Gurpurab Greetings

Birthday of Sri Guru Ravidas Ji (January 31) 2 Punjab Advance August 2016 Editorial

hat the previous government could not achieve in 10 years, the Capt Amarinder Singh-led Congress government has done in 10 months: It has Wbrought a smile on the face of the debt-ridden farmers. The first Sunday of the New Year (2018) was a momentous day for Punjab, when a sea of farming community descended on Mansa to listen to the people’s Chief Minister’s loan- waiver greetings. In a symbolic gesture he handed over loan waiver certificates to 10 farm- ers from the districts of Mansa, Bathinda, Faridkot, Muktsar and Moga. The Opposition had to eat their words as the Captain went about fulfilling one prom- ise after another, culminating in the biggest poll promise of farm debt-waiver. Loan-waiver certificates for Rs 2,700 crore are being distributed to 5.63 lakh farmers in the first phase, with a total of 10.25 lakh farmers being covered in four phases. There is a ray of hope for the farm labourers also. The CM promised that even the farm labourers would be taken care of once the state’s fiscal condition stabilizes. The other key issues that have been well handled have been drugs and industry. The new industrial policy has given a new lease of life to the state’s industry which had been wit- nessing bad times in the past 10 years, resulting in the closure of a number of big indus- trial units. The new policy has attracted large-scale investments which will open big employment avenues for the youth in the New Year. That the government has been able to show tangible results in just nine months is a big achievement, considering the empty coffers it inherited from the previous government. With the drug menace also under control, the year 2018 will bring more good tidings for the youth. The Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh has shared the government’s rough ride and achievements in his New Year message to his Punjabi brethren and spelt out his resolve for the four-plus years. We begin this issue with the message. Looking forward to your word on the magazine.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 3 Contents Punjab Advance www.punjabadvanceonline.com Loan waiver is CM’s new year gift to farmers LJANUARY - 2018 LVOL-5 L ISSUE-1

C.E.O. N Gurkirat Kirpal Singh (IAS)

Editor N Donald Banerjee

Designer N Kumar Jiv Chumber

Publisher N Information & Public Relations Department, Punjab 06

Contact address N Affordable housing PUNJAB ADVANCE, Room No. 1, 5th Floor, for all Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh-160001 Ph. : 0172-2740668 [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views expressed by the authors in the articles published in PUNJAB ADVANCE are their own. They do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Punjab Government or the organization they work for. Editor reserves the right to edit, abridge or expand the articles submitted. In case of any dispute, legal 12 jurisdiction will lie in Chandigarh based courts.

Published and Edited by Gurkirat Kirpal Singh (IAS) on behalf of the Information and Shashi Kapoor—the Public Relations Department, Punjab at Room No. 1, 5th Floor, Civil Sectt., first cross-over star Chandigarh.

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4 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Shrimp farming Changing face of wasteland Cong sweeps civic polls

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14 Green canopy of native trees CM unveils package for Anandpur Sahib

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A job in social media 18

Workout in winter 34 Page-44

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 5 Promises delivered, more on way Captain Amarinder Singh Chief Minister, Punjab he year 2017 was with open arms to bring them out of depth of the havoc which the erst- momentous for Punjab, the debris of ruin into which they had while government had wreaked on whoseT people voted for a much- been plunged over the previous our beloved state, we realised that the needed political change. decade. task before us was daunting to the Today, as I look back at the year To say that I felt humbled by this extreme. We had the option of sitting gone by, I recall that moment when, mandate would be an understate- and crying, and spending the next on March 11, I received the people’s ment. I, and I am sure every other one year blaming the Akali-BJP mandate to lead the state into the fu- member of our party, was truly over- leadership for what they had done ture. There was, of course, a lot of whelmed as we took on the onerous to the state, or getting down to ful- anger in that mandate against the responsibility which the people had previous regime. More importantly, handed over to us. filling our poll promises one by one. however, there was much hope and It took us some time to come to We chose the latter. optimism, as the people of Punjab terms with the harsh realities facing Nine months is hardly any time to welcomed the Congress government us, and as we started unravelling the judge the success or failure of a

6 Punjab Advance January - 2018 government elected for five years, and rice, which has helped bring pension and financial assistance especially considering the mess we some semblance of security back under the Ashirwad scheme, besides inherited on every front. Yet, we have into the lives of our beleaguered increase in reservation for OBCs in managed to not only implement farmers. educational institutions and for SCs many of our key election promises Moving now to another critical in all government schemes, are but, in fact, have set the ball rolling promise of my government, the new some of the measures we have im- for the others. It is not my intention industrial policy, complete with plemented on this count. Women here to list out all the work we have power subsidy and an end to the free empowerment, rural and urban in- done in this short period of time. reign of the transport unions, is al- frastructure development, in addition But it does give me pleasure to share ready a reality. And it has started to improvement in education and some of the promised tasks we have showing tangible results by bringing health welfare, have also been high successfully executed. And let me in substantial investment and busi- on our implementation agenda. clarify that I am doing so, not ness to the state, which had been wit- From improved law and order, to because I want to brag about our nessing large-scale closure of decline in the cases of sacrilege, the achievements but, more importantly, industries over the past 10 years. to put an end to the Opposition’s From contributing to the state’s eco- overall enrichment in the lives of campaign to mislead the people nomic development, to generating the people of Punjab is not some- of the state with their blatant deceits the much-needed employment for thing that even the most pessimist and falsehoods. our youth, I see this policy yielding can easily deny. It was my promise Let me begin by talking about the excellent results in the new year, and to bring to book those responsible for crop loan waiver issue, which the ahead. victimisation of innocent people Opposition has been trying to use as Drugs is another issue on which, through false cases, and the process a missile to fire at my government at notwithstanding the Opposition’s at- is well under way. every opportunity. Frankly, we could tempts to project the contrary, our ac- As mentioned earlier, this is not a have easily taken refuge in the stark complishment on the ground is comprehensive list. But this should reality of empty coffers to push back self-evident. For those who do not suffice to show the commitment the implementation of this promise, believe in numbers (though there with which we have embarked on which has a huge financial implica- are enough numbers to show that our our journey to bring Punjab’s devel- tion. We chose not to do that, as we efforts to destroy the drug mafia have opment and growth back on track. realised the gravity of the problems resulted in resounding success), I The beginning has been made, and faced by the farmers, as a result of would like to point to the virtual non- made well. And as they say, well the lopsided policies of the previous availability of drugs in the open begun is half done. Themomen- government. market to show that we have, well tumhasbeensetfor the next four-plus A few days from now, I will be and truly, succeeded in breaking the years that we still have to go. And, if formally launching the farm debt backbone of the drug mafia. need be, I am quite prepared to take - waiver scheme, which will Some of the big fish might have on the mantle of Punjab’s gover- eventually go on to benefit 10.25 managed to evade arrest so far, but nance again after the end of this term lakh of the worst-hit farmers in the the day is not far when they would to ensure that the state is not thrown state. This will be in addition to all land in the police net, and meet the the other steps we have taken for the fate that is inevitable, considering the back on the path of regression from welfare of the farming community, seriousness of their crime. which it has just started to recover. including abolition of kurki, take- An important aspect of our My promises are sacrosanct, and I over of loans of farmers who com- accomplishments so far, which defi- will stand by them, whatever it takes mitted suicide, and hike in kharaba nitely requires mention here, is the for me and my government. compensation from Rs 8,000 to Rs various social welfare initiatives that Finally, Happy New Year, my 12,000 per acre. And, of course, you have paved the way for the uplift- Punjabi brethren. May it bring peace, are all aware of the unprecedented ment of the underprivileged sections happiness and prosperity in your hassle-free procurement of wheat of society. Hike in social security lives.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 7 Cover Loan waiver is CM’s new year gift to farmers 5.63 lakh farmers get Rs 2,700 cr in first phase All farmers to be covered in four phases

The Chief Minister, Capt Amarinder Singh, addresses farmers at Mansa

BUREAU REPORT sea of farming com- Minister, Capt Amarinder Singh Amarinder Singh which he munity from five handed over to them in the form promised to fulfil while taking Adistricts of Punjab converged on of farm debt waiver certificates. charge on March 16. And keep- Mansa for the biggest New Year It was one of the main poll ing to his word the Fauji Chief gift that their people’s Chief promises made by Capt Minister took just nine months,

8 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Cover

An aerial view of the vast gathering of farmers at Mansa overriding the fiscal crisis, to bank accounts, he said, describ- help from the Centre. implement the scheme before a ing the launch as a beginning to- The Chief Minister referred massive gathering of farmers on wards solving the problems that to the reported suicide by a Bar- the first Sunday of 2018. were causing farmers to commit nala farmer to point to the extent Capt Amarinder Singh sym- suicide. A total of 5.63 lakh of shameless propaganda which bolically handed over waiver cer- farmers will benefit in the first the opposition parties and some tificates to 10 farmers from the phase, which will provide relief of the unions had unleashed. five districts of Mansa, Bathinda, to the tune of Rs 2700 crores. Captain Amarinder categorically Faridkot, Muktsar and Moga. The entire loan waiver denied any such suicide on ac- The nearly 47000 farmers process would be completed in count of non-inclusion of the who had taken loans from 701 four phases and the state gov- farmer’s name in the waiver list. Primary Agriculture Coopera- ernment has promised to find The farmer’s name was included tive Societies of the five districts ways and means of making it in the list from Barnala, he said, were getting their money in their happen, despite not getting any adding that it was obvious that a

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 9 Cover fraudulent campaign had been entire loan waiver process labourers would be taken care of launched by vested interests. would be completed in four once the state’s fiscal condition Not only had the government phases and his government stabilizes. announced higher loan waiver would find ways and means of Describing Captain than other states, including the making it happen, despite not Amarinder as a man of his word, BJP-ruled ones, but had, in fact, getting any help from the Cen- whom people swear by as an done so despite the huge finan- tre. He had personally had sev- epitome of commitment and sin- cial constraints faced by it. The eral meetings with the central cerity, PPCC president Sunil CM gave the examples of Ma- government to seek support in Jakhar said Parkash Singh Badal harashtra (upto Rs 1.5 lakh), UP debt waiver but the Centre had was resorting to dirty politics (upto Rs 1 lakh), Rajasthan not extended any help in this over the debt waiver issue. (upto Rs 50000), MP (upto CM’s assurance to Badal had earlier tried to Rs 1 lakh) and Karnataka farm labourers mislead the people saying (upto Rs 50000). Captain Amarinder will not Acknowledging that some The Chief Minister Capt Amarinder fulfill this particular promise farmers could and might have Singh gave an assurance that his gov- and was now trying to cover got left out due to technical ernment would also waive loans of up his embarrassment by errors, Captain Amarinder farm labourers, once the state’s fiscal saying Rs 2 lakhs is not said these issues were being condition stabilizes. enough for the farmers. resolved and those who still Various studies undertaken to un- Unlike other parties and ended up with complaints derstand the extent of farm debt in leaders, the Congress does should approach their respec- Punjab had found that farm labourers not indulge in ‘jumley ki ra- tive SDMs or DCs, whom he were one of the most badly-hit class jneeti’ (politics of false had personally directed to re- and should be considered for suitable claims and dialogues), he solve at the earliest. relief in any loan waiver scheme, added. Pointing out that for- No eligible farmer will be Amarinder said and criticised opposi- mer Prime Minister Dr Man- excluded from the waiver ex- tion parties and some kisan unions for mohan Singh waived loans ercise; he assured the people, spreading "false propaganda" on the is- worth Rs 90000 crore, adding that he was personally sues faced by farmers. Jakhar said Captain keeping tabs on the disburse- matter to any state. Despite this, Amarinder set the ball rolling in ments. however, he did not allow him- Punjab, forcing other states, in- Asserting that he wanted the self to be deterred from fulfill- cluding Madhya Pradesh, Maha- poor farmers in the state, which ing this vital promise made to rashtra and Rajasthan, to follow. has 17.5 lakh farming families the farmers, Captain Amarinder Jakhar lashed out at Badal to benefit under the scheme, the added. and the Akalis for befooling Chief Minister said 10.25 lakh Reiterating his government’s people in the name of Panth and farmers were being covered, commitment to the uplift of the Kisans, doing nothing for which only left out the bigger beleaguered farmers, the Chief farmers and putting the state in farmers. He himself was a big Minister pointed out that the deep debt. farmer and others like him, state had witnessed record pro- Captain Amarinder, who feels including Parkash Singh Badal, duction this year, including of the pain of the farmers, has done could manage to look after cotton. He assured the farmers in less than 10 months what the themselves, said Captain that he would ensure that they Akalis failed to do in 10 years. Amarinder. do not face any problems, and The Akalis were hungry only for The Chief Minister said the promised that even the farm money, he said, adding that those

