In a meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, several crucial decisions were made on Monday, shaping the course of governance in the state. The cabinet approved the convening of the fifth session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly on November 28 and 29, marking a significant legislative milestone. The meeting, held at the Chief Minister’s office in the Punjab Civil Secretariat, saw the cabinet affixing its seal of approval on key decisions.
Among the notable approvals was the creation and filling of nine positions at Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Sports University, Patiala. These positions, including Assistant Manager, Programmer, Technical Assistant, and Clerk-Cum-Data Entry Operator, are aimed at enhancing the technical cadre and supporting the university’s mission to elevate the standard of sports education and training in the state.
The cabinet also greenlit the Punjab Canal and Drainage Bill 2023, a crucial step toward effective control and management of canals and drainage in the state. The bill focuses on providing uninterrupted irrigation water to farmers and landowners by ensuring the maintenance, repair, and timely cleaning of canals, drains, and natural water sources. Additionally, the bill aims to establish an impartial and transparent framework to address complaints related to the misuse of water and unnecessary wastage.
Furthermore, the cabinet made significant decisions regarding the closure of the Punjab State Social Welfare Board (PSSWB). It approved the merger of employees, pensioners, and staff, including 5 ICDS blocks, stationed at its headquarters, into the Department of Social Security, Women, and Child Development.
In the realm of criminal justice, the cabinet granted parole to a prisoner and canceled four other pending cases of early release. These decisions, made under the constitutional provisions of the Indian Constitution, will be sent for consideration to the Governor of Punjab under Article 163 and Article 161 for special exemptions and advance release cases, respectively. Lastly, the cabinet approved the annual administrative report for the Tourism, Cultural Affairs, Archaeology, and Museums Department for the fiscal year 2021-2022. This comprehensive report provides insights into the administrative activities and achievements of the department, contributing to the state’s tourism and cultural heritage.In essence, the cabinet meeting showcased a commitment to legislative, educational, social welfare, water management, and cultural affairs, reinforcing the new government’s dedication to holistic development and governance in Punjab.
