fortune ox pg
MORRIS: Winnipeg foodie stocking stuffers for the holidays
It’s no accident that people remember certain events in their lives because of music. Yiren Ren, a psychology researcher at Georgia Institute of Technology, and others published a new study that discovered how listening to music can not only trigger memories but can also change how people remember them. Ren’s mentor, Thackery Brown, and University of Colorado Boulder music experts Sophia Mehdizadeh and Grace Leslie also participated in the study, which analyzed the connections between music, emotion and memory. They developed a 3-day episodic memory task with separate encoding, recollection, and retrieval phases to get to their primary hypothesis. On the first day, participants memorized a series of short, emotionally neutral stories. The next day, they recalled the stories while listening to either positive music, negative music, or silence. On the third and final day, they were asked to recall the stories again, this time without listening to music. The participants’ brain activity was recorded on the second day with fMRI scans, which detects changes in the brain’s blood flow. From the study’s results, participants who listened to emotional music while recalling neutral stories were more likely to add emotional elements into the story. Another finding was that there was an increase in amygdala, the brain’s emotional center, and hippocampus, which plays a vital role in learning and memory, for participants who recalled stories while listening to music. Plus, the fMRI scans showed “altered neural engagement” during story recollection with music, as opposed to story recollection in silence. There was also evidence of communication between the emotional memory processing parts of the brain and the visual sensory processing parts of the brain, according to the study. In other words, music has the ability to infuse emotional details into memories Ren noted that “while further research is needed, our findings have exciting implications for both everyday life and for medicine.” The study also explained how music can affect the memories of people dealing with depression, PTSD or other mental health conditions . For those individuals, their negative memories can be turned more positive and be reduced over time by “carefully chosen music.” The study pointed out that, based on these findings, music-based methods can be used in treatments for mental health conditions. Overall, the study found a clear connection — and a positive one, at that — between music and memory. “These findings illuminate the interplay between music, emotion, and memory, offering insights into the consequences of infusing emotional music into memory recollection processes,” the conclusion of the study read.Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market Analysis By Top Keyplayers - Shanghai Kangda Chemical New Material Group Co., Ltd., Techstorm Advanced Material Co., Ltd., Westlake Chemical, Olin, Huntsman, Henkel, Lord Corporation, H.B. Fuller, Bostik 11-25-2024 12:24 AM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: Verified Market Research The "Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market" is expected to reach USD xx.x billion by 2031, indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of xx.x percent from 2024 to 2031. The market was valued at USD xx.x billion In 2023. Growing Demand and Growth Potential in the Global Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market, 2024-2031 Verified Market Research's most recent report, "Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2030," provides an in-depth examination of the industry that includes insights into the market analysis. Along with competition and geographical research, the report also covers recent developments in the worldwide industry. The market for cosmetic packaging has been rising dramatically in recent years due to a variety of important factors, including rising product demand, a greater client base, and developments in technology. The market is thoroughly examined in this study, along with its size, trends, factors driving and impeding growth, competitive aspects, and potential for expansion. Download Full PDF Sample Copy of Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Report @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/download-sample/?rid=218288&utm_source=Openpr&utm_medium=210 Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market business report has been produced with a thorough grasp of the business environment that best fits the client's needs. This market analysis can also help businesses understand sustainability initiatives and financial growth. This report's explanation of market drivers and constraints helps readers understand how many factors might affect how much demand a given product has from consumers. All of the leading companies' and brands' company profiles are included in this market analysis. In-depth research and analysis are used to appropriately elaborate on each area in order to produce an accurate Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market survey report. Who is the largest manufacturers of Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market worldwide? Shanghai Kangda Chemical New Material Group Co. Ltd. Techstorm Advanced Material Co. Ltd. Westlake Chemical Olin Huntsman Henkel Lord Corporation H.B. Fuller Bostik Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market Segmentation Analysis Segmentation analysis involves dividing the market into distinct groups based on certain criteria such as type and application. This helps in understanding the market dynamics, targeting specific customer groups, and devising tailored marketing strategies. Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market By Type Epoxy Structural Adhesive Polyurethane Structural Adhesive Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market By Applications Below 2.0 MW 2.0-3.0 MW 3.0-5.0 MW Above 5.0 MW Get Discount On The Purchase Of This Report @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/ask-for-discount/?rid=218288&utm_source=Openpr&utm_medium=210 Detailed TOC of Global Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market Research Report, 2023-2030 1. Introduction of the Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market ►Overview of the Market ►Scope of Report ►Assumptions 2. Executive Summary 3. Research Methodology of Verified Market Reports ►Data Minin ►Validation ►Primary Interview ►List of Data Sources 4. Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market Outlook ►Overview ►Market Dynamics ►Drivers ►Restraints ►Opportunities ►Porters Five Force Model ►Value Chain Analysis 5. Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market, By Product 6. Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market, By Application 7. Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market, By Geography ►North America ►Europe ►Asia Pacific ►Rest of the World 8. Wind Turbine Structural Adhesive Market Competitive Landscape ►Overview ►Company Market Ranking ►Key Development Strategies 9. Company Profiles 10. Appendix For More Information or Query, Visit @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/product/wind-turbine-structural-adhesive-market/ Contact us: Mr. Edwyne Fernandes US: +1 (650)-781-4080 US Toll-Free: +1 (800)-782-1768 About Us: Verified Market Reports Verified Market Reports is a leading Global Research and Consulting firm servicing over 5000+ global clients. We provide advanced analytical research solutions while offering information-enriched research studies. We also offer insights into strategic and growth analyses and data necessary to achieve corporate goals and critical revenue decisions. Our 250 Analysts and SMEs offer a high level of expertise in data collection and governance using industrial techniques to collect and analyze data on more than 25,000 high-impact and niche markets. Our analysts are trained to combine modern data collection techniques, superior research methodology, expertise, and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research. This release was published on openPR.
MANCHESTER (AFP) – Ruben Amorim takes charge of Manchester United for the first time at Ipswich today, confident that he is the man to revive the troubled Premier League club. Amorim arrives hailed as one of Europe’s brightest coaching prospects after a highly successful spell at Sporting Lisbon. But the 39-year-old is United’s sixth permanent appointment since legendary former boss Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. In the 11 years since, United have failed to challenge in either the Premier League or Champions League and currently sit 13th in the English top-flight. Two trophies in his two full seasons in charge was not enough to save Erik ten Hag as there was no reason to believe the Dutchman was capable of reversing a shocking run of results. Even when he did score impressive wins over the likes of Barcelona, Liverpool and Manchester City, Ten Hag relied on moments of individual brilliance from his stars rather than imposing a clear style of play. Amorim has earned his ticket to the Premier League after transforming the fortunes of Sporting over the past four years. His brand of attacking and energetic football saw Sporting finally step out of the shadow of Benfica and Porto to win the Portuguese league twice after a 19-year wait. “As a coach you have to choose one way or another, I choose always 100 per cent our way. I choose to risk a bit,” he said at his unveiling on Friday. “I believe so much in our way of playing, they will believe too. There is no second way.” But he will have precious little time on the training ground to impose his philosophy as United face a gruelling run of 12 games between November 24 and January 5. United’s fall from grace has come despite continuing to spend colossal sums on transfer fees and wages. Over GBP600 million (USD778 million) was spent over Ten Hag’s five transfer windows on new signings but very few have proved value for money. David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer were also chewed up and spat out by the pressures of managing United since Ferguson’s departure. “Every manager that comes to Manchester United, we start to think they’re the problem at a certain point,” said former United captain Gary Neville.Food Service Workers Can’t Afford to Eat the Food They ServeFruit Pomace Global Market Report 2024: Exploring Prominent Trends and High-Growth Market Segments