10 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Cover politicizing the issue and mis- nathan report to alleviate the Proposing a vote of thanks at leading the farmers were doing a woes of the farmers in the long the conclusion of the launch cer- great disservice to Punjab. term. He lambasted the central emony, Finance Minister Man- Notwithstanding political government for failing to double preet Singh Badal said that differences with the Congress, the income of the farmers, as entire team of Cabinet Ministers the Badals should not mislead promised by Prime Minister along with party MLAs were the farmers to promote their Narendra Modi. committed to fulfilling all prom- vested interest. In fact, Parkash Rural Development and Pan- ises made to the people of Pun- Singh Badal should congratulate chayats Minister Tript Rajinder jab. He said that the state the Chief Minister and offer to Singh Bajwa said that despite government was earnestly mak- support the ruling party’s efforts the poor fiscal health of the ing all efforts to bring fiscal to seek waiver from the central state, Captain Amarinder Singh prudence for ensuring economic government, Jakhar said. had honoured his government’s stability in the state. Jakhar pointed to the record commitment to launch the debt Prominent amongst others procurement that had taken place relief for farmers. He further who attended the function were this year, under the Captain pointed out that the previous Punjab Vidhan Sabha Deputy Amarinder regime, and referred government led by Parkash Speaker Ajaib Singh Bhatti, to the debt of Rs. 46,000 crore Singh Badal did nothing tangi- Cabinet Ministers Rana Gurjit on the state when Captain ble to improve the economic lot Singh, Sadhu Singh Dharmsot, Amarinder led Congress govern- of the farmers. Bajwa demanded Aruna Chaudary, Media Advisor ment demitted office in 2007, as to know what Badal’s govern- to CM Raveen Thukral, Punjab against the debt trap of over Rs. ment got from the Centre, under Mandi Board Chairman, Lal 2 lakh crore by the end of 2017. the leadership of Prime Minister Singh besides several Congress The PPCC chief called for Narendra Modi, for Punjab’s party MLAs, leaders and implementation of the Swami- farmers in the past 10 years. workers. 16,000 km of link roads to wear new look n a bid to provide hassle free network of rural link roads across Iand smooth transportation of the state having a length of farmers’ produce to mandis across 61,436 km of which 22,869 km the state, the Chief Minister Capt link roads are due for repair. Amarinder Singh launched a mas- About 16,000 km of link sive development programme for roads are badly damaged, which the repair of 16000 km of link roads need immediate renovation and at a cost of Rs. 2000 crore. will be covered under this road This gigantic rural road devel- repair project during the year opment project will be executed by 2018-19. the Punjab Mandi Board and is Captain Amarinder pointed expected to be completed by March 31, 2019. The project will be out that these link roads, which closely monitored by the Chairman, were critical for the farmers to Punjab Mandi Board Lal Singh on a take their produce to the Mandis, regular basis to ensure its timely were last repaired during his ear- completion. lier tenure and were in desperate Pertinently, the state had a total need of renovation.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 11 Cover Affordable housing for all · All master plans to be online · Illegal colonies set to be regularised BUREAU REPORT ffordable hous- The Department had ing for all is the started the Punjab Shehri Anext big vision of the Chief Awas Yojana-2017 under Minister, Capt Amarinder which applications were Singh, which the state gov- received in all towns in the ernment is all set to imple- State, which would be ver- ment. ified and the final list A special policy for af- would be prepared in the fordable colonies is being next three months there- prepared on small size after construction of plots and housing at rea- houses and grant of bene- sonable rates so as to pro- fits will start in 2018, vide houses to all with which would be launched basic amenities in urban by Chief Minister Captain areas. Amarinder Singh on Re- Listing several land- public Day. mark initiatives being The comprehensive pol- taken and implemented icy for regularization of il- Mrs. Vini Mahajan since April 2017, the Addi- legal colonies will be tional Chief Secretary app to keep tab on Illegal finalized within the next Housing and Urban Develop- colonies and Illegal Construc- two months. This will ensure ment, Mrs. Vini Mahajan, said tion. She said the PUDA Mo- that those citizens who have the vision of the department was bile App had also been started taken plots in such colonies are to ensure availability of afford- besides the implementation of able to witness basic services. It able housing and required urban 'First In First Out' Service in Es- will also be ensured that further spaces for commerce and indus- tate Offices of Authorities colonization would be done in a try etc. to all the citizens of the All the Master Plans in the planned manner so that all re- State. State will be made online and e- quired amenities are provided in An e-CLU service had been CLU will be started in all these the colonies by the colonizers. launched under which the Lalru Master Plans. In addition, e-ap- This matter was under consider- master plan was taken on a pilot proval for licenses for develop- ation of the Cabinet sub-com- basis besides initiating e-auc- ment of colonies will be started mittee headed by Health tion across all Authorities vis-à- this year. Online Building Plan Minister Mr. Brahm Mohindra. vis launch of Revenue-based approval will also be undertaken The policy for marriage Master plans and an exclusive in the year 2018. palaces is already under imple-

12 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Cover

mentation and full compliance treated water, rain water har- 4000 acres of land near the In- will be ensured in the year 2018. vesting and green cover will be ternational Airport under land Special policies for rental af- ensured. It will also be ensured pooling policy has already been fordable housing for students, that services by the Estate Office initiated. Similarly land pooling labour and senior citizens will and other offices of the Devel- will be encouraged in other au- be put in place in the next 3 opment Authorities are given in thorities as well. An IT Univer- months. New unified building a time bound and hassel free sity is proposed in Mohali over rules are under preparation and manner. New Special Develop- an area of 50 acres, she added. will be notified before March ment Authority is going to come The State Government had 31, 2018, she informed. up at Anandpur Sahib for better set up the Real Estate Regula- The Development Authorities development of that area, said tory Authority, which will en- will speed up efforts to provide Mrs Mahajan. sure that grievances of citizens quality, affordable housing and Work on the convention cen- with regard to various coloniza- commercial sites all over the ters at Mohali, Ludhiana and tion are speedily addressed and state. 24x7 water supply, smart Amritsar would be undertaken the functioning of the real estate water meters, promotion of in PPP mode. The process to get sector become more transparent Solar power, use of Tertiary land for expansion of about and trustworthy.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 13 Cover Shrimp farming Changing face of wasteland

Shrimp being loaded in containers at a fish farm in Sri Muktsar Sahib.

BUREAU REPORT hrimp fish farming is the Kaur and Juginder Kaur in Koliawali "The income is many times more answer to farmers of the village as fish were taken out of the than the normal crop income. Four ShriS Muktsar Sahib district who have pond. They were happy at the outcome months ago the seed was brought from to face difficult conditions because of of the new project and vowed to go in Tamil Nadu, and in four months the their fields which have been reduced to for pisciculture. crop is ready for harvest,” he added. useless wastelands with saline water. The bumper shrimp fish production According to Karmjit Singh, As- Yes a success story is being scripted on has brought a new hope for the farming sistant Director, Fisheries, shrimp this south-west district of Punjab by community of the district, who were farming is done in water where the five farmers which is going to change facing hardships because of their un- salinity level is more than 5 ppt. The the fate of the farmers. productive wasteland and saline water. district abounds in saline water, there- Deputy Commissioner Sumit The Deputy Commissioner said the fore fish farming can become a major Jarangal said for the first time under results of the first year are encouraging source of income for farmers. He said the subsidy scheme of the Punjab gov- and the traders from Delhi were ready that 90 per cent subsidy is being given ernment, shrimp fish farming was in- to pay a tidy sum for the fish crop. This to dig the ponds for shrimp farming, troduced. The results are showing with year five farmers had done fish farm- whereas 50 per cent subsidy is being the fish ready for reaping the harvest. ing. And seeing the success story more given for the purchase of seed feed and Quite a number of farmers had than 50 farmers have been motivated other equipments. gathered at the fish ponds of Harpinder to go in for shrimp farming. Giving details he said fish worth Rs

14 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Cover

12 lakh is produced in a pond of one main occupation in this waterlogging- monthly income of above Rs 1 lakh. acre and farmers wanting to go in for affected district. “It is much better than doing a job any such project will be provided all For instance, Gurpreet Singh, a in any multinational company by stay- help by the Fisheries Department. BTech graduate and a native of Ratta ing away from home. I have worked in Two successful fish farmers, Khera village, has started shrimp farm- Delhi but my income was lesser.” Harpinder Kaur and Fateh Singh, said ing on 1.5-acre waterlogging-hit land. Meanwhile, Madan Mohan, direc- the cost of production in shrimp farm- He had done the stocking of seed in tor, Fisheries Department, Punjab, who ing is very high per hectare but the in- June and got the first produce of nearly visited some ponds in the district, said: come is also good. They thanked the 6 MT late in October this year on the “This year, 19 farmers from Muktsar government for encouraging them to first harvest. “I have sold my produce and Fazilka districts have started go in for fish farming and said the proj- at Rs 300 per kg to a Delhi-based con- shrimp farming on 37 acres. The state ect had helped them to create gold tractor. My entire produce will fetch is providing huge subsidy to promote from their useless wasteland. The fish me nearly Rs 16 lakh and that too from aquaculture. Shrimp farming is possi- crop is ready in four months and offers the land which never gave us profit in ble where the salinity of water is higher a lot of profit, they said. the past two decades. “My total profit than 5 PPT. In other areas, the farmers “The most important thing is that will be nearly Rs 8 lakh,” he added. can do fish farming.” we can produce shrimp fish in waste- Similarly, 27-year-old Rupinderpal Karamjit Singh, Deputy Director, land with saline water”, they added. Singh, a BTech-qualified farmer from Fisheries Department, Muktsar, said, It is not just the elderly and sea- Jandwala Charhat Singh village, said, “We are getting good response from soned farmers who have gone in for “I started fish farming about four years the farmers. Many farmers come to us shrimp farming, some well-educated ago in a 4.5 acre pond. Now, I have a daily to ask about the technicalities of youngsters have also adopted it as their fish pond on 15 acres and am getting a fish farming.” Mohali farmer scripts success story Combines bio-farming with dairy farming ian Singh Dhadak, a position in the state for produc- Gprogressive farmer of a ing 40 litres of milk and in village in SAS Nagar, has set 2012 an HF breed cow made a new records by adopting dairy new record of producing 55 farming along with bio agricul- litres of milk. ture and is proving to be a Cows of Dhadak got source of inspiration for other awards in various competi- farmers of the district. Dhadak tions. He also emerged the says dairy farming is very ben- winner in a championship or- eficial for the farmers and they ganised by Punjab Agriculture should adopt it along with agri- University in 2010. Dhadak culture so that they gain financial strength. prepares bio-feed for the cows himself and sells 4 quin- Born and brought up in Dhadak village, Gian Singh tals of milk daily to the Verka plant in Mohali. In fact staff Dhadak, who owns six hectares of land, is today a well- from the Verka plant collect the milk from his farm. known figure because of his achievements in bio-farming Dhadak also does organic farming in wheat, paddy, along with dairy farming. After graduating from Panjab vegetables and green feed for livestock, in his fields. Be- University Chandigarh, he opted for agriculture as an oc- sides being a successful farmer, Dhadak is also a social ac- cupation instead of doing any service or job and got train- tivist and is associated with various social organisations. ing in dairy farming form the Punjab Dairy Department. He is vice- chairman of MilkFed Mohali and a member of He also underwent training in cattle breeding from Pun- the Progressive Dairy Farmers (PDF) since 1997 and he is jab Agriculture University Ludhiana. In the year 1997, a member of Bhai Gurdas Sewa Mission, Social Dhadak took a loan of Rs. 7 lakh and started dairy farming Organisation of Social Justice Mohali and is also a member with 20 American cows. His dedication saw his business of various other district and state level societies. of dairy farming grow multi-fold. Today he owns 55 Amer- Dhadak says if traditional crops are not proving to be ican cows and each of them produces 25 litres of milk per day. beneficial, the farmers should adopt bio-farming, dairy farm- In the year 2009, a cow of "Jersi" breed gained the first ing and other allied occupations to increase our income.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 15 Cover

ITC officials show their products to the Chief Minister. ITC project to give boost to diversification BUREAU REPORT TC Limited has rolled out imately Rs 1,500 crore, the world-class Amarinder Singh, in his inaugural ad- its new state-of-the-art Inte- facility will manufacture ITC’s popu- dress said in spite of the state’s record gratedI Food Manufacturing and Logis- lar food brands, such as ‘Aashirvaad’, contribution to the nation’s rice and tics Facility at Kapurthala, giving a ‘Bingo!’, ‘Sunfeast’, ‘YiPPee!’ and ‘B wheat production, the farmers will major fillip to the state’s food process- Natural’, among others. have to go in for diversification, in ing sector and strengthening its belea- Besides supporting the farmers, the which the ITC project would play an guered economy. project will help generate employment important role. Spread over 72 acres of land, with in the state. Expressing happiness at the facil- an initial investment outlay of approx- The Chief Minister, Capt ity, which would help the farming

