Law & order situation in Punjab matter of concern: Governor
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has stated that the law and order situation is a matter of concern in the state and until it does not improve, investors would avoid coming to Punjab. Also commenting on the issue of stubble burning by farmers, he said, “We need to go beyond legal measures and think of other solutions.”
The governor was addressing the valedictory session of “Punjab Vision 2047”, a two-day conclave organised by Dr Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Rajya Sabha MP and president of World Punjabi Organisation, in collaboration with the Punjab Development Commission and Panjab University today.
“We have to think how to engage youth so anti-social elements are not able to misuse them. Educational institutions need to improve their training so they are able to stand on their own feet. Employment is a big solution to many issues, including drug addiction,” the Governor said during his address.
On the issue of stubble burning, he said, “Law cannot be the solution to curbing straw burning. When the gap to sow the next crop after harvesting is so short, how will the farmer clear the field? We have to think of a solution that is acceptable to all and also favourable to the environment,” he added. “Likewise, we have to research on how to stop using agricultural chemicals without losing crop productivity.” “Punjab is the only state that can fulfil India’s dream of uniform development by 2047. When Punjab solved India’s food shortage after the 1965 war, it not only solved the problem of our hunger but also fed other countries of the world,” said Kataria. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sahney requested the Governor’s help to solve certain issues related to Punjab. “Reopening of Wagah border for trade can help Punjab send its products to Central Asia. A lack of international flights from Mohali and Amritsar is a deterrent to expansion of industry. We also need a minimum support price for crops other than wheat and paddy, which can solve the farming and ecological crisis of Punjab,” he said.