( MENAFN - Daily News Egypt) Egypt's petroleum Minister, Karim Badawi, attended the signing of two strategic agreements between ABB Egypt, a leader in energy and technology solutions, and key stakeholders in Egypt's industrial sector. These agreements aim to improve energy efficiency and promote sustainability within Egypt's industrial landscape. The first agreement was signed by Ahmed El-Sherbini, Vice President of ABB Egypt's Cluster for Energy Industries, and Abed Ezz El Regal, Chairman and Managing Director of Abu Qir Fertilizers and Chemicals Industries Company (AFC). The agreement focuses on the installation of an advanced automation control system at Abu Qir Ammonia Plant (1). This system is designed to optimize steam utilization, resulting in a reduction of natural gas consumption for steam boilers by 2% to 4% in the initial phase. The project will also enhance the plant's overall operational efficiency. El-Sherbini emphasized the importance of the project, stating,“At ABB, we are committed to providing advanced solutions that support efficiency and sustainability across various industrial sectors.” He added,“This project represents a crucial step in enhancing sustainability and maximizing energy resource use at Abu Qir Fertilizers.” Looking forward, the project includes plans to expand the automation control system to Abu Qir Plants (2) and (3). This expansion will further improve operational performance and generate additional energy savings. Such initiatives align with ABB's long-standing commitment to supporting Egypt's Vision 2030, ensuring sustainable growth and environmental responsibility in the country's industrial sector. In addition, a second agreement was signed between El-Sherbini and Bjorn Q. Aaserod, CEO of the U.S. company MPS, in the presence of Eng. Ibrahim Meki, Chairman of the Egyptian Petrochemicals Holding Company (ECHEM), and Moataz Atef, Undersecretary of the Ministry for the Affairs of the Minister's Office, Technical Office, and official spokesperson. This agreement focuses on ABB's role in providing advanced technical solutions-encompassing electrical systems, automation control, and digital technologies-for a green hydrogen project. The initiative will partially replace natural gas in production processes, significantly reducing both natural gas consumption and carbon emissions. El-Sherbini commented:“At ABB, we are dedicated to playing a pivotal role in advancing Egypt's transition to sustainable energy. We strive to deliver cutting-edge solutions that drive operational efficiency across diverse industries, ensuring a future of enhanced sustainability and innovation.” MENAFN22122024000153011029ID1109022277 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Port Moody council has been able to significantly whittle down its proposed property tax increase, approving a 5.71 percent bump for its provisional 2025 budget. The interim figure was discussed at a finance committee meeting on Dec. 17, with council managing to slash around seven percent since budget deliberations began in October. Mayor Meghan Lahti said this year’s budget came with challenges she’s never experienced in her 25 years in office, noting the consumer price index has risen nearly 14 percent since council took office. “That is astronomical,” Lahti said. “It was really important to show our willingness to reduce the budget in areas that are priorities for us, because we are responding to the public’s desire to see a lower tax increase.” Port Moody’s taxpayers have faced a combined 15.89 percent tax hike over the previous two budget cycles. Public frustration was reflected in this year’s budget consultations, with over half of respondents opposed to any increases in 2025. Approximately 70 percent of the city’s $90 million budget is funded through taxation, with the city’s provisional budget adding an additional $3.3 million from last year, amounting to $167 more for the average household. Staff’s initial tax proposal pitched a 10.85 percent when deliberations began, which council reduced to 8.52 percent following two workshops. However, reductions in the BC Assessment roll and increased labour costs and benefits added another $1.25 million, bringing the figure back up to 10.3 percent. Council has since made substantial cuts for a further $2.68 million reduction, or 4.59 percent. This includes pausing the city’s Climate Action Levy for a year ($584,000); using accumulated surplus to fund community events, inclusionary initiatives and previously deferred items ($695,000); reducing various reverse transfers ($319,000); decreasing services levels ($317,000); budget reductions ($150,000); eliminating or phasing in new budget requests ($192,000); and adjusting sick-time and vacation benefits ($150,000). The city has also recalculated the amount of revenue it expects from pay parking, recreation, filming, leasing and businesses licensing, adding $345,000. Paul Rockwood, general manager of finance and technology, said “tough economic times require tough measures.” He said the city significantly underestimated the amount of tax revenue it would bring in from new growth. Originally, staff expected to net an additional $584,000, but less than a quarter of that was realized. “We had very minimal taxation growth this year,” Rockwood said. “But we are facing increased demand, internally and externally for a variety of services.” Lahti said she’s seen a lot of public commentary regarding the lack of tax revenues from new growth, but cautioned it takes time before it shows up on the city’s balance sheet. She said she anticipates more money will be realized after a new BC Assessment roll occurs in 2025. “Hopefully next year will be a much more positive outcome for all the work that we’re putting in to provide housing,” Lahti said. “We want to see that translated into a reduction in our taxes, or at least some breathing room.” Council was defensive regarding the recent budget increases, with some members taking aim at previous council’s decisions, social media chatter, and media reporting. Coun. Kyla Knowles attacked what she described as “rampant misinformation and spin” on social media. She said comparisons with the former council’s budgets were unfair, pointing to inflationary impacts, and budget reductions