16 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Cover

community transition from the tradi- nificant value to the State’s agricultural PAPRA. tional wheat-crop cycle to the more lu- potential as the food processing sector, ITC with its diversified business crative crops, the Chief Minister said being at the intersection of agriculture, portfolio, has a growing presence in such projects would be instrumental industry and services, can make a Punjab. A number of co-manufacturing not only in saving the state’s crunched multi-dimensional contribution to the units have already been set up for pro- fertile land and water resources but State’s economy by enhancing the ducing ITC’s world-class range of food also in boosting farm income. competitiveness of the food value products. ITC subsidiary, Technico, Referring to the plight of potato chain. Puri said the Mandi being set up which is the largest producer of early farmers, who were forced to dump within the facility will ensure on-the- generation seed potato in India, is en- their produce on the roads because of spot payments, and will also enhance gaged in extensive agri development their inability to sell it at a good price, sourcing of milk and other products. programmes in the State. Captain Amarinder stressed the need to This is the third of the five plants In addition, ITC is making a mean- end the crisis with projects like this. He ITC is setting up in the complex, with ingful contribution to the tourism sec- pointed out the ITC project would the remaining two also expected to be- tor in the State. One property under bring new seeds and techniques that come operational by March next year. ITC’s WelcomHeritage brand has would enable the farmers to produce Once completed, the entire facility will opened recently in Amritsar and two potatoes that would find a ready market. be spread over 1.5 million square feet more premium hotels under ITC’s Wel- Earlier, dedicating the facility to area, making it the largest in the country. comHotel and Fortune brands are on the people of Punjab, ITC CEO Sanjiv In line with New Industrial and the anvil. Puri said the company received speedy Business Development Policy 2017, Prominent amongst others who clearances to complete the plant’s con- the State Government will provide all werer present on the occasion included struction in record time. the fiscal incentives available for an- Media Advisor to Chief Minister Mr Pointing out that ITC was present chor units to ITC, which will include Raveen Thukral, MLAs Mr Navtej across various sectors, from agriculture 100% reimbursement of net SGST for Singh Cheema, Mr Ramanjeet Singh to manufacturing and services, the 15 years. Sikki and Mr Amarpal Singh Bhullar, CEO said the company would make It may be noted that the New In- former MLAs Mr Joginder Singh the most of the new industrial policy, dustrial and Business Development Mann and Mrs Rajbhans Kaur Rana, with its favourable provisions, to ex- Policy 2017 of the State has declared Chief Secretary Mr Karan Avtar Singh, pand in Punjab. The ease of doing busi- food processing as thrust sector and Secretary Industries Mr Rakesh Verma, ness in the state, under the new regime, provides various fiscal and non-fiscal Deputy Commissioner Kapurthala Mr was evident, he said, adding that the incentives to investors such as power Mohammed Tayyab, Inspector General government interventions in the indus- tariff @ Rs. 5 per unit, reimbursement of Police Mr Arpit Shukla, Deputy In- try policy will go a long way in making upto 100% net SGST, 100% exemption spector General of Police Mr Jaskaran Punjab an industrial hub. from Electricity Duty, Stamp Duty, Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police The facility, which will create CLU/EDC exemptions, 100% exemp- Mr Sandeep Sharma and Additional large-scale livelihoods across the sus- tion of all taxes & fees on raw material Deputy Commissioner Mr Rahul tainable agri-value chains, will add sig- upto 10 years, exemption from Chaba. Shift to allied farming:CM hief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh has rearing, bee-keeping, poultry, fishery etc. to sup- Casked farmers to shift to livestock and al- plement their income,” he said. lied farming sectors to boost their income and get Stating that there was record paddy production out of the “vicious” wheat-paddy cycle. of 190 lakh metric tonnes in the current kharif The Chief Minister said allied farming and season, the CM lauded the contribution of diversification had emerged as the need of the Punjab’s progressive farmers to the country’s milk hour due to depleting profits from traditional production. farming. He also stressed the need to promote “Our government will do everything to moti- horticulture as part of the state’s crop vate farmers to adopt dairying, pig farming, goat- diversification programme.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 17 Cover CM unveils package for Anandpur Sahib · Skills university to hone talent of youth · Steps to boost tourism, industrial growth

Capt Amarinder Singh explains a point to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.

BUREAU REPORT unjab Chief Minister Cap- to set up the Skills University at ering opposite the Keshgarh Sahib tain Amarinder Singh has Chamkaur Sahib in the name of Gurdwara at Anandpur Sahib after Pannounced the revival of the Anandpur Dashmesh Pita Guru Gobind Singh. paying his obeisance to Sri Guru Gob- Sahib Urban Development Authority, The Chief Minister made these an- ind Singh ji on the conclusion of the along with his government’s decision nouncements while addressing a gath- saint-soldier’s 350th birth anniversary

18 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Cover

commemoration celebrations. land, would help empower the children mony, religious tolerance, peace and Captain Amarinder also said he of this sacred land and make them brotherhood. He pointed out that Sri would request the Government of India gainfully employable in the competi- Guru Gobind Singh ji never discrimi- to declare the Guru Gobind Singh tive global job market, he added. nated against any religion, but re- Marg in the State and the rest of India The Chief Minister also announced spected all human beings, regardless of as a National Highway and road of several measures to promote industrial colour, caste and creed. special importance. development and tourism in the area. Cultural Affairs and Tourism Min- Former Prime Minister Dr Man- The government would work on im- ister Navjot Sidhu said the unparalleled mohan Singh accompanied Captain proving tourist facilities in the region, sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh ji Amarinder at the event, along with the which has a plethora of historic monu- would continue to inspire generation to latter’s wife and former Union Minis- ments and religious sites, he said. imbibe the spirit of self-sacrifice for ter Preneet Kaur, AICC leaders Asha Captain Amarinder highlighted the the welfare of humanity. Kumari, Harish Chaudhary and Am- potential for a Food Park in the Ropar- Member Parliament from Gur- bika Soni, Local Bodies Minister Anandpur Sahib belt, as well as scope daspur and PPCC president Sunil Navjot Singh Sidhu, PPCC President for development of large units for the Jakhar said that Guru Gobind Singh ji Sunil Jakhar, Speaker Punjab Vidhan manufacturing of earthmoving ma- invoked a spirit of self-sacrifice and Sabha and MLA Sri Anandpur Sahib chinery like JCBs, Truck and bus bod- universal brotherhood amongst the Rana KP Singh, among others. ies. He further mooted declaration of a people, especially Punjabis. Captain Amarinder was presented Stone Crusher Zone to locate stone In his welcome address, Rana KP a Siropa by Jathedar Takht Sri Kesh- crushers in this crusher zone and de- Singh said he was fortunate to be garh Sahib Giani Raghbir Singh and velop the stone crushing industry in the elected from this holy place to serve Head Granthi Phoola Singh on the his- belt. the people of this region. He expressed toric occasion, which the Chief Minis- Further, being close to Ludhiana, a gratitude to Dr Manmohan Singh for ter described as a moment he would Textile Park in the garmenting, weav- sanctioning a special Rs. 102 crore always cherish. The Jathedar also pre- ing and technical textile can be planned package for the development of Sri sented a Siropa to the former Prime in this area, he said, disclosing that one Anandpur Sahib during his prime min- Minister. of the major Anchor units – Sportking isterial tenure. He also thanked Captain The Chief Minister, who had ear- – was planning a large unit in Ropar. Amarinder Singh for special allocation lier visited Takht Sri Patna Sahib Gu- Recalling the countless blessings of to the tune of Rs. 100 crore during his rudwara as part of the 350th Sri Guru Gobind Singh bestowed upon previous term in 2002 for the all-round commemoration celebrations, said the his forefathers Baba Tarloka and Baba development of this historic city land of Sri Anandpur Sahib had a spe- Rama ji, Captain Amarinder said that Earlier, eminent Dhadi Des Raj cial place in the hearts of the Sikhs as immediately after the creation of Lachkani, Kuljit Singh Dilbar regaled the Guru had founded the Khalsa Panth Khalsa Panth in 1699, Guru Gobind the Sangat with their scintillating per- here. Captain Amarinder said the ide- Singh ji personally baptised his forefa- formance. Dr. Nivedita Singh, a classi- ology and philosophy of Guru Gobind thers in 1702 at Damdama Sahib. He cal vocalist from Punjabi University, Singh ji, whom he described as unique also said that his forefathers had been Patiala and Bhai Baldeep Singh per- and special for Sikhs worldwide, con- fortunate to have the possession of rare formed kirtan on the occasion. Noted tinued to be relevant even today. treasure of Hukamnama, Sri Nishan Sikh scholar Bhai Ashok Singh Bagnia Underlining his government’s com- Sahib and Shashtars bestowed upon and Professor Emeritus, department of mitment to the upliftment of this holy them by Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, History, Panjab University, Chandigarh place, the Chief Minister said the re- which were still kept in the Gurdwara Dr. Indu Banga highlighted the differ- vival of Sri Anandpur Sahib Urban De- Sahib with utmost respect and rever- ent aspects of Guru ji’s life and ideol- velopment Authority would pave the ence by his family members. ogy. Apart from these, renowned way for the upgradation of its basic in- Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Punjabi poet Padam Shree Surjit Singh frastructure and amenities. The skills Manmohan Singh said the life and ide- Patar and classical vocalist Sajan Misra university, for which the government ology of Guru Gobind Singh showed also recited a poem on Noor-e-Nazar has already approved 100 acres of the path to strengthen the ethos of har- and Shabad Kirtan respectively.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 19 Cover

Cong sweeps civic polls

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he Capt Amarinder percentage of over 62.22 per cent fol- while the opposition failed to open ac- Singh-led Congress has lowed by Jalandhar at 57.2 and Amrit- count. swept the three municipal corporation sar at 51 per cent while the voting In Jalandhar, 66 wards fell into the pollsT - Amritsar, Jalandhar and Patiala. percentage in the 29 municipal coun- Congress kitty followed by BJP (8) Polling was also held in 29 munic- cils and nagar panchayats ranged be- and SAD (4). ipal councils and nagar panchayats. tween 60-86 per cent. In Amritsar, Congress won 64, For the three municipal corpora- Congress swept the Patiala munic- SAD 7, BJP 6 and 8 wards went to the tions, Patiala registered the highest poll ipal corporation winning 59 wards independents.

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Overall, the Congress won 189 wards in the three municipal corpora- tions followed by the BJP with 14, SAD with 11, while 10 were won by Independents. The Congress emerged victorious in 20 out of 29 Municipal Councils and Nagar Panchayats. Out of the total 414 wards Con- gress won in 267, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) in 37, BJP in 15, AAP in 1 and Independents in 94 wards. Divulging details, the spokesman said in 13 wards of Rajasansi in Am- ritsar the Congress won 7, SAD 3, BJP 3. In 13 wards of Handiaya in Barnala the Congress won 7, SAD 3 and BJP 3. In 13 wards of Amloh in Fatehgarh Sahib the Congress won 9, SAD and BJP 2 each, in 13 wards of Bhogpur in Jalandhar Independents won all 13, in My heartfelt thanks to the people of Punjab for 13 wards of Shahkot the Congress won turning out in huge numbers to support the Congress 12 and Independents 1, in 13 wards of in the MC, Nagar Panchayat & Council elections. The Goraya Congress won 10, SAD and BJP 1 each and Independents 1. In 13 sweeping victory for @INCPunjab is a clear wards of Bilga the Congress won 4, vindication of our policies and a defeat of the SAD 3 and independents 6. In 11 wards of Dhilwan in Kapurthala Con- Opposition’s false propaganda. gress won 7 and the Independents 4. Capt Amarinder Singh, In 13 wards of Begowal the Con- Chief Minister, Punjab gress won 4, SAD 8 and Independents 1. In 13 wards of Bhulath Congress won 5, SAD 4, AAP 1, Independents 1. In Narot Jaimal Singh (Pathankot) (Hoshiarpur) out of 13 wards the 3. In 15 wards of Machhiwara in out of 11 wards all were won by the Congress won 8, SAD 3 and Ludhiana district, Congress won 12, Congress. In Dirba (Sangrur) out of 13 Independents 2. SAD and BJP 1 each and independents wards the Congress won 11 and the The voting started at 8 AM and 1. In 13 wards of Mullanpur Dakha the Independents 2. In 13 wards of continued till 4 PM, a spokesman of Congress won all 13, In 11 wards of Cheema the Congress won 1 and the the state election commission said Maloud the Congress won 8, SAD and Independents 12. In 13 wards of here. BJP 1 each and independents 1. In 15 Khanouri the Congress won 6, SAD 1 Nearly 900 candidates were in fray wards of Sahnewal the Congress won and Independents 6. In 13 wards of for the elections to the three municipal 12, SAD 2 and BJP 1. In 13 wards of Moonak the Independents won in all corporations of Amritsar, Patiala and Dharamkot in Moga the Congress won wards. In 13 wards of Khemkaran Jalandhar. 11, and SAD and Independents 1 each. (Tarn Taran) the Congress won 12 and The civic polls were held nine In Fatehgarh Panjtoor out of 11 wards the Independents 1. In Bhikhi (Mansa) months after the assembly elections the Congress won 10 and SAD 1. In out of 13 wards the Congress won 6 after which the Congress had wrested Bariwala (Muktsar) the Congress won and Independents 7. power from SAD-BJP combine in the 9 out of total 11 wards while SAD and In 15 wards of Balachaur in Sha- state. independents won 1 each. In Ghagga heed Bhagat Singh Nagar the Inde- Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder (Patiala) out of 13 wards the Congress pendents won all wards. In Talwandi Singh hailed the poll results as a "clear won 8, SAD 1 and BJP and independ- Sabo (Bathinda) out of 15 wards the vindication of the Congress policies ents 2 each. In 11 wards of Ghanour Congress won 13 and SAD and Inde- and a resounding defeat of the opposi- the Congress won 10 and Independents pendents 1 each. In Mahilpur tion's deceitful propaganda.”

