Punjab Medical Education & Research Minister OP Soni today said that the medical colleges and hospitals at Patiala and Amritsar would soon provide medical and healthcare facilities at par with Post Graduate Institute of Medical College & Research (PGIMER). He said this while speaking to media persons while attending a function organised at Greenland Senior Secondary School, here today. Ludhiana (East) MLA Mr Sanjay Talwar was also present on the occasion.While speaking to the media persons, Mr Soni said that the Capt Amarinder Singh led Punjab government is committed for strengthening healthcare, education and basic infrastructure in the state. He said that sincere efforts are being made for total transformation of both these prominent colleges and hospitals so that they have the best of facilities. He said that the state government is also ensuring that there is no shortage of doctors in the state.While replying to a question related to increased pollution levels, he said that although the air pollution levels in the state are on rise for last few days, but the Punjab government is making sincere efforts to check it and provide relief. He said that only the farmers cannot be blamed for causing air pollution, but appealed to them to not burn paddy straw and instead adopt techniques for in-situ management of paddy straw and agricultural residue.Mr OP Soni further stated that for cleaning and beautification of the Budha Nullah, the state government has prepared a detailed project, work on which would start shortly. He also paid tribute to Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha on his martyrdom day.The NCC cadets of the school gave guard of honour to Mr OP Soni. While addressing the students, the Cabinet Minister stressed on the need to save our rich heritage and culture. Principal Mrs Baldeep Kaur Pandher read out the annual report of the school. The school students also presented a cultural function on the occasion. Dr Rajesh Kundra, Chairman-cum-Director of Greenland Schools presented a vote of thanks.