from in-person events and positions being cut during the COVID-19 pandemic. Knowles also asserted the former council drained the growth-stabilization reserve, which added $400,00 annually to city coffers to help ease the loss of its industrial tax base. “The previous council depleted it to their great benefit, and it’s a shame that it didn’t continue to get topped up as we went along,” Knowles said. Couns. Callan Morrison and Samantha Agtarap both took issue with a Global News story, which ranked Port Moody’s initial 8.52 percent increase as the highest in the Lower Mainland. Agtarap said such comparisons are inevitable, but argued it is not fair to compare Port Moody to municipalities with casinos, which receive 10 percent of their net revenues. “For a community like Richmond, that’s over $12 million, and for Coquitlam, that’s almost $7 million (annually),” she said. Coun. Diana Dilworth warned of continued instability in the coming years. “There’s not a lot of certainty that any local government has at this time,” she said. She noted the Canadian dollar continues to drop, federal rebate cheques have been cancelled, and the entire political landscape could change by the next federal election. Dilworth suggested the growth-stabilization reserve ought to be re-established, stating it was initially set up in the 1990s to help ease tax impacts. Council voted to have staff report back with a strategic plan and policy to create a new reserve, dubbed by Lahti as the rate-stabilization reserve. Port Moody has until May 15 to pass the official budget.Artificial intelligence (AI) is a new technology with tremendous long-term investment potential. But don't assume that all AI stocks are speculative or high-octane growth businesses. There are plenty of opportunities for dividend investors to add AI exposure to their portfolios, too. Some companies in the best positions to lead the AI industry pay dividends. Their core businesses are enhanced by AI or even have growth opportunities. No, they aren't high-yield stocks that income-focused investors would prefer, but their dividend growth potential makes them wealth compounders to buy and hold for the long term -- including these three AI stocks. 1. Broadcom Semiconductor giant Broadcom ( AVGO -1.47% ) specializes in chips for connectivity applications, such as networking, server storage, and broadband. And it acquired companies to build enterprise infrastructure software into about 40% of its business. This created a diversified technology company that generated $51.5 billion in revenue in its fiscal year 2024, with $19.4 billion (37%) of that in free cash flow . The company paid and raised its dividend for 15 consecutive years at an average hike of 14.7% over the past five years. The current payout ratio is only 48% of its fiscal year 2024 earnings, so investors should feel good about the dividend's security and growth potential. Analysts estimate Broadcom will grow earnings by an average of nearly 22% annually over the long term, according to Yahoo! Finance. Its promising growth expectations are mainly due to its AI-related opportunities. The company has secured deals to develop AI chips for some notable customers, which management has yet to name formally. This year, Broadcom's AI-related revenue totaled $12.2 billion, and management believes it will grow substantially as these chip deals get underway, making the long-term dividend potential sky-high. 2. Microsoft Microsoft ( MSFT -1.73% ) is on a 22-year dividend growth streak. The company has become an AI business on multiple levels, integrating the technology throughout its software products to enhance the user experience. And it owns Azure, the world's second-largest cloud computing platform, whose growth is fueled by the AI applications it deploys. Microsoft keeps growing despite its staggering size, reaching a $3.2 trillion market cap and $254 billion in annual revenue. Analysts estimate the business will grow earnings by a yearly average of 13% over the long term. That should spell inflation-beating dividend increases. The dividend is also about as safe as they come. The payout ratio is only 26% of 2024 earnings estimates, and Microsoft is one of two public companies with an AAA credit rating -- higher than the U.S. government. This ironclad balance sheet gives it the utmost financial flexibility and security. Investors looking for safety and growth should look no further than Microsoft. 3. Meta Platforms Social media titan Meta Platforms ( META -0.59% ) is new to the dividend game, initiating its payout this year. And it has the ingredients for dividend stardom. Meta is arguably the world's best advertising business, generating profits by showing digital ads to the 3.29 billion people who view Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads daily. CEO Mark Zuckerberg pushed Meta hard into AI. It created an open-source AI model (Llama) and built the data centers to support its vast computing requirements. The company is also investing billions in its Reality Labs segment , which could add to its growth if it makes money at some point. Meta's dividend is only 9% of the company's 2024 earnings estimates, so the growth potential is obvious. I probably wouldn't expect overly aggressive increases as long as the company is losing money on Reality Labs, but investors have a solid shot at double-digit dividend growth. Analysts estimate earnings will rise by an average of 17% annually over the long term, so the dividend could easily sustain high growth while keeping the payout ratio low. Meta is likely a dividend growth star in the making.