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 21 PUNJAB DIARY

Food safety on wheels

a p t a i n The Chief Minis- Amarinder ter appreciated the CSingh flagged off a initiative of the Food Mobile Food Testing and Drug Adminis- Laboratory to check tration and expressed adulterated food and the hope that this van beverage samples in would also create the state. The lab is further awareness aligned to the guide- among the people re- lines set by the garding food safety. ‘Food Safety and Mohindra said Standards Authority that as food tests lab- of India’ (FSSAI) oratories were not and will be used to available every- conduct tests of where, FDA had de- milk, water, edible cided to set up oils and other items mobile food test labs of food for daily to encourage healthy consumption The Chief Minister flags off a mobile food testing lab. and safe food prac- The ‘Food safety tices. The van was on wheels’ van is fully equipped with also equipped to detect fats, solids not fat, adulterants such analytical instruments, such as milk analyzer, hot air oven, as starch, sucrose, urea, maltodextrin, in milk, pH, total dis- hot plate, mixer-grinder, digital weighing scale, digital multi solved solids, conductivity etc. in water, besides detection of parameter hand-held meter and digital refractometer. synthetic colours such as metanil yellow in turmeric powder, During the event, the Chief Minister also launched an along with many other spot tests to check adulteration in Android Mobile app Food Safety Punjab, which is free of other food items. cost and downloadable from Google Play Store. This appli- FDA officials at the flag-off ceremony, which was also cation provides guidelines to citizens for detection of adul- attended by Health & Family Welfare Minister Brahm Mo- teration with rapid test of various consumable items and also hindra, informed the Chief Minister that the van also had provides information about safe and nutritious food. With the facility to draw on-the-spot samples and generate instant this initiative, the beneficiary can online apply for registra- reports. tion/licensing.

New sub-tehsil for Fatehgarh Sahib

unjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh Sirhind Choe in Fatehgarh Sahib town, at an already sanc- has announced the creation of a new sub-tehsil at tioned cost of Rs. 5.71 crore. The government had resolved ChanarthalP to comprise 55 villages of Fatehgarh Sahib sub- a minor issue with the Ministry of Railways to set the im- division, and proposed the naming of the new National plementation process in motion, he added. Highway from Patiala to Panyali as Mata Gujri Marg. The state government has prepared a special plan for the The Chief Minister, who was here for the historic an- development of historical tourism sites, as well as beautifi- nual Shaheedi Sabha to commemorate the `supreme sacri- cation, in the Fatehgarh Sahib-Sirhind area. fice’ of Sri Guru Gobind Singh’s sons and his mother, also For the new National Highway from Patiala to Panyali announced a new bus stand for Sirhind, which will be con- (on Ropar-Phagwara road) via Sirhind- Fatehgarh Sahib- structed by Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC). Bassi Pathana-Morinda, the Chief Minister said the proposal The Chief Minister also announced that the way had had already been submitted to the National Highway Au- been paved for the implementation of the lining of the thority of India (NHAI).

22 Punjab Advance January - 2018 PUNJAB DIARY

Nawanshahr hospital adjudged best

dding an- ority for the hospitals, o t h e r he added. Afeather to its cap, the The District Hos- District Hospital pital Nawanshahr at- Nawashahr has tained the top slot by clinched the first prize scoring 93.6 per cent under the Kayakalp points and pocketed Swachh Bharat Ab- the cash prize of Rs. hiyan 2017-18 for 50 lakh. The hospital maintaining high stan- also achieved 100 dards of cleanliness, points for cleanliness sanitation and hy- outside the boundary giene. Earlier, the wall that was included same hospital had fin- as a key indicator. ished fourth among the Apart from that, two state hospitals in 2016- District Health Officials from SBS Nagar, receive first prize worth mini PHCs of the dis- 17. Rs 50 Lakh under Kayakalp Programme from Health and Family trict, Behram and Po- The award was Welfare MinisterBrahm Mohindra. jewal, also got handed over by Health commendations and and Family Welfare Minister Brahm Mohindra to the health cash prizes of Rs 50000 each. officials from SBS Nagar District, including Dr. Sukhwinder Extending congratulations to the entire district health Singh, Officiating Civil Surgeon, Dr. Harvinder Singh SMO staff for the performance the Deputy Commissioner of Sha- Nawanshahr, Dr. Barinderpal Singh, Nodal Officer for the heed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Amit Kumar said that earlier the Kayakalp Programme, Nursing Sister Raj Rani, District district hospital has already qualified for the National Qual- Health Officer Dr. Kuldeep Rai, DMC Dr. Dyal Sarup. ity Assurance Certificate by ensuring a financial assistance The Health Minister hoped that the marvelous achieve- of Rs 10 lakh per annum for three consecutive years. ment would further encourage and motivate other district To celebrate this achievement and felicitate the staff, a hospitals of the State to achieve high standards under gala function organized at district hospital on January 4, Kayakalp Programme. He exhorted the Civil Surgeons to 2018, in which all the wings, started from sanitary and ensure proper implementation of parameters set under the cleanliness to wards, labour room, OT, OPD, IPD, Lab etc. Kayakalap Swach Bharat Abhiyan to maintain quality health honoured with certificates and mementos by the MLA care services. Patients’ satisfaction should be top most pri- Angad Singh Nawanshahr.

2 lakh relief for boxer Kaur Singh

hief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has sanc- this year, he had announced financial assistance of Rs. 2 tioned Rs 2 lakh from his relief fund to enable noted lakh for eminent Punjabi playwright and litterateur Ajmer boxerC Kaur Singh to repay the loan he had taken to meet his Aulakh who later succumbed to cancer. He had also come medical expenses. Captain Amarinder said he learnt about out with a financial reward and had provided a DSP position the legendary boxer’s financial plight from media reports to well-known woman cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur, after and wished him a speedy recovery, with long and healthy her scintillating performance in the ICC Women’s World life. His government, said Captain Amarinder, would do Cup 2017 in July. everything possible to help out Kaur Singh, whose contri- The Chief Minister had also personally intervened to di- bution to Indian boxing remains unparalleled. rect the Punjabi University Vice-Chancellor to immediately This is not the first time the Chief Minister has inter- sanction the necessary funds to enable its archers’ team to vened personally to help Punjab’s talented masters. In May participate in the World University Games 2017 in China.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 23 PUNJABIS OVERSEAS Gurbir nominated New Jersey AG

n a historic first, a distin- all New Jersey residents." guished Sikh public prosecu- Grewal, 44, is the prosecutor of torI "who has experienced hate and Bergen County, an important district intolerance first-hand" has been nom- across the river from New York city. inated to be the next attorney-general He was appointed to by the current of the US state of New Jersey. Republican Governor Chris Christie If Gurbir S. Grewal's nomination and that is likely to mute any opposi- by Democrat Governor-elect Phil tion in the senate. Murphy is approved by the State Sen- Symbolic of the public acceptance ate early next year, he will be the first of minorities despite scattered Sikh to assume the top state law en- incidents of bigotry, two Sikhs were forcement position in the United elected mayors last month, Ravi States and the second Indian-Ameri- Bhalla in Hoboken, New Jersey, can, after Kamala Harris, who held and Preet Didbal in Yuba City, Cali- the position in California before her fornia. election to the US Senate. Gurbir Grewal Vin Gopal, who became the first Announcing the nomination in the state capital, Trenton, Indian-American to be elected to the New Jersey State Sen- on Tuesday, Murphy said: "In light of all that is being ate last month, said that Grewal is someone "not only emi- thrown at us by the president, we need an attorney-general nently qualified, but who will bring a perspective to the unafraid to join our fellow states in using the law to protect office that is diverse and long-overdue."

Muktsar girl joins Australian Air Force

anjit Kaur (36) from Manjit Kaur said: “I always had Muktsar has been re- an urge to join paramedical services cruitedM as an aircraftwoman in the in the air force. I had a two-year medical wing of the Royal Aus- diploma in community services fol- tralian Air Force (RAAF). lowed by a diploma in paramedical She hails from a family of a science and a diploma in nursing marginal farmer of Bhala Sarya- from the Royal Air Force in New malwala village in Ferozepur. Man- South Wales; jit married Roop Singh Sandhu of “Much of my relevant experi- Muktsar in 2002. He is employed ence came from my job at a com- with the Australian government and munity welfare and disability centre drives a truck. in Brisbane; Manjit, along with her husband, “I completed my initial three- went to Australia on a study visa in month training with RAAF in 2009. At that time, she had two Wagga Wagga, NSW. It was really daughters. She got the PR in 2013. tough but it never came to my mind “Our maternal uncle, who re- that I made a wrong choice; tired as a Colonel from the Indian Manjit Kaur “The toughest part was the Army, was Manjit’s inspiration to physical fitness test, which is also serve the armed forces,” said Manjit’s brother Gursahib called ‘Beep Test’; Singh, an employee in the judicial courts of Gidderbaha. “We’re made to go through a war like environment. For She is very excited to take up her new role. Very soon, five days, our group was thrown into tough surviving con- she will be posted at one of the RAAF bases to perform the ditions in an area with very little food and sleep-deprived role of a paramedic for air evacuation and nursing services conditions. We had no shower-baths for those five days.”

24 Punjab Advance January - 2018 PUNJABIS OVERSEAS

First Sikh woman Mayor of US

reet Didbal has been ing,” Jaydeep Singh of the Sikh elected as the mayor of Coalition said. YubaP city in California, becoming The Sutter-Yuba region is the first Sikh woman to hold the po- home to one of the largest Sikh sition in the United States. communities in the country. On Dibal was appointed by the Cal- November 8, Bhalla became the ifornia city council and will be first ever Sikh mayor of New Jer- sworn in on December 5. There are sey’s Hoboken city after a stiff other Sikh mayors across the coun- competition that turned ugly try — Ravi Bhalla was elected ear- when he was labelled a terrorist in lier this month as mayor in slanderous flyers. Hoboken, New Jersey. However, Didbal's parents immigrated Didbal is the first Sikh woman to be to America from India's Punjab elected as a mayor in the country, the region in 1968 with the hope of report said. living the American dream and Didbal was elected to Yuba City building a better life for their chil- Council in 2014 and is currently vice Preet Didbal dren. Didbal wasn't born until mayor. She is the first in her family after her parents had immigrated. to graduate from college. In fact, she was born and raised in Yuba City, where her par- “Seeing someone that looks like you, that comes from ents settled and took jobs as farm labourers. "I feel very, the same faith as you, to be elected to a public office in this very connected with the community and with Yuba City, it country is inspiring and exciting. And it’s definitely mov- has given my family so much," she added.

