab Police on its part will extend all the requisite support in terms of man-power, logistics, data access liaison and coordination etc. so as to realize the full potential of this undertaking initiated with the objective of spearheading reforms based on methodical research.

Dr. Ish Kumar, IPS (Retd.), the Project Director assured the DGP that the empirical research based outcomes of the project will be highly beneficial for the people of the state and will go a long way in boosting the image of the Punjab Police.

Today the team of IPF headed by Dr. Ish Kumar IPS (Retd.), Vice president IPF and Mr. A.S. Rai IPS, ADGP Traffic cum- State coordinator also conducted a meeting with all the officers including SHOs of district Rupnagar which was attended by SSP Rupnagar G.S. Khurana IPS and other senior officer of police department.

=====================================

Dr. Ravjot Singh directs immediate removal of garbage and Machinery from Ranjit Avenue site

Says, site must be cleaned twice daily

Chandigarh, March 25:Punjab Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh, on Tuesday, directed immediate removal of garbage and machinery from a temporary dump site located in the residential area of Ranjit Avenue in Amritsar. He said that the site must be cleaned twice daily.

During the Punjab Legislative Assembly session, while responding to a calling attention Notice raised by MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, the Cabinet Minister said that Ranjit Avenue is a important area in Amritsar. He said that land was originally allocated to the firm Amritsar M.S.W. (Averda) for parking vehicles collecting solid waste.

The firm subsequently began using the site as a temporary secondary garbage collection point, transforming it into an impromptu waste transfer station with stationary machinery. Dr. Ravjot Singh stated that the company has been instructed to immediately remove all garbage and idle machinery from the site.

The Amritsar Municipal Corporation has already secured the area by installing fencing, said the Cabinet Minister, adding that the Municipal Commissioner has been directed to ensure the site is cleaned thoroughly twice a day.

The Cabinet Minister further disclosed that Averda, the current agency, intimated the Amritsar Municipal Corporation in February 2025 about their intention to exit the existing contract. Consequently, the municipal body will issue a new tender to onboard a fresh agency for door-to-door waste collection, transportation, processing and secure disposal.

Once this process is completed, the waste transfer station issue at Ranjit Avenue will be permanently resolved, he added.

===================================

Vigilance Bureau apprehends Audit Inspector for demanding Rs. 20000 bribe

Chandigarh March 25, 2025 - The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has arrested Davinder Bansal, Audit Inspector, posted in the office of Regional Deputy Director, Local Fund Audit, Patiala for demanding a bribe of Rs. 20000. In this case accused Prithvi Singh, Panchayat Secretary, posted at BDPO Office, block Moonak in Sangrur district had already been arrested red handed while he was accepting a bribe of Rs. 20000 in the name of said Audit Inspector.

Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of state VB said the aforementioned Davinder Bansal has been arrested following a complaint lodged by a resident of village Maha Singh Wala in Moonak. He further added that the complainant had approached the VB alleging that the said Panchayat Secretary had demanded a bribe of Rs 20000 for auditing of the development works carried out by the village panchayat of Maha Singh Wala during the previous tenure. The Panchayats Secretary told the complainant that the bribe money had to be shared with aforementioned accused Davinder Bansal, Audit Inspector.

The spokesperson informed that the aforementioned accused accused Panchayat Secretary had already been arrested while he was accepting the bribe money from the complainant in the presence of two official witnesses. The other co-accused Davinder Bansal, Audit Inspector, was evading his arrest. The accused would be produced in the competent court tomorrow and future investigations into this case was under progress, he said.

=====================================

Vigilance Bureau arrests ASI for accepting Rs 8000 bribe

Deputy Speaker Rouri Lays Estimates Committee Report for Approval of Supplementary Demands

Chandigarh, March 25-During the ongoing session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Estimates Committee Jai Krishan Singh Rouri, presented the committee’s report, recommending the approval of Supplementary Demands for various government departments.

Addressing the House, Deputy Speaker Rouri emphasized the necessity of these additional financial allocations beyond the originally sanctioned budget. He stated that while the Assembly approves funds for various departments, unforeseen requirements often arise, making it essential to provide supplementary provisions for public welfare programs, judicial directives and new government policies. He added that these additional allocations are crucial to ensuring the uninterrupted execution of key projects and initiatives.

