Punjab Cabinet Makes Major Decisions: Ration Cards Restored, Teachers’ Transfer Policy Revamped,

Punjab Cabinet Makes Major Decisions: Ration Cards Restored, Teachers’ Transfer Policy Revamped, and More

The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, made a series of key decisions on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, impacting various sectors across the state. The decisions aim to improve public welfare, transparency, and efficiency in governance.

Key Highlights:

• Ration cards restored: Over 10.77 lakh ration cards, previously cancelled during verification, were reinstated to ensure access to subsidized food grains under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
• New transfer policy for teachers: A streamlined and transparent transfer policy for teachers was approved to prioritize teaching duties over frequent transfers. The policy also facilitates transfers for teachers with family members suffering from chronic diseases.
• CM Di Yogshala campaign expands: The popular health initiative, CM Di Yogshala, will be extended to 15 more districts, covering the entire state. This program provides free yoga classes and promotes healthy living.
• Financial assistance to ex-servicemen enhanced: The financial assistance for ex-servicemen and their widows (above 65 years) who participated in World Wars but lack pensions was increased from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000 per month.
• School of Eminence established: A prestigious School of Eminence will be set up in the building of Punjab Institute of Technology (PIT) to provide world-class education and facilities to students.
• Mandis contract decision: The Punjab Mandi Board will no longer award contracts for leftover material from mandis, aiming to improve the livelihood of poor communities.
• Self-certification for building plans: Residents of urban areas can now self-certify residential building plans up to 500 square yards, streamlining the approval process and reducing dependence on officials.
• Maximum sugarcane price assured: Sugarcane farmers will receive the fixed State Agreed Price (SAP) of Rs. 391/- and 381/- per quintal for early and mid-late varieties, respectively.
• Farishtey scheme launched: To reduce road accident fatalities, the “Farishtey” scheme will provide immediate and hassle-free treatment to victims in both public and private hospitals. Incentives like financial rewards and commendations will be offered to encourage public assistance.
• Administrative reports approved: The Cabinet approved the administrative reports for 2018-19 to 2021-22 of the Transport Department, including the State Transport Commissioner, Director State Transport, and Pepsu Road Transport Corporation.
• PPSC Chairman recommendation: Jatinder Singh Aulakh was recommended for the post of Chairman of the Punjab Public Service Commission.

• Keywords: Punjab Cabinet, Bhagwant Singh Mann, ration cards, teachers’ transfer policy, CM Di Yogshala, ex-servicemen, School of Eminence, mandis, building plans, sugarcane price, Farishtey scheme, Transport Department, PPSC Chairman