‘Langar Sewa’ float at US parade

he annual Rose Pa- ues of Sikhism and the work rade held on New that we are doing to help our Year'sT Day in Pasadena, Califor- communities every day here in nia, for the past 129 years fea- California and across the tured a float depicting Sikh world". tradition of 'langar sewa' (com- Indeed, the Southern Cali- munity kitchen). fornia Sikh community's ac- Formally called the 'Tourna- tions stress on the importance ment of Roses', the parade at- of langar as they feed thou- tracted up to one million visitors sands of people across Los An- and was broadcast live across the geles every month. Singh US. The parade included several explains, "From the Khalsa colourful flower-covered floats, Food Pantry every Friday and one of these was the Sikh American float, being fea- evening to the monthly barbeques and visits to Skid Row, tured for the fourth consecutive year. we are constantly trying to bring langar to those most in The theme of the Sikh American float, langar, evokes need. We are excited as millions of Americans will learn the Sikh teachings of Sewa (selfless service). Elaborating more about this important aspect of Sikhism during the Rose on this, one of the many community members involved in Parade. The dishes include, chole, paneer, rice and gulab the project and responsible for the float's entry for the fourth jamun as sweet dish." year, Bhajneet Singh said: "Growing up in California, it was Taking inspiration from the world's largest free kitchen, the always a dream to see a Sikh float in the Tournament of float featured brick walls, a marbled dome roof and scalloped Roses Parade. The theme of langar really speaks of the val- arches to replicate those found at the Golden Temple, Amritsar.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 25 Happy Republic Day January 26 Lohri Greetings January 13 Reviving memories CM revives memories with NDA batch-mates

Capt Amarinder Singh mingles with his NDA batch-mates

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n a reunion that revived ties dinner on December 24. training for the defence services that went back nearly 58 Shedding distance and time, the and the years gone by. It also gave years,I Punjab Chief Minister Cap- 57 batch-mates of the Chief Minis- them an opportunity to catch up tain Amarinder Singh hosted his ter from NDA Khadakwasla came with each other’s lives since they batch-mates from the National De- together to recall shared memories last met, as they went on a spree of fence Academy (NDA) for a rare and experiences of their days of discovery about their years post

28 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Reviving memories their service stints. to wear the olive green, distinctly like this after 40 years was like a For a few hours, the men, who remembered the moment when, in dream come true for the men, who later went on to join different wings July 1959, he joined the George hoped this reunion would be a pre- of the Indian defence forces, were (now Delta) Squadron at NDA, lo- cursor to many more in the coming back to being the young boys who cated on the banks of the serene years. had committed themselves to the Lake Khadakwasla. As many of his The Chief Minister said he service of their motherland. It was batch mates pointed out, Captain would treasure the memory of this evident that their love for the de- Amarinder’s love for the Army had day for the rest of their life. It was, fence services, and for their coun- stood the test of time and remained for all of them, another experience try, still remained as strong as ever. at the heart of his fondest memo- to regale their grandchildren, or Having grown up seeing the ries. even their great grandchildren, he uniform, and enamoured with arms His batch mates remembered added. since his childhood, the Chief Min- Captain Amarinder as a distin- On the occasion, Captain ister said that joining the army and guished cadet, who captained the Amarinder released a book “Tryst serving the country was the only riding and polo team at NDA. Capt with Perfidy”, written by Lt Gen life he had dreamt and fantasized Amarinder Singh was commis- Kamal Davar, Former Chief of De- about. It was a sentiment that all his sioned into the Indian Army in fence Intelligence Agency. batch mates seemed to share, as 1963 and was posted to the 2nd Among those who joined the was evident from the memories of Battalion, the Sikh Regiment – a get-together were Lt-Gen GS Si- their defence life. Nearly six battalion in which his father and hota, Lt-Gen BM Kapur, Lt-Gen decades seemed to disappear as the grandfather had served with dis- Natarajan, Lt-Gen Kamal Dawar, 58 men talked animatedly about tinction before him. Air Vice Marshal Sisodia, Maj-Gen those days of stringent tests fol- For the Army man turned politi- MS Parmar, Lt-Gen Prakash Suri, lowed by some tough training, be- cian, as for his batch mates, this re- Lt-Gen Naryain Chatterjee, Com- fore they could don the uniform. union was a moment they would modore Nath and Maj-Gen Gurjeet Captain Amarinder, who chose always cherish. Coming together Singh Randhawa.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 29 Green initiative Green canopy of native trees Lakhewali village shows the way

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vast expanse of green canopy is what stands outA as one enters Lakhewali vil- lage in Sri Muktsar Sahib. This village has given a new meaning to tree plantation. Through a unique approach, it has pre- sented a great model to save na- tive trees which are fast becoming extinct. Chandni trees dot either side of village approach roads. Every house has a fruit tree, either guava or lemon. Amla, soanjana, curry and neem trees along with one among from guava, lemon and grape surround all tubewells. Bushes of fragrant flowers neu- tralise any odour emanating from the village’s solid waste man- agement. Community centres and religious places stand dis- tinct with the selection of trees and speak volumes about the ef- forts that have gone into revival of native trees. Thanks to environmentalist Dr Balwinder Singh Lakhewali and floriculturist Dr Brij Mohan Bhardwaj, Lakhewali village has Environmentalist Dr Balwinder Singh Lakhewali become a successful model for with the sapling of a native tree

30 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Green initiative

revival of native trees. The zeal oleoides), jand (Prosopis threat to several species. Dr shown by the Lakhewali pan- cineraria), kareer (Caparis de- Bhardwaj and Dr Lakhewali chahyat and youths has rubbed cidua), roheda (Tecomella undu- blame it on plantation drives that on to other villages to replicate lata, phulahi (Acacia modesta), have become target-oriented and the success. At Khosa Randhir malha ber (Ziziphus nummula- more of a political exercise. village in Moga district, a spe- ria) and hinjan (Balanites rox- In the number game, the techni- cial space has been earmarked burghii). Surprisingly, despite calities about the plantation, the for tree species native to the re- their numerous health benefits, selection of tree species and the gion. many species are fighting for follow-up after the plantation Unfortunately, once a familiar survival. are not only overlooked but wil- sight in Punjab, many tree “Health-oriented groups on so- fully ignored. The trees that species are on the verge of ex- cial media cannot stop raving once were a part of our cultural tinction. For instance, ‘lasora’ about the medicinal value of heritage hardly find any space in (Cordia dicotoma) this self-laudatory tree, which has Chandni trees dot either side of vil- spectacle, they amazing use from stress. kitchen to phar- lage approach roads. Every house has a In utter disregard to macy to agricul- fruit tree, either guava or lemon. Amla, the basics of select- ture, is not as easily soanjana, curry and neem trees along ing the best-suited visible as it used to species, tall trees be. Not so long with one among from guava, lemon and are planted on ago, this hardy tree grape surround all tubewells. Bushes of roadsides. No won- was a part of the fragrant flowers neutralise any odour der, you find these landscape of Pun- trees threatening to jab. Trees like Sita emanating from the village’s solid waste touch the overhead Ashoka (Saraca management. Community centres and electricity wires! asoca) and harshin- religious places stand distinct with the It is strange that a gar (nyctanthes long-lived tree arbor-tristis), asso- selection of trees and speak volumes species like Ji- ciated with Lord about the efforts that have gone into re- vapota (Putranjiva Krishna, are also vival of native trees. roxburghii) that is not being planted good for urban around. areas remain un- “Intensive agricultural activity, soanjana (Moringa oleifera). It derutilized, says Dr Bhardwaj. abysmal lack of knowledge and may be a surprise for them that Spacing too is of utmost impor- an apathetic attitude are respon- the tree was earlier found exten- tance. “Often the people get car- sible to a large extent for the sit- sively in Punjab. Its seeds yield ried away by the idea of planting uation,” says Dr Lakhewali, edible oil that is utilised in cos- ‘triveni’ i.e. neem, peepul and project director, ATMA (Agri- metic industry,” says Dr Bhard- banyan. These three species are cultural Technology Manage- waj. planted so close together that ment Agency). Interestingly, at a time when often the neem tree is strangu- Several tree species that are fac- there’s special emphasis on lated by the peepul and banyan ing a steep decline in their num- planting more trees and con- trees. Finally, only the banyan bers include peelu (Salvadora serving environment, there is a tree remains intact!” he adds.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 31 Ration shops go hi-tech · Biometric system launched in Mohali · All districts to be covered by March31

BUREAU REPORT

he ration from government eficiaries will not have to bring their tributed to the beneficiaries. Each ben- ration depots of the state ration cards. They will have to tell eficiary gets wheat at Rs 2 per kg and willT be distributed through the bio- their Aadhaar card numbers and give 5 kg per month to each member of metric system from now on. This their finger print. family. 30 kilograms of wheat (for six would not only make the whole pub- The biometric system for public months) is given to each beneficiary. lic distribution system more efficient, distribution system is expected to be but would also bring in more trans- implemented in all the districts of the On this occasion, he also checked the parency. state by March 31. Mr Sinha said in quality of wheat and showed These were the words of Mr view of the complaints from the bene- satisfaction. K.A.P. Sinha, Principal Secretary, ficiaries that they were not getting DFSC Mrs Harjit Kaur informed Food & Civil Supplies, while inaugu- wheat on time or the ration going to that in SAS Nagar district, there are rating this pilot project from a govern- fake beneficiaries, this biometric sys- 264 government ration depots and ment ration depot in Phase-11, tem had been introduced to bring com- around 99000 card holders of Atta-Dal Mohali. On this occasion, wheat was plete transparency in the public distributed to the Atta-Dal beneficiar- distribution system. scheme and 3.73 lakh beneficiaries. ies through the biometric system. There are around 17000 govern- Every six months, these beneficiaries SAS Nagar district has been cho- ment ration depots in Punjab, from are given 11,218 MT of wheat at Rs 2 sen for this pilot project. Now the ben- where 8.70 lakh MT of wheat is dis- per kg.

32 Punjab Advance January - 2018 PGI sets record in robotic surgeries

BUREAU REPORT he PGI (Post Graduate In- Robotic surgery is easy for the op- try to conduct Pediatric Robotic Sur- stitute of Medical Educa- erating doctor as he can manoeuvre the gery. Yes, in August, doctors of the pe- tionT and Research) has entered the instruments using the robotic arms and diatric department carried out a record books by carrying out the high- approach any deep-seated organ. "It is successful surgery on an 11-year old est number of robotic surgeries in the basically meant for cancers at an early child who was suffering from kidney country in kidney cancer cases and in stage. The Da Vinci — a robot — is not obstruction. The child hails from a vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) — a re- meant for every surgery. There must be farmer's family in Ludhiana and had constructive surgery where an abnor- some guidelines for such surgeries," been suffering from the problem for mal passage leads from bladder to the said Dr Singh. the last four years. The team of doctors vagina. Affordability is one of the main was headed by Prof. Ram Samujh, the According to institute records 984 reasons for the huge number of cases head of pediatric surgery. robotic-assisted surgeries have been for robotic surgery. PGI charges Rs Guided by Prof. Samujh, others performed in various departments of 30,000 for general ward patient for the members of the team who accom- the institute since 2014. operation, while a private hospital "We have recently documented that might charge Rs 1 lakh. plished this task were Dr. Ravi Kano- our department is leading nationally in "We have patients coming from jia, Dr. Monika Bawa, Dr. Ravi robotic-assisted cases, where we save known corporate hospitals in New Mohan, Dr. Neeru Sahni (anaesthesia the kidney which is diseased (tumour Delhi. Also, we have a huge pool of pa- in charge) and Dr. Vineet Binu. or any other abnormality). Also, we are tients who have been operated within After the success of this case, the globally competing in VVF recon- two to four weeks," said Dr Singh. team now looks forward to offering structive surgeries," said Dr S.K. About four months back, the PGI this new facility from PGIMER to the Singh, professor, department of scored another first when it became the patients who come here looking for pe- urology, PGI. first government hospital in the coun- diatric surgery.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 33 Career n Competition

A job in social media

BUREAU REPORT f you consume a lot of content on Twitter, Facebook tion. Social media managers are responsible for all aspects and more, a social media career might be right for of social media campaigns. You’ll take care of the strategy, you.I After all, you’ve already put in the time as a digital na- implementation, and marketing. tive. Now, you might as well get paid for it. The key is to If you work for a small business, expect to wear a lot of match your skill set and salary needs with the right social hats with this position. You will be the resident strategist one media job. minute, and the next minute you’ll be putting that strategy Then, you’ll get paid to do something you love. Here are into action. If you work for a big company, though, you can certain social media jobs that might be right for you: expect to have some employees under you. These employ- 1. Social Media Manager ees will take on most of the duties and you’ll watch over Are you the type of person that likes to be in charge? If them. so, you might be perfect for a social media manager posi- Social media managers make an annual median salary