The Estimates Committee, after a detailed review, has recommended the approval of these Supplementary Demands to facilitate the smooth functioning of government schemes. The additional funds will be directed toward several critical sectors. In the field of agriculture and farmer welfare, subsidies will be provided for machinery under the Crop Residue Management Scheme and the School Scheme, along with financial assistance for sugarcane farmers. Infrastructure development will also receive a significant boost, with funds allocated for the repair and modernization of 127 rural roads across 21 districts, renovation of warehouses and the strengthening of infrastructure in Verka dairies.

Health and public welfare initiatives will benefit from the procurement of essential medicines for ESI hospitals and dispensaries. Additionally, security in the state will be enhanced through upgrades in the State Police Department, ensuring better law enforcement and public safety. Environmental concerns have also been addressed, with allocations for wastewater treatment improvements in Ludhiana’s dyeing industry.

Urban development projects under the Smart City initiatives and AMRUT Mission will be supported through these funds, while the irrigation and water resources sector will benefit from the renovation and repair of canals. The establishment of sugar complexes has also been included in the supplementary allocations to strengthen the industrial and agricultural sectors.

--------

‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’ CONTINUES ON DAY 25 AS PUNJAB POLICE ARRESTS 69 DRUG SMUGGLERS AFTER 452 RAIDS

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

— DAY LONG OPERATION LEADS TO REGISTRATION OF 47 FIRs, RECOVERY OF 1.2KG HEROIN, 375KG POPPY HUSK

— POLICE TEAMS IN SIX DISTRICTS ALSO CHECK 212 PHARMACEUTICAL SHOPS

— OVER 200 POLICE TEAMS LED BY 93 SP/DSP RANK OFFICERS CHECKED 525 SUSPICIOUS PERSONS: SPL DGP ARPIT SHUKLA

CHANDIGARH, March 25:Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 25th day, Punjab Police on Tuesday conducted raids at 452 locations leading to the arrest of 69 drug smugglers after registration of 47 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 3937 in just 25 days.

Police teams have also recovered 1.2 kg heroin, 300 grams opium, 2200 intoxicant tablets/pills/injections, 375 kg poppy husk and Rs 13000 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

The operation was conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav simultaneously in all 28 Police districts of the state.

Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. The Punjab government has also constituted a 5-member Cabinet Sub Committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema to monitor the war against drugs.

Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla informed that over 200 Police teams, comprising over 1300 police personnel, under the supervision of 93 gazetted officers have conducted raids across the state and checked as many as 525 suspicious persons during the day long operation

He said that Punjab Police has devised a comprehensive strategy and such operations will be continued till the scourge of drugs eradicated from the state.

The Special DGP said that with 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 six persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment, while, organised 104 awareness events across the state as part of Prevention.

Meanwhile, Police teams have also conducted checking at as many as 212 pharmaceutical shops in six districts including Commissionerate Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, SBS Nagar, Jalandhar Rural, Kapurthala and Rupnagar to ensure that they are not selling intoxicant tablets or any other habit-forming drugs, and are adhering to the prescribed norms and regulations regarding the sale of medicines.

=====================================

Punjab Finance Minister Slams Previous Congress Government for Destroying Health Infrastructure, PRIs and ULBs Citing CAG Report

Tables in Punjab Assembly CAG Report on Performance Audit of Public Health Infrastructure and Management of Health Services During Congress Tenure of 2017-22

Also Tables Annual Technical Inspection Report on Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies from April 2019 to March 2022

Healthcare in Punjab (2016-17 to 2021-22): A Staggering 50.69% Vacancy Rate: Sanctioned Health Posts Remain Unfilled

Inadequate Health Infrastructure (2016-17 to 2021-22): Insufficient Beds, Medicines, and Equipment Plague Public Health Facilities

Inadequate Spending on Health Sector (2016-17 to 2021-22): State Government's spending on health services found to be below target

Panchayati Raj Institutions (April 2019-22): Devolution of Powers and Functions- Only 13 out of 29 Functions Envisioned by the 73rd Amendment Act Devolved

Urban Local Bodies (April 2019-22): Staff Shortages and Pending User Charges- Issues Persist in Effective Governance and Service Delivery

Chandigarh, March 25-Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the previous Congress-led state government for severely destroying the health infrastructure, and Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies of the state, citing the Comptroller and Auditor General of India's (CAG) report on the management of public health infrastructure and health services for the period of Punjab Vidhan Sabha 2016-17 to 2021-22 and the annual technical inspection report on Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies from April 2019 to March 2022. He tabled these reports in the Punjab Assemble today.