Record-breaker Kane hits back after England criticismChristmas is a few days away, and it’s time to fill those stockings with thoughtful, delicious treats. If you’re shopping for the food lover in your life — or simply want to elevate your gift-giving game — consider these unique stocking stuffers from Winnipeg’s vibrant food scene. No stocking is complete without a bit of chocolate, and Winnipeg has some incredible options. One of my favourites is Decadence Chocolates, a locally owned artisan chocolate shop on Sherbrook Street. Their chocolate is absolutely delicious — every bite feels like a little luxury. I’m hooked on their festive holiday-shaped chocolates, and their bark, and don’t even get me started on their chocolate caramel popcorn with pretzels — it’s completely addicting! One of my favourite gift ideas they offer is the paint-and-decorate Christmas tree chocolate — it’s such a fun gift for kids. They even have fully vegan options and offer a 12-piece box of custom-printed chocolates featuring your own images. Visit decadencechocolates.ca to explore their incredible lineup of chocolates. For the cheese enthusiast, a visit to Cheesemongers Fromagerie on Corydon is an absolute must. Their curated selection of local and international cheeses is unmatched, and I can’t get enough of their truffle cheese — it’s out of this world! If you’re short on time, their pre-packaged gift sets are a lifesaver. And for last-minute hosting, their cheese boards are both stunning and delicious — always a show-stopper at my dinner parties! Small jars of jam make the perfect addition to any stocking! One of my favourite local picks is Fancy Infusions, a Winnipeg-based business known for their handcrafted pepper jellies and jams. They’ve perfected the balance of sweet and spice — a little naughty and nice for the holiday season. These jars are amazing for pairing with a cheese board, glazing meats, or spreading on toast. Honestly, I’ve been caught eating these jellies straight out of the jar with a spoon — it’s that good. With so many different flavour variations, there’s truly a jelly for everyone. You can visit their Facebook or Instagram page @fancyinfusions to find out where to pick up their delicious jellies. They’re a thoughtful gift that adds a local, tasty touch to your holiday stockings! Winnipeg’s food scene offers endless inspiration for filling stockings for the foodie lovers in your life. Here are a few more ideas: Flavoured Oils or Vinegars: Look for unique varieties like blood orange olive oil or balsamic vinegar infused with figs. Spices and Seasonings: Gift a blend of artisanal spices from local makers, perfect for home cooks to experiment with. Mini Bottles of Wine or Spirits: Bring some holiday cheer with a sip of locally crafted spirits, beer, or wine. To make your foodie stocking stuffers even more special, consider adding a handwritten recipe card featuring a dish that incorporates the ingredients you’re gifting. Pair a brie round with a recipe for baked brie with cranberry sauce — it’s my go-to holiday season appetizer. It’s quick, easy, and always a hit! Or include a holiday cocktail recipe with a mini bottle of spirits to inspire a celebratory toast. Whether it’s the indulgent chocolates from Decadence Chocolates, the gourmet cheeses from Cheesemongers Fromagerie, or the scrumptious jellies from Fancy Infusions, these thoughtful treats are sure to bring smiles and full bellies. Supporting local businesses while giving gifts that truly stand out — it’s a win-win this holiday season! And speaking of crowd-pleasing treats, this week’s recipe is a holiday essential that pairs perfectly with any festive meal. Creamy, dreamy, and full of flavour, these creamy mashed potatoes are sure to become a staple at your holiday table. Whether it’s the perfect gift or the perfect dish, this holiday season is all about sharing love — and great food. Happy Holidays from my family to yours! 5 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes, chopped 6 garlic cloves, minced Kosher salt 1/2 cup butter 1 cup heavy/whipping cream 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature Peel and Cut Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks, about 1 inch thick. Place the cut potatoes into a large stock pot filled with cold water. Boil the Potatoes: Once your potatoes are cut, make sure the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes in the pot. Stir in the minced garlic, then turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add salt then reduce the heat to medium-high (or whatever setting keeps the boil going) and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until a knife easily slides into the middle of a potato. Carefully drain the water. Pan-Dry the Potatoes: Once you’ve drained the water, immediately return the potatoes to the hot stockpot and place it back on the burner over low heat. Using oven mitts, carefully grip the handles and gently shake the pot for about a minute to help release any remaining steam from the potatoes. Remove the pot from the heat. Prepare the Butter Mixture: While the potatoes are boiling, combine the butter, cream, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted, making sure the cream doesn’t come to a boil. Set it aside until you’re ready to use it. Mash the Potatoes: Use an old-school potato masher and work up some elbow grease to mash the potatoes until they’re completely smooth. Stir Everything Together: Pour half of the melted butter mixture over the potatoes and gently fold it in with a spatula until the potatoes absorb the liquid. Repeat with the remaining butter, then add the cream cheese, folding everything in until just combined. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, add a pat of butter on top, and serve hot. For detailed instructions and the online recipe for this week’s Recipes of the Week, open your phone’s camera, scan the QR code, and follow the link. You can also find all recipes featured at cookingwithcassandra.com . — Cassandra Morris, food blogger and recipe developer at cookingwithcassandra.com , shares the best recipes, essential kitchen tips and spotlights locally owned restaurants and specialty food must-tries.Chandigarh, Dec 22 (PTI) Punjab has sought Rs 1,000 crore Central assistance to strengthen its police infrastructure and security efforts in the border districts, among a slew of other demands, at a pre-budget meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held in Jaisalmer, an official statement said on Sunday. Industrial incentives similar to those provided to Jammu and Kashmir and the neighbouring hill states were also sought to support the MSMEs in Punjab's border and sub-mountainous regions, a Punjab government statement said on Sunday. Quoting Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, the statement said the state has strongly raised the demand to restore NABARD's Short-Term Seasonal Agricultural Operations (ST-SAO) limit to Rs 3,041 crore, from the reduced limit of Rs 1,100 crore, for FY 2024-25. Cheema said this restoration is vital to prevent farmers from turning to moneylenders, aligning with the 'Sahakar se Samriddhi' principle. Several states raised this issue which was discussed at length, he added. For road connectivity under PM Gati Shakti in Rajpura, the Punjab government has requested Rs 100 crore to construct a 5.6 km long, 45 mt wide approach road connecting NH-44 to the integrated manufacturing cluster (IMC) in Rajpura. This funding is essential for the timely completion of road construction and the successful implementation of the industrial cluster, Cheema said. Referring to the Vande Bharat train connecting Amritsar with New Delhi, Punjab government requested for a similar train to connect Bathinda, Punjab's agricultural and commercial hub, with the national capital to ensure seamless connectivity for the Malwa region of the state. Cheema also proposed financial support to address crop residue management in Punjab, saying despite providing 1.45 lakh crop residue management (CRM) machines since 2018, high operational costs remain a challenge. The Punjab government has proposed an incentive of Rs 2,500 per acre, with Rs 2,000 per acre from the Centre and Rs 500 per acre from the state, as per the statement. Out of the total estimated cost of Rs 2,000 crore for this initiative, the government of India has been requested to provide Rs 1,600 crore as budgetary support, the statement said. Cheema also requested the Centre for a special budgetary allocation for paddy diversification, saying diversifying cultivation across 10 lakh hectares could result in substantial savings of more than Rs 30,000 crore. The Punjab government has proposed allocating a portion of these savings towards a comprehensive diversification package, Cheema said. For the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) scheme, Cheema proposed enhancing the grant from Rs 1.2 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh per beneficiary to accommodate rising construction costs. The minister also highlighted the need to release pending funds under the National Health Mission (NHM) amounting to Rs 1,119 crore, besides requesting an increase in the honorarium for cook-cum-helpers under the PM Poshan Abhiyaan from Rs 600 to Rs 2,000 per month. Additionally, Punjab sought support for urban transportation, requesting Rs 300 crore for the procurement of 250 electric buses and the installation of charging points. The state also called for reimbursement of procurement costs by the government of India, modernisation of driving licence testing with advanced technology, and reimbursement of pending rural development fee (RDF) amounting to Rs 6,857 crore. Expressing gratitude to Sitharaman for giving Punjab the opportunity to present its suggestions, Cheema said the state's demand for an incentive package to address the unique challenges faced by it, particularly due to its proximity to a hostile border with Pakistan, is crucial to bolster infrastructure and security measures. He also expressed hope that the upcoming Union Budget will act as a catalyst for fostering citizen welfare, driving regional development, and spurring economic growth, the statement said. (This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)
Ravens vs Chargers Prediction: Odds, Expert Picks, QB Matchup, Injury News, Betting Trends and Stats