34 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Career n Competition

of $46,169 and there is a projected growth outlook of 13%. analyst. In other words, you can expect lots of these jobs to pop up Social media analysts make an average of $45,720 a in the coming years. year. 2. Social Media Specialist 5. Social Media Community Manager If you excel at strategizing but don’t want all of the re- sponsibilities that come with being a social media manager, Do you spend a lot of time interacting with people (even you can become a social media specialist. Social media spe- strangers) online? If so, you might have the perfect person- cialists are responsible for developing strategies to meet ality to become a social media community manager. This companies’ and clients’ social media needs. fast-paced job puts you right in the middle of the online ac- Don’t worry, though. It’s not all work and no play. You’ll tion. You answer questions, join conversations, and offer so- also immerse yourself in social media posts. In fact, you’ll need to monitor all of the social media conversations to de- lutions. termine which direction your company should go in when In some cases, you’ll even have to get conversations posting on social media. On average, social media special- started. You’ll be the spark that ignites exciting conversa- ists make $38,100. tions on all of the channels. When you do this, you have to 3. Social Media Coordinator keep your company’s brand in mind. Every conversation As a coordinator, you’ll be responsible for making sure that all of the posts go live every day. You can’t just post on should focus on the brand and improving the user experi- a whim, though. You’ll follow a posting calendar for all of ence. the social media accounts. Message relevancy is very im- Social media community managers make an average of portant for social media coordinators. You’ll speak to peo- $31,500 a year. ple in all of your company’s departments to make sure 6. Social Media Planners you’re staying on message with each post. A social media coordinator has a median salary of If you have a knack for advertising, you might be inter- $37,865and it has a projected growth rate of 6% up to 2024. ested in becoming a social media planner. As a planner, it 4. Social Media Analyst will be up to you to find a way to advertise a product or If you like the numbers side of social media, consider brand across social channels. You’ll have to allocate the becoming a social media analyst. You’ll look at various met- budget and make the best advertising purchases for your rics and trends to help your team cultivate a social media strategy. Keep in mind that analytics are constantly chang- company or clients. ing so you’ll need to keep your hands on the wheel at all You’ll make an average of $45,000 a year if you take a times. You can expect a fast-paced career if you become an job as a social media planner.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 35 Career n Competition

NATIONALCurren Blanket ban on plastic items prevent pollution of the Ganga. The up a not-for-profit Company under Sec- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) green panel order comes while it was tion 8 of the Companies Act, 2013 as has imposed complete blanket ban on hearing a plea of environmentalist MC Managing Company of proposed univer- use, sale, purchase and storage of plastic Mehta. The NGT also imposed Rs 5,000 sity. The company will provide financial fine on those violating order and also and infrastructural support to the univer- held that action will be taken against sity and appoint Chancellor and Pro- erring officials too. It passed the direc- Chancellor of the university. tion after noting that despite its earlier Methanol Economy Fund order, plastic was being used in these The National Institution for Trans- areas causing pollution to the holy river. forming India (NITI) Aayog is planning National Rail University to set up Methanol Economy Fund worth The Union Cabinet has approved Rs 4,000-5,000 crore to promote pro- proposal of the Ministry of Railways to duction and use of the clean fuel.The set up the first National Rail and Trans- fund will be utilized for generation of port University (NRTU) in Vadodara to cheaper, safer and pollution free skill its human resources and build capa- methanol fuel by converting high ash bility.The University will be set up as content coal and stranded gas assets into Deemed to Be University under de novo methanol. NITI expects that two plants items such as carry bags, plates and category as per UGC (Institutions can be commissioned in the next 3-4 spoons in towns of Haridwar and Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, years. The first coal-based methanol Rishikesh till upper areas of Uttarkashi 2016. The first academic programme is plant will be set up in West Bengal by along the Ganga River in Uttarak- expected to be launched in July world’s largest coal miner Coal India Ltd hand.The move was taken to tackle and 2018.The Ministry of Railways will set (CIL).

PUNJAB Cong sweeps civic polls 189 wards in the three municipal corpo- environmental impacts arising from stub- The Congress party has swept the three rations followed by BJP with 14, SAD ble burning. It will be implemented fol- municipal corporation polls - Amritsar, with 11, while ten were won by inde- lowing a phased approach.The first Jalandhar and Patiala.Congress swept the pendents. In the municipal council and phase of the project was approved for P a t i a l a nagar panchayat polls, the Congress won munici- from 267 places as against 37 by SAD, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Ra- pal cor- 15 by BJP, 94 by Independents. jasthan at cost of approximately Rs. 100 poration Project to tackle stubble burning crore. winning The Union Environment Ministry has Deaf-mute Pak boy repatriated 59 wards approved regional project on ‘Climate A 12-year-old deaf-mute Pakistani boy, while the Resilience Building among Farmers opposi- through Crop Residue Management’ who had strayed into the Indian territory t i o n under National Adaptation Fund for Cli- about seven months ago, has been repa- failed to mate Change (NAFCC).The project was triated. Hasnain was kept in an observa- open ac- approved at a meeting of National Steer- tion home in Punjab's Faridkot district count. In ing Committee on Climate Change after he had inadvertently crossed over Jalandhar, 66 wards fell into the Con- (NSCCC) held in New Delhi under the to the Indian side of the border in May gress's kitty followed by BJP (8) and chairmanship of Secretary, Environment SAD (4). In Amritsar, Congress won 64, Ministry. The project aims at mitigating 2017. A Rs 20 Pakistani currency note SAD 7, BJP 6 and 8 wards went to the climate change impacts and enhancing was recovered from him. He was repa- independents. Overall, the Congress won adaptive capacity and counter adverse triated through the Attari-Wagah Border.

36 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Career n Competition

EventsINTERNATIONAL NASA discovers 8th planet scope. The award was received by Beatrice The National Aeronautics and Space Lanka hands over port to China Fihn, leader of ICAN and Hiroshima nu- Administration (NASA) has discovered Sri Lanka has formally handed over clear bombing survivor Setsuko Thur- eighth planet circling Kepler-90, a Sun- its southern strategic port of Hambantota low.ICAN, a coalition of 468 grassroots like star which is 2545 light-years far to China on 99-year lease. Two Chinese non-governmental groups has been in firms managed by China Merchants Port forefront of pushing for end to use of nu- Holdings Company (CMPort) and Sri Lanka Ports Authority will own port and clear weapons through United Nations the investment zone around it.Hamban- Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear tota port is strategically located right in Weapons adopted by 122 nations in July middle of vital energy supply lines in In- 2017. dian Ocean, connecting Middle East and Gabon is polio-free East Asia. It had gained strategic signif- The World Health Organization icance after the Sri Lankan government (WHO) has declared Gabon a “polio-free had decided to build massive deep-sea country”. This comes after lack of new from Earth. It was dubbed as Kepler- port and airport with huge Chinese loans. reported or suspected cases in the central 90i.The eight planet was discovered by Nobel Peace Prize for ICAN Researchers Christopher Shallue and An- The Geneva-based International African country in recent times. But the drew Vanderburg by applying Google’s Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons UN health agency has recommended tak- machine-learning technology to data col- (ICAN) received the 2017 Nobel Peace ing necessary steps to continue monitor- lected by NASA’s Kepler Space Tele- Prize at ceremony held in Oslo, Norway. ing for possible signs of the disease.

SPORTS Ritu Phogat wins silver medal but lost in the bronze medal bout. to win the medal at the Championships. India’s Ritu Phogat has won Silver Ritu Phogat is an Indian female wrestler She is only second Indian weightlifter medal in Under-23 Senior World from Haryana. She is one of the three after Karnam Malleswari to achieve this W r e s t l i n g Phogat sisters from Haryana. Her sisters feat. Olympic bronze medallist Karnam held in Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari, as well Malleshwari had won the top prize in Poland. She as cousin Vinesh Phogat, have estab- worlds twice in 1994 and 1995. won silver lished themselves as world-class Ronaldo is world player of the year medal in 48 wrestlers. Real Madrid and Portugal superstar kg cate- Saikhom lifts new world record Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded the 2017 gory.She en- India’s Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won Ballon d’Or (Golden Ball) for world tered the the gold medal at the World Weightlift- player of the year in Paris, France for the final by de- ing Championships held in Anaheim, feating Bul- United States. She achieved this feat by fifth time. With this he equals record of g a r i a n lifting a new world record of 194kg -- his great Barcelona rival Lionel Messi. wrestler Selishka in the quarter-finals 85kg snatch and 109kg clean-and-jerk-- Earlier Ronaldo had won Ballon d’Or in and Chinese wrestler Jiang Zhu in the in the 48 kg weight category. Thailand’s 2008, 2013, 2014 and 2016.In this year’s semi-finals. In the gold medal bout (in Sukcharoen Thunya won silver medal Ballon d’Or Award competition, Lionel the final match), she lost to Turkish with a total lift of 193, while Segura Ana Messi came second while Paris’ Neymar wrestler Evin Demirhan to finish with a Iris won the bronze medal with 182kg Jr, came third, Italian goalkeeper Gian- silver medal. Another young Indian lift.With this victory, Mirabai Chanu be- luigi Buffon finished fourth and Luka wrestler, Divya Kakran, came close to a came the first Indian in over two decades Modric came fifth.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 37 Tribute Shashi Kapoor—the first cross-over star At home in both off-beat and commercial roles

Devinder Bir Kaur

harming, flirtatious with that the top slot in Hindi cinema, but that age of 79 on December 4, was the the crooked impish smile that did not bother him the least. He was first cross-over star who straddled madeC girls go weak in the knees. That happy playing the game by his own both the Hindi and English film indus- was Shashi Kapoor, the youngest of rules, doing off-beat films interspersed tries and made an indelible mark on the three brothers after Raj Kapoor with commercial ventures. both. and Shammi Kapoor. He never reached Shashi Kapoor, who died at the He was bitten by the acting bug at

38 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Tribute the tender age of six. His father, the legendary Prithviraj Kapoor, was running a touring theatre which gave Shashi Sonia, an admirer of Shashi Kapoor ample opportunities to perform on stage. However when Prithvi theatres closed down in 1960, Shashi shifted to act in his father-in-law’s Shakespearana. But when that too moved out of India, the only career left for him was cin- ema. His first film as a hero was ‘Char Diwari’ opposite Nanda in 1960. Earlier he had played the younger version of Raj Kapoor’s characters in ‘Aag’ and ‘Awara’. Although his subsequent films ‘Prem Patra’ and ‘Mehndi Lage Mere Haath Re’ did reasonably well, the media labeled him a flop hero. Yet he continued getting roles. In 1965 his luck turned when his film ‘Jab Jab Phool Khile’ with Nanda became a hit. He went on to do 100 films. He reigned supreme in the ’70s and early ’80s. His hit films included ‘Chor Machaye Shor’, ‘Sharmilee’, ‘Deewar’, Kabhi Kabhie’, ‘Trishul’, ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’, ‘Kaala Pathar’, ‘Shaan’ Namak Ha- laaal’ etc. He made a hit ‘jodi’ with Amitabh Bachchan and did several films together. Shashi Kapoor was one of the first cross-over stars to In a condolence letter to Shashi Kapoor’s daugh- feature in British and and American films like Merchant ter, Sanjana Kapoor, Sonia Gandhi has said she has Ivory productions’ ‘Householder’, ‘Shakespearwala’, been an admirer of the late actor ever since she first ‘Bombay Talkies’, ‘Heat and Dust’ and ‘In Custody’. His saw his film "Shakespearewallah" in 1966. Hollywood films included ‘Pretty Polly’, ‘Siddarth’ and The following is the full text of the letter: I am ‘Sammy and Rosie Get Laid’. deeply saddened by the news of your beloved father's Shashi Kapoor set up his own production house, Film- passing away. I have been an admirer of Shashi valas, in 1978, and made critically-acclaimed films. This Kapoor ever since the first film of his I saw, 'Shake- commercial cine star then dabbled in off-beat cinema under spearewallah', I think it was in 1966, in England. this banner and produced gems like ‘Junoon’, ‘Kalyug’, ’36 It was a memorable experience, not just for the Chowringee Lane’, ‘Vijeta’ and ‘Utsav’. beauty and grace of his acting, but because Rajiv took Shashi Kapoor also won the National Award for ‘New me to see it. Delhi Times’. His only regret was that Jennifer was not alive Since then, I have seen many of his films. How to witness event. versatile he was as an actor, fitting so seamlessly into Shashi Kapoor once cchose the following 10 films span- the wide variety of roles he took on, whether in main- ning decades of entertainment as his favourites: stream cinema or in smaller art films. ‘Aawara’ (1951): Villain K . N. Singh is convicted by That was his great gift, to make his art appear ef- Judge Prithviraj Kapoor for theft simply because his father fortless when in fact each performance was the result had been a thief. To prove a point, he kidnaps the Judge’s of tremendous hard work, professionalism and sensi- son and initials him into the world of crime. The boy, played tivity. by Shashi Kapoor, grows up to be a petty thief (Raj Shashi Kapoor has left a lasting legacy in some Kapoor). After an engrossing court drama where Raj is de- wonderful classic films, and in the Prithvi Theatre fended by his lady love (lawyer Nargis), Prithviraj Kapoor which he passionately recreated. learns that Raj is his own son. He finally acknowledges that Your father was a person of enormous charm and it is not blood but the environment that makes a man what warmth that came straight from his heart. At this time he is. Shashi Kapoor’s role of a juvenile delinquent was en- of grief, my thoughts are with you - I hope you draw dearing. solace from the love and devotion you and your broth- ‘Prem Patra (1962): Sadhana mistakenly accuses her ers gave to your father and from the wonderful mem- college mate Shashi Kapoor of writing love letters to ories of him which remain with you. her.Shashi is thrown out of college. He goes abroad to pur- I send you and your family my deep felt condo- sue studies. Meanwhile his parents fix his marriage with lences. Nazeema, who loves someone else. When Sadhana discov-

