In a series of decisions, the Punjab Cabinet on Wednesday announced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at benefiting the citizens of the state. The cabinet meeting saw the approval of initiatives ranging from restoring benefits to ration cardholders to transparent transfer policies for teachers and numerous other reforms spanning various sectors.
Restoration of Benefits to Ration Card Holders
The Cabinet’s foremost decision involved the restoration of benefits to 10.77 lakh ration cardholders across the state. The beneficiaries, who were initially deprived due to the deletion of around three lakh cards during the verification process, will now be able to access benefits provided under the Public Distribution System (PDS). This includes the much-appreciated door-to-door delivery of ration schemes recently initiated by the state government. Chief Minister's Office spokesperson highlighted that the decision was made in the larger public interest, ensuring that all eligible beneficiaries could derive the benefits of PDS and innovative ration delivery schemes initiated by the government.
Transparent Transfer Policy for Teachers
Recognizing the challenges faced by teachers in securing transfers, the Cabinet gave its nod to a new and transparent transfer policy — aimed at streamlining the transfer process, allowing teachers, especially those with family members facing chronic diseases, to apply for transfers throughout the year. This initiative is designed to alleviate the administrative burden on educators, enabling them to focus more zealously on their teaching responsibilities. The new policy is expected to bring about greater efficiency in the education sector, ensuring that educators can contribute wholeheartedly to their teaching roles without unnecessary disruptions caused by transfer-related bureaucratic processes.
Extension of CM Di Yogshala Campaign
Building on the success of the CM Di Yogshala campaign launched in nine cities during phase I, the Cabinet approved the extension of this health-oriented initiative to 15 more districts — Barnala, Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Kapurthala, Mansa, Moga, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Pathankot, Rupnagar, SBS Nagar, Tarn Taran, and Malerkotla. The campaign focuses on promoting yoga and a healthy lifestyle. With its extension, the government plans to cover the entire state, necessitating the recruitment of additional trainers and staff to meet the growing demand for this pro-people initiative.
Financial Assistance to Ex-Servicemen Enhanced
In a move honouring the contribution of ex-servicemen and their widows, the Cabinet approved an enhancement in financial assistance for those above 65 years of age who participated in World War I and II. The financial assistance will be increased from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000, and this change is set to be effective from July 26, 2023.
Presently, 453 beneficiaries are availing benefits under this policy of the state government. This hike in financial assistance is expected to provide considerable relief to ex-servicemen and their widows, recognizing their sacrifice and service to the nation.
Approves Name of Former IPS Aulakh as PPCC Chairman
The Cabinet also approved forwarding the recommendation to Punjab Governor regarding the appointment of 1997-batch IPS officer Jatinder Singh Aulakh as the Punjab Public Service Commission chairman. The file regarding his appointment as the PPSC chairman has already been cleared by the Governor in the evening. Punjab police’s former intelligence chief, Aulakh was selected by the PPSC as DSP in April 1990; and was superannuated as ADGP Intelligence on January 31 last year. During his career spanning 33 years, he has been bestowed with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2022, Police Medal for Meritorious Services in 2011, Chief Minister's Medal for Outstanding Devotion to Duty in 2012, and three Director General's Commendation Disc in 2018, 2017, and 2010.
School of Eminence at Punjab Institute of Technology
The Cabinet gave its approval to set up a School of Eminence in the building of Punjab Institute of Technology (PIT) located in Arniwala Sheikh Subhan village. Originally proposed to be established in Government Secondary School, the decision to shift it to PIT was made due to space constraints.
Self-Certification of Residential Building Plans
In a major relief for urban residents, the Cabinet approved an amendment to Clause 3.14.1 of the Punjab Municipal Building Bylaws-2018. This allows for self-certification of residential building plans up to 500 square yards. The initiative aimed at reducing the time taken for approval, increase transparency, and sensitize citizens to comply with building bylaws.
Introduction of Farishtey Scheme
In a bid to lower the mortality and morbidity rate due to injuries occurring during road-side accidents, the Cabinet approved the introduction of the Farishtey scheme — an initiative aimed at providing immediate and hassle-free treatment to accident victims in both public and empaneled private hospitals. To encourage public participation, the State Government will reward individuals assisting accident victims with Rs 2,000. Commendation certificates will also be issued, describing them as ‘farishtey’ (angels), providing immunity from legal complications and police inquiries.