Talking to reporters here, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the Congress party is a party of the rich, hence it has never paid any attention to providing necessary public health services to the common people of the state. He said that similarly, the Congress party has always weakened the basic units of democracy, Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies. He said that by not making the necessary recruitments in these institutions from 2017 to 2022, the Congress party not only affected the services of these institutions but also deprived thousands of youth of employment.

Key findings of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India's report on the Performance Audit of Public Health Infrastructure and Management of Health Services for the period 2016-17 to 2021-22, include a staggering 50.69% vacancy rate in sanctioned health posts, with Director Medical Education and Research facing a 59.19% shortage. The report also highlights inadequate availability of health institutions, insufficient beds, and a lack of essential medicines and equipment. Institutional births in public health facilities remained low, while private healthcare facilities flourished.

Furthermore, the report notes that many health services were unavailable due to staff and equipment shortages, and that infrastructure could not be fully utilized. The skewed distribution of manpower led to uneven patient loads per doctor, and population-to-doctor ratios varied significantly across districts.

The State Government's spending on health services was found to be below the target. Out of the allotted budget by the State Government, funds ranging from 6.5 per cent to 20.74 per cent were not utilised. The State Government could spend only 3.11 per cent of its total expenditure and 0.68 per cent of GSDP on health services during 2021-22, which was way below 8 per cent of the budget and 2.50 per cent of GSDP targeted under National Health Policy (NHP) 2017. Additionally, the report highlights delays in submitting State Programme Implementation Plans and significant amounts of unutilized government funds.

The Annual Technical Inspection Report on Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies from April 2019 to March 2022, comprising two parts and four chapters, provides an in-depth analysis of the PRIs and ULBs in Punjab. Chapters I and II focus on Panchayati Raj Institutions, while Chapters III and IV deal with Urban Local Bodies.

In the rural sector, the report notes that only 13 out of 29 functions envisioned by the 73rd Amendment Act have been devolved to Panchayati Raj Institutions. Delays in transferring Central Finance Commission grants resulted in avoidable interest payments by the state government. Moreover, there was significant underutilization of funds received under various schemes, ranging from 5% to 94%. Staff shortages in PRIs increased from 29% in 2019-20 to 41% in 2021-22.

The report also highlights issues in urban local bodies, including a staff shortage ranging from 34% to 44%. Delays in transferring grants resulted in avoidable interest payments, and user charges worth Rs 510.56 crore remained pending for recovery. Additionally, 137 urban local bodies failed to contribute Rs 10.77 crore towards the Punjab State Cancer and Drug Addiction Treatment Infrastructure Fund.

======================================

Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha extends warm welcome to the Chief Minister Haryana and Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha

Chandigarh, 25 March 2025:S.Kultar Singh Sandhwan Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha today extended a warm welcome to Nayab Singh Saini, Chief Minister Haryana and Harvinder Kalyan, Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha on their visit to Punjab Vidhan Sabha during the Budget Session.

S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan Speaker Punjab Vidhan Sabha presented a glass framed replica of Sri Harmandir Sahib and a Lohi to the Chief Minister Haryana. He also presented a glass framed replica of Sri Harmandir Sahib and a Lohi to the Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha. Chief Minister Haryana and Speaker Haryana Vidhan Sabha felt highly delighted with this warm welcome extended to them.

On this welcome occasion, Harpal Singh Cheema, Cabinet Minister Punjab, Gurmeet Singh Khuddian Cabinet Minister Punjab, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal Cabinet Minister Punjab, Partap Singh Bajwa Leader of Opposition Punjab , Ashwani Sharma of BJP, Kulwant Singh Pandori M.L.A Punjab, Jaswant Singh Gajjan Majra MLA Punjab were also present.

===================================

Punjab State Food Commission emphasizes effective implementation of NFSA at grassroots level

Further improvement in Anganwadi infrastructure & Mid Day Meals also comes under prime focus

Chairman Bal Mukand Sharma solicits support of NRIs, NGOs

Chandigarh, March 25:Today, the Punjab State Food Commission held an important meeting through video conference with all the ADC(D) cum DGRO of the districts. The focus of the meeting was to emphasize the effective implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) at the grassroots level.