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 39 Tribute ers her mistake, she daughter of Wa- takes to writing let- heeda Rehman who ter to Shashi on is now Amitabh’s Nazeema’s behalf. wife. Shashi falls for it, Shashi could but then in an acci- have been shown as dent in the lab he a villain, but he is loses his eyesight the understanding and returns to India. husband. The film Sadhana looks after was known for the him posing as beautiful songs and Nazeema. But now the typical Yash Nazeema too wants Chopra style of Shashi and therein drama. lies the dilemma. ‘ J u n o o n ’ ‘Jab Jab Phool (1979): The story Khile’ (1965): This set against the 1857 was a lyrical love mutiny, is about a story between a man’s obsession for Kashmiri house- an Anglo-Indian boat owner (Shashi girl Ruth, played by Kapoor) and the Nafisa Ali. Shashi rich memsaab Kapoor as the man (Nanda). His Shashi Kapoor with wife Jennifer Kendal with the Junoon, snooty father gives shelter to agrees to their mar- ten and Shashi revives her with body Ruth and her riage only if she can turn him into a heat. She gets pregnant and the two de- mother, played by Jennifer Kapoor. He sophisticate. A difficult task, she man- cide to get married. But her father sep- wants to marry Ruth but faces stiff op- ages to only change his attire, but not arates them. He wants her to marry a position from his wife Shabana Azmi. his attitudes and beliefs. Her socializ- rich doctor, played by Shatrughan Ruth too responds to his emotions, but ing with men is not acceptable to him. Sinha. After several twists and turns it is too late. He returns to the valley only to be fol- the film ends on a happy note. ‘Kalyug’ (1981): It is a modern- lowed by Nanda. ‘Deewar’ (1975): The classic film day ‘mahabharat’ between two warring ‘Ek that gul aur ek this bul bul..’ was about two brothers Shashi Kapoor industrial families. Shashi Kapoor and ‘Yeh samaa, samaa hai ye pyar (cop) and Amitabh Bachchan (don), plays the illegitimate son Karan. ka..’are hummed even today. who both hanker for the larger-than- Shyam Benegal has directed the epic ‘Haseena Maan Jayegi (1968): life mother’s love. The mother, played beautiful. This was Shashi Kapoor’s double-role by Nirupa Roy, stands by her upright ‘Heat and Dust’: Julie Christie drama. The two lookalikes, Kamal and son Shashi Kapoor. Amitabh dies crav- comes to India seeking details about Rakesh, fall for the same girl, Rita ing for her love. the life of her grand-mother’s sister (Babita). But Rita prefers the class top- The movie is still remembered for Greta in the 1920s. Julie believes she per but orphan Kamal and marries him. the temple scene, wherein Amitabh ac- is Greta in reincarnate form. The old Kamal and Rakesh enlist for the war, cuses God and the punch-line Shashi tale is unraveled through her Indian but only one returns to Rita. The ques- makes: “Mere paas maa hai” sojourn. Like Greta, who falls in love tion whether he is Kamal or Rakesh ‘Kabhi Kabhie’ (1976): A Yash with the pompous Indian prince Shashi gets solved only in court. The movie Chopra delight. It begins with the love- Kapoor, Julie also gets involved with was liked by youngsters. pairing of Amitabh Bachchan and an Indian played by Zakir Hussain. ‘Aa Gale Lag Ja (1973): The film Rakhee. But their love is doomed as The film from the Ivory-Merchant is about a small-town boy played by Rakhee marries Shashi Kapoor under pair, had some excellent Shashi Kapoor, who falls in love with parental pressure. The scene then shifts characterisation. a city-bred girl Sharmila Tagore in the to the younger generation—Rishi snow-capped hills of Shimla. In an un- Kapoor, who plays Rakhee’s son, and The writer is a former usual incident Sharmila gets frost-bit- Neetu Singh, who is the illegitimate Deputy News Editor of The Tribune

40 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Tribute

From Amitabh Bachchan’s blog

Amitabh Bachchan took a walk his voice – most endearing and The next .. was his semi-curly down memory lane and shared an comforting to the one he was intro- hair on head, falling carelessly over emotional letter on his blog. Pen- duced to. The self introduction his forehead and ears, not quite cov- ning down some of his dearest habit, was a gem. The one being in- ering it .. and my upper story mum- memories with Shashi Kapoor, troduced to, was, quite obviously, bled again : ‘hey ! maybe you Bachchan remembers the times he prompted to say his or her name as should think of covering your ears met the actor at parties, he himself well, when they heard his. It was a as well ..’ … and off I went to just starting out in the industry back remarkable tool to come to know Hakim the hair dresser at Taj Hotel then. the other person’s name .. and .. if with my plan .. and executed, it re- “ Shashi Kapoor !” was what and when there was to be another mained till date .. one heard as he extended a warm meeting after many forgettable Ending the letter on a bitter- soft hand out to you in introduction years, the same technology was ; that devastating smile compli- most helpful in remembering the sweet note, Bachchan recalls the menting the twinkle in his eyes. He other person’s name, in case you nickname Shashi Kapoor had given needn’t have done so. Every one had forgotten it ...!! him: knew him. But this was his infec- In the post, Bachchan also talks He fondly addressed me as tious humble self. When he spoke, about how Kapoor actually inspired ‘babbua’ .. and with him have gone there was a mischievous, gentle, al- the hairstyle he’s sported through many incredible unread chapters of most inaudible, delicate, yodel, in most of his career: his and my life ..

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 41 Films Gippy Grewal sheds, gains weight for biopic on war hero

Subedar Joginder Singh sacrificed his life for the nation in the 1962 war

Gippy Grewal enacts role of Subedar Joginder Singh (inset) in a Punjabi biopic

BUREAU REPORT

opular singer-actor Gippy has nailed it in with a stellar perform- Gippy’s transformation to get into the Grewal has undergone com- ance. skin of the character will have his fans pleteP transformation to enact the role The actor took to Instagram to re- waiting for the release of this film. He of Subedar Joginder Singh in a war veal the first look of the film with a even performed most of the stunts that biopic on the life and valour of the heartwarming message that read, "Mai were essential for the movie. 1962 India-China War hero who was iss layak nahi, par tuhade pyar da The film is set for a global release awarded the Param Vir Chakra sadka, mai apni jaan la ti iss mahaan on April 6,2018. Apart from Punjabi, (posthumously), India's highest atma ke kirdaar nu nibhaun vaaste." the film will also release in Hindi, wartime gallantry award. To essay, the character with perfec- Tamil and Telugu. The first look of the film has been tion Gippy underwent rigorous train- Subedar Joginder Singh has been released and by the looks of it, Gippy ing and gained and lost weight. shot in locations like Kargil & Dras,

42 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Films

Rajasthan and Assam to maintain the authenticity of the project. Joginder Singh served the country when we were struggling to gain our independence.He was recruited into the First Battalion of the Sikh Regi- ment in 1936. He served the British Indian Army and after independence the Indian Army. It was during the Indo-China battle of 1962 that Subedar Joginder Singh sacrificed his life for the nation. The film also features Guggu Gill, Kulwinder Billa, Aditi Sharma, Rajvir Jawanda, Roshan Prince, Karamjit Anmol and Sardar Sohi in prominent characters. 'Subedar Joginder Singh' is pro- duced by Seven Colors Motion Pic- tures in association with Saga Music and Unisys Infosolutions. It is directed by Simerjit Singh and will be released in 2018. Talking about the biopic, Gippy his formal education due to his finan- ine the kind of fight those few warriors said: “I wasn’t even aware of this son cial background. would put up. of our soil till I was offered the biopic. In 1936, on his 15th birthday, he Joginder Singh did not order fire The script moved me. After the first enrolled in the 1st Batallion of the Sikh until the opponents came on clear narration, I decided to read up on him. Regiment under the then British gov- range; he risked the distance to save I felt embarrassed that I didn’t know ernment. In a span of 12 years, he had anything about this national hero, who already fought in two wars; the Second the little ammunition they had. He hails from Punjab. After reading all the World War on the Burma front, and the managed to destroy the first wave of at- information about him, I was deter- war against the Pakistani militia at the tack, but lost have of his men and even mined to do the film. time of independence in Srinagar, suffered a gunshot wound in the thigh. “It’s a challenging role — to begin Kashmir. Veteran by experience in a Dangerously outnumbered Joginder with, I have to lose 10 kilos and then very young age, Subedar Joginder Singh chose sure death defending the gain 25 kilos to look the part. Also, it’s Singh fought his last battle in the Sino- IB ridge, unwilling to give Tawang’s history that we’re delving into, so, we Indian war of 1962. access to the Chinese. His gallant have to be doubly careful about the The Chinese army proceeded to choice instilled spark in the few re- facts and the way we present it. It’s a Tawang, through the Bum-la axis. The massive responsibility to blend in the Tawang post was strategically very im- maining soldiers who shouted “Jo right amount of emotions, especially portant to the north-east frontier. To de- Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal!” because of the current state of affairs fend it, Subedar Singh had to proceed After four hours of refusing to sub- in the sub-continent.” with an inadequate and small platoon mit and single-handedly killing 50 op- The film, which will highlight the of 20 men under him in Sikh Regi- ponent soldiers, Joginder Singh was situation at the borders and the sacri- ment. They studied the terrain, build- captured and taken as a prisoner of fices made by our soldiers, is against ing bunkers and trenches in a war. All of his fellow fighters were the backdrop of the 1962 Sino-Indian combined strategic network, braving dead by then, except three people who war. The biopic also gains significance the physically-numbing cold without fell back under the Subedar’s orders to as it comes during the Doklam standoff any special resource or winter gear. between India and China. The Chinese attacked in three bring more ammunition. Born on September 28, 1921, in a waves on October 23, hoping to blast Subedar Joginder Singh suc- poor family living near Moga, Punjab, through the handful or soldiers that cumbed to the injuries under Chinese Joginder Singh was unable to complete were posted. But they could not imag- imprisonment.

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 43 Health Workout in winter

Dr.Ravinder Chadha

hysical activity and exer- body’s ability to produce and retain prone to frostbites/chilblains. The cise are more important heat, the body temperature falls effected are becomes painful, red, duringP winter, yet less frequently below 95 degrees F, which sets in swollen and may cause itching. The undertaken. Generally people take Hypothermia, a life-threatening treatment includes warming, drying in extra calories during winter, stay condition. Important signs are the effected part and wearing indoors don’t follow a healthy ex- headache, confusion and altered proper clothes followed by exercis- ercise routine thereby gaining consciousness. ing the affected part to promote cir- weight. Undertaking regular exer- Physiologically the body tem- culation. cises not only burn calories pro- perature increases during the sum- Excessive alcohol consumption ducing heat, but also release mer season so the blood vessels leads to heat loss thereby acceler- Endorphin—a mood-enhancing dilate removing excess heat from ating chances of cold injuries. Al- hormone. the body. cohol also leads to dehydration, Cold weather leads to lowering In winter when the body tem- impairment of judgment and de- of body temperature resulting in perature decreases, blood vessels of crease in sensation, thus making an impaired performance and cold in- the arms and legs constrict in order alcoholic more vulnerable to cold juries. During intense cold when to avoid heat loss. Therefore hands injuries. the body heat loss exceeds the and feet become cold making them Physical activity helps in pro-

44 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Health tection against heart diseases but at avoid frostbite due to evaporation relaxes the muscles. times vigorous exercises in cold of perspiration. Finger extention: Place a rub- weather can lead to a raised blood 4. Cool air does not freeze ber band around all five finger tips, pressure, raised heart rate in people your lungs. In fact, by the time in- now spread fingers till you feel the suffering from heart diseases. Such haled air reaches the lungs it attains pain. individuals should undertake exer- body temperature. Therefore it is Wrist roll: Make a fist and roll cises during midday instead of not necessary to cover mouth and the hands at wrist joint internally early morning or late evening when nose during winter. and externally 10 times. the temperature is comparatively Exercise programme: Exer- Foot exercises low. cise increases stamina, elevates the Toe taps: Keeping heel on the Useful tips to enjoy exercising mood and brings in a feeling of during winter: wellbeing. Exercise may not neces- 1. Do listen to your body. sarily be strenuous, a 30-minute Take a break when your body feels workout is sufficient. fatigued, shortness of breath, dis- Warm-up exercises should be

comfort in the chest, nausea, dizzi- done to get the body accustomed to floor lift all toes off the floor. Tap ness or headache. vigorous activity in the cold. The only big toe to the floor, while 2. It is advisable to regulate warm-up can be done indoors on a keeping the rest in the air, alternate your body temperature with the stationary bicycle, jogging on by keeping big toe in the air and tap help of clothing. Wear 2-3 layers of treadmill, stair climbing, on the the other four toes. light clothing instead of one heavy spot walking, knee-bends, push- Towel curls: Place small towel layer: Closest to your skin wear a ups etc. on the floor and curl it repeatedly vest or thermal, preferably made of Winter effects mainly the hands using toes. polypropylene, which draws the and feet. There is pain and stiffness Avoiding physical workout dur- sweat away from the body. Cotton of the joints, causing difficulty in ing winters can lead to various material is not good as it absorbs writing, grasping, buttoning-up medical problems. Therefore and and holds moisture close to the shirt. Morning stiffness is due to individual must undertake physical body; Second layer should provide muscle spasm/shortening. activities, wear suitable clothes and good insulation; Third layer should follow safety guidelines, thus mak- be of fabric which is wind-proof, Hand exercises ing it an enjoyable occasion. water-proof that can be taken off if Finger-flutter exercise: While temperature increases. sitting on a chair drop the hands to Dr Ravinder Chadha is a 3. The direction of the wind the side of the body. Relaxing arms, former physio-therapist of should be towards the face while move the arms while shaking hand the Indian cricket team starting outdoor workout and at the and fingers. This not only increases E-mail: [email protected] back while coming back so as to the circulation of the hand but also (Tel—0172 2702929)

January - 2018 Punjab Advance 45 Children’s world

Hi kids, ejoice, all you little ones. For a whole R new year is coming again. And I am sure it will bring new opportunities, new dreams, fun- filled new days...and what not? To step up your joys manifold, I will try to bring you fresh ideas to increase your new year celebrations. But what about setting new goals for 2018. That will keep you focused in achieving them. I Having New Year resolutions is like setting a mean kids why not start setting new year resolu- goal and trying to achieve it. It will also help you tions. in developing the important skill of goal-getting. A friend of mine makes a number of resolu- Setting New Year resolutions will teach you the tions every year, only to break them in the very importance of setting goals and achieving them. first month. But his eight-year-old son is made of If this habit is inculcated in childhood itself, it a different stuff. Last year he made three resolu- proves very beneficial in adulthood too. tions and fulfilled all of them. That shows the kid Sorry, kids for the sermonising, but honestly it is goal-oriented. will help you in the long run. Maybe you will turn As adults we make a big announcement about out to be better adults, focussed in life. You could the resolutions we will definitely follow, but what start by preparing a calendar of events for 2018. about you, kids. Dont forget setting new year res- Wishing you a very happy New Year. olutions it will help you in the long run. You All the best and keep smiling… should learn how to become organised and effi- cient early in your lives. Uncle Don Try these resolutions for 2018 1. Good hygiene is a must. Children must learn to brush 4. Children should be encouraged to behave well and with their teeth twice a day, in the morning and before going to respect to parents and other elders. They should make it a bed at night. The mouth should be rinsed after every meal. point to not talk rudely or unkindly with parents. Children Nails must be cut and kept clean. Hands should be washed should not use curse words or speak bad about God. after coming home from outside and after going to the bathroom. 5. Children must learn to keep their things neat and tidy. 2. Spending excessive time playing video games and watch- Children must do their own bed and keep their blankets in ing television is also unhealthy. Spending too much time in- the proper place. After playing, toys should be kept back doors can lead to becoming overweight. where they belong and not scattered about here and there.If 3. Children tend to consume too much of junk food, sodas it is a single parent household, children must be taught to and other soft drinks. A good and healthy New Year resolu- help the parent a little in household work. tion would be to cut down on junk food and develop healthy 6. Children who are always late must learn to practice punc- eating habits. Instead tuality. Children must always try to reach school on time.

46 Punjab Advance January - 2018 Children’s world Chimps are the smartest

he next time someone calls you an ape or a bird brain, askT her to think again. Brain scans of animals have revealed similar patterns of electrical activity in human and an- imal brains, so obviously humans aren’t the only smart ones around. The brainiest animals are chim- panzees, which share 99 per cent of the human deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA as it is known. (DNA is a chain of mol- ecules within the nucleus of a cell that have all the genetic information influ- encing the characteristics we inherit from our parents.) It has long been known that mon- keys and chimps are very smart. For in- stance, if food is placed outside a monkey’s cage on a piece of cloth, the monkey immediately understands that it must pull at the cloth to get the food. Chimps are even more intelligent. Scientists have observed them sharp- ening rocks in order to crack open co- their feathered pals. These birds can be you are going to do. For instance, have conuts and shells. No wonder chimps taught how to name and identify ob- you ever noticed how your dog starts have even been taught sign language to jects, besides being taught how to pawing the door the moment you wear express themselves. count. your shoes? Chimps may be the brainiest of the Many other species, including dol- Dogs have also been known to go lot, but talking birds are not far behind. And even among the kind that just war- phins, whales, elephants and crows into a state of frenzy just before their ble, the birds with really intricate show intelligence, but not much is owner has an epileptic seizure. How courtship songs have bigger brains known about these animals. Unlike and why a dog senses this subtle shift than their note-poor rivals. It took ex- apes and talking birds, scientists in its master’s health is still a matter of perts (with state-of-the-art computers) haven’t studied other species quite as debate. However, German scientists almost three hours to distinguish a closely. claim that apart from noticing what we male bird singing 40 notes, from an- Again, it is a known fact that dogs are doing, dogs also sense small other bird singing 38 notes. Female are perceptive animals and aware of changes in our body chemistry. birds on the other hand, can choose the what is happening around them. But But until further research is carried better singer in minutes! scientists now believe that your pet dog out, we cannot be perfectly sure just Parrots are a cut above the rest of might actually be able to sense what how a dog’s mind works.

Punjab Advance 47 January - 2018 Forecast

Your stars this month Dr. Prem Kumar Sharma email: [email protected]

Aries: Your efforts will pay on the ac- Leo: Ill health threatens to keep you Sagittarius: Fresh ideas and bold ademic front. Wealth and riches are moody and irritable. Work piles up on thinking is certain to rekindle your likely and promise to improve your fi- the professional front and may under- love life! Don’t be hasty in matters per- nancial status. Despite apprehensions, mine your enthusiasm. Some newly- taining to property. Effort put in for you will be able to get rid of a health weds may face initial adjustment building reputation at work is likely to problem facing you. Things move as problems. Those trying out the gym bring positive results. An outstanding planned on the professional front and for the first time need to be careful. amount, not received till now, may give you much satisfaction. Your ro- Those hoping for promotion may find materialise. A property deal is likely to mantic life will be most fulfilling, as themselves facing the tough competi- be sealed, as you are able to complete you manage to draw the one you love tion. all the formalities. closer.

Taurus: You may find yourself full of Virgo: You will apply yourself intel- Capricorn: Clarity of mind on the fi- energy and take up something new to ligently to the task at hand. Freshers nancial front will help you spend judi- do. Keep a check on what you speak at may find a job opening with future ciously and save on money. An work, as it can have some negative prospects that will bring financial excellent opportunity to enjoy togeth- repercussions for you. An invitation to gains. Taking time off to strengthen erness is indicated on the romantic a social gathering is likely to be re- your loving bonds on the romantic front. Health needs care; so avoid ceived. You may feel a bit reserved front will be a step in the right direc- being careless. A problem can be sur- about taking romance to the next tion. Irresponsible spending can get mounted at workplace that may take level. Health matters gain priority and you into trouble on the financial front. more time in solving, than anticipated. will motivate you to embark on the Consuming more junk food can upset Playing the good host at a party or- road to total fitness. your digestive system. ganised by you is possible.

Gemini: Special treatment is likely to Libra: Spotlight is likely to be on you Aquarius: Remaining slim and trim be accorded to some at work, due to on the social front, as you go around may become your aim and you will go your professional skills. Too much winning friends and influencing peo- all out to achieve it. Those travelling travelling may get on your nerves, so ple. Those in the creative field are set for fun can expect an exciting time. A take a break. Those working away to make their mark. A profitable ven- chance meeting with an opposite from their home town may start feel- ture is likely to fill up the coffers of number shows much excitement on ing homesick. A chance encounter some businesspersons. A relationship the romantic front. You get a chance with someone from the opposite camp lovingly nurtured by you is likely to to improve upon your performance on is likely to brighten your month. Im- give you immense joy and fulfillment. the professional front and you will not plement new ideas to remain fit. All health worries simply vanish as disappoint! Good earning is assured for you make a firm resolve to remain fit. retailers and commission agents.

Cancer: Changes in the work sched- Scorpio: Financially, you are likely to Pisces: A bonanza on the financial ule can be expected on the professional grow stronger as you receive money front can be expected by some. You front. Close associates will be valuable from an unexpected source. Romantic will manage to remain regular in your allies, turn to them if you need another front looks rosy, as relationship takes workouts and enjoy good health perspective on an issue that’s per- an exciting turn. throughout the month. Spending qual- plexed. New projects or assignments You are likely to become health con- ity time with lover is indicated and started toward mid of the month have scious and succeed in achieving fitness. will give an opportunity for a heart-to- all the likelihood of succeeding. Some This is a favourable month for you, heart talk. Some relief can be expected bright prospects of owning a house or when love and praise will be showered in the hectic pace set for you on the a flat are foreseen for some. upon you. Travel stars look bright, so professional front. pack your bags and get set for a scin- tillating time.

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January - 2018 Punjab Advance 49 Last Word Langoor takes a joyride

Donald Banerjee

he sun was still fighting the morning’s mist grip. as I cycled down the streets of Lucknow to Not prepared to take orders from the monkey, the coverT the Central Command Horse Show being held stallion jumped and kicked his hind legs creating a at Polo Grounds. It was my first assignment as a commotion in the disciplined line of horses. The lead trainee reporter with The Pioneer in 1969. trainer shouted for discipline, but the the horse with Being a Cantt the langoor on its area everything ap- back tore through peared spick and the marching span. The roads horses and ran into had been broomed the field. and washed. After It kicked up a all the GOC-in-C lot of dust as it ran of the Central helter skelter, tak- Command was to ing three rounds of be the chief guest the big ground. for the day. Then it slowly trot- A number of ted back to the well-bred horses roundabout. This is and mules were when the baboon going towards the jumped off and venue. Maintain- climbed up the tree, ing a disciplined back to its high line they trotted perch. behind the lead The confusion horses which were and din over, the controlled by the trainers in green. The posters and mules and horses continued with their match towards signboards along the road gave a brief information the Polo Ground. about the three-day horse show. The 10-minute entertainment over, the people got As I approached the roundabout from where the back to their routine. I also got on to my cycle. As I road branched off towards the Catt area, I noticed a passed the roundabout I felt as if somebody was jump- Langoor (baboon) perched on a neem tree. As the lead ing on to cycle’s rear carrier. As I glanced back I vir- horses came close the monkey decided to have a closer tually came face to face with the langoor, who had look. It clambered down the tree and jumped on to one decided to take a cycle ride. I heard loud cries from of the horses for a joyride. vendors telling me to just to continue my ride. I con- The Army-bred horse was in no mood to allow his tinued pedaling down the road. I had barely covered master’s ancestor to take him for a ride. It snorted, 200 metres when the monkey patted me on the back jumped and kicked its legs. The langoor tightened his and jumped off.

50 Punjab Advance January - 2018 People’s participation for effective governance The Government of Punjab is now on Social media

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January - 2018 RNI No. CHAENG/2013/53324 A Monthly Magazine MBU Chd.