Special attention was also given to food nutrition, with a particular focus on improving the infrastructure of Anganwadi centers and mid-day meals, especially through the support of NRIs, NGOs, and CSR initiatives.

The meeting was chaired by Shri Bal Mukand Sharma, Chairman of the Punjab State Food Commission. Commission members Vijay Dutt, Preeti Chawla, and Chetan Prakash Dhaliwal were also present during the meeting.

During the meeting, feedback gathered from field officers was shared, highlighting the need for improvements in Anganwadi infrastructure and the provision of nutritious meals. The officials were encouraged to engage with NRIs, NGOs, and CSR partners to bolster these efforts and ensure that the benefits of the National Food Security Act reach every citizen effectively.

The primary objective of this meeting was to ensure that there are no shortcomings in the implementation of the scheme and to guarantee that the needy receive their due rights. Expectations were also set for officials to develop solid action plans to bring about tangible changes on the ground.

Chairman Shri Bal Mukand Sharma emphasized that only through collective efforts, including the support of NRIs, NGOs, and corporate bodies, can the scheme be made effective, ensuring that the most marginalized sections of society benefit fully.

Additionally, other members Vijay Dutt, Preeti Chawla, and Chetan Prakash Dhaliwal also shared their views and highlighted the importance of effective ground-level implementation of NFSA, urging all officials to work together.

Director General of School Education, Mr. Vinay Biblani, made valuable suggestions during the meeting, contributing to the improvement of the infrastructure and services provided under the NFSA, especially in the education and nutrition sectors.

This meeting signals a commitment to take further concrete steps in ensuring food security in the future, ensuring that every citizen in Punjab receives food supplies according to their needs.

========================================

’YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’: DGP PUNJAB DIRECTS CPs/SSPs TO MAP DRUG SUPPLIERS IN THEIR DISTRICTS, SETS 7-DAYS DEADLINE

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

— CPs/SSPs DIRECTED TO PERSONALLY OVERSEE MAPPING EXERCISE TO CATALOGUE SUPPLIERS FUNNELLING DRUGS IN THEIR AREAS

— LAXITY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED AT ANY COST: DGP PUNJAB WARNS DISTRICT POLICE CHIEFS

— TARGETED OPERATIONS WILL BE LAUNCHED TO ARREST MAIN DRUG SUPPLIERS, SAYS DGP GAURAV YADAV

CHANDIGARH, March 25:Shifting its strategy from broad enforcement to precision strikes against big fish as part of the ongoing war against drugs ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav on Tuesday, directed all the Commissioners of Police (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to identify and catalogue the main drug suppliers/peddlers in their respective districts within seven days. The directive, issued through a stern letter, aims to systematically dismantle supply chains fuelling the state’s narcotics trade.

Notably, the anti-drugs campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ launched by the Punjab Government on March 1, 2025, has resulted in arrest of 3957 drug smugglers after registration of 2248 first information reports (FIRs) across the state and led to recovery of large amount of contrabands, including 137.7 kg heroin from the possession of drug smugglers.

“Feedback from the citizens and other inputs indicate that the street level availability of heroin and other drugs has considerably reduced. However, there is a need to carry on the drug law enforcement in a meticulous and professional manner by ensuring effective action against the drug peddlers— persons selling drugs in villages and urban mohallas, and suppliers— providing drugs to peddlers,” the DGP stated in his letter.

DGP Gaurav Yadav has mandated all the CPs and SSPs to personally oversee the mapping exercise to prepare details of the suppliers funnelling drugs in their respective areas and catalogue them on the basis of interrogation reports, public tips, intelligence inputs, data from the Safe Punjab Helpline and backward and forward linkages unveiled in criminal investigations under the NDPS Act.

"This cataloguing must be evidence-based and comprehensive," the DGP ordered CPs/SSPs, while giving them warning that vague claims of ignorance about drug sources would be deemed unprofessional. “In the absence of effective mapping, it shall be presumed that you (CPs/SSPs) are not taking personal interest,” he stated.

While directing CPs/SSPs to submit reports in timely manner, DGP Gaurav Yadav has made it clear that laxity will not be tolerated at any cost. Based on the reports, targeted operations will be launched to arrest main drug suppliers/peddlers to choke drug smuggling networks, he added.