*By developing Punjab’s tourism destinations, AAP Govt is providing employment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann says after inaugurating Saleran Dam eco-tourism project in Hoshiarpur*
*Film shoots & destination weddings at Amritsar, Patiala and Chimraud Lake have also increased employment opportunities: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Saleran Dam will compete with tourism destinations of Himachal Pradesh: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*AAP Govt has revived 52 rest houses that had turned into ruins, and they are now generating ₹1 crore in monthly rental revenue: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Previous govts sold govt properties to their friends at throwaway prices; we have recovered those properties: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
HOSHIARPUR, 25th January 2026:Inaugurating eco-friendly huts at Saleran Dam to give a major push to eco-tourism and job creation in the state, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday said the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government is increasing employment by developing Punjab’s tourism destinations. He said that film shoots and destination weddings at Amritsar, Patiala and Chimraud Lake have also led to a rise in employment opportunities, adding that the Saleran Dam project will compete with tourism destinations of Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister said the AAP government has revived 52 rest houses that had turned into ruins and that they are now generating ₹1 crore in monthly rental revenue. He said previous governments sold government properties to their friends at throwaway prices, but the present government has recovered those assets.
Interacting with media persons after inaugurating the Saleran Dam Eco-Tourism Project, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Today we have inaugurated the Saleran Dam Eco-Tourism Project to further strengthen tourism infrastructure in the state. Earlier, the Chohal Dam project has been running successfully, and this new initiative will add another attractive destination for tourists.”
The Chief Minister said the project has been conceived at a cost of ₹2.80 crore and is expected to generate more than ₹18 lakh in annual revenue. “This project will attract tourists to the area, create job opportunities for local youth and significantly boost their income,” he added.
Highlighting the facilities created under the project, the Chief Minister said, “A special playground spread over 16,000 square feet has been constructed for children, with a multi-play station and other recreational activities.” He further said, “Four eco huts have been constructed for tourists to stay, and a cafeteria with seating capacity for 80 people has also been built.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added that a large amphitheatre has been developed to enjoy the scenic views of Saleran Dam, noting that “this project will prove highly significant in giving a major fillip to eco tourism in Punjab.”
The Chief Minister said the project has been developed with a focus on environmental sensitivity and awareness. “Environment-friendly tourism and recreational infrastructure has been created, keeping ecological balance in mind,” he said, adding that the Punjab government is making sustained efforts to promote tourism in the kandi belt of Punjab. “There is immense potential in these areas, and they can be developed as ideal tourist destinations to attract visitors from across the globe,” he said.
Lamenting the neglect of these regions in the past, the CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Due to the negligence of successive state governments, these areas remained ignored in the development process.” He said the government is now harnessing the untapped tourism potential of these areas known for their natural beauty. “Strenuous efforts are already underway to develop the entire region so that tourism in the state gets a major boost,” he added.
The Chief Minister said the region is blessed with abundant natural resources capable of drawing tourists from across the country and abroad. “Promotion of economic activity in this region is the need of the hour, as it will help transform the lives of the people,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the future, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The day is not far when, after improving infrastructure, this region will emerge as a major tourist hub. These areas can act as a catalyst in placing Punjab firmly on the international tourism map.”
Referring to steps taken by his government to revive tourism infrastructure, the Chief Minister said, “The state government has revived 75 abandoned rest houses, which are now fetching revenue of around ₹1 crore.” He said more such projects will be launched in the coming days to benefit people and attract nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. “Restaurants are also being developed along rivers for public convenience, whereas during previous regimes these assets were sold off to people close to those in power,” he said.
CM Bhagwant Singh stated the overarching objective is to give a strong push to the tourism sector by developing these areas in a planned and befitting manner. He also said, “Punjab’s tableau, showcasing the supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur ji, will be part of the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.”
Reiterating the government’s broader governance agenda, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since day one in office in 2022, our government has been working tirelessly for the welfare of the people. Initiatives such as Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, free power, Aam Aadmi Clinics, education reforms, water at tail ends, construction of rural roads and the Sadak Surakhya Force have been launched.”
On welfare commitments, the Chief Minister said, “The state government will fulfill its promise of giving ₹1,000 to every woman by making provisions in the coming budget.” He expressed hope that the Union government would extend a special package to Punjab in the upcoming Union Budget, saying, “Punjab’s contribution to the nation in every sector deserves recognition.”
Referring to economic and agricultural initiatives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “The Punjab government has partnered with Japanese company JICA, which will invest ₹1,300 crore to boost horticulture in Punjab.” He said this would help save precious groundwater while promoting crop diversification.
On law and order, the Chief Minister asserted, “It is ironic that those who patronised gangsters are now questioning the law and order situation.” He said the government has launched campaigns like ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ and ‘Gangsteraan te Vaar’ to break the backbone of drug smugglers and gangsters. “We are fully committed to eradicating social evils and building a peaceful, progressive and Rangla Punjab,” he said.
The Chief Minister stated anti-drone technology has been deployed along the border and is yielding encouraging results in checking the inflow of drugs and weapons. “Our aim is to stop cross-border terrorism and narco-terrorism. Punjab is the first state in the country to adopt this technology,” he said, adding that the government is making continuous efforts for the welfare of every section of society.
He said people-friendly schemes are being implemented by plugging leakages and using public funds judiciously. “Our motive is to ensure the progress of the state and prosperity of its people,” Bhagwant Singh Mann said, while adding that “if the Centre releases all the funds stalled by it, development in Punjab can be further accelerated.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann was accompanied by Cabinet Minister Barinder Goyal and other senior officials.
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*Road accident deaths in Punjab have dropped by 48% after formation of Sadak Surakhya Force; other states are keen to adopt this model: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Several other states have approached Punjab Govt to replicate Sadak Surakhya Force model: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Even PM referred to road safety in Mann Ki Baat; by creating Sadak Surakhya Force, Punjab has shown nation new path: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Before AAP Govt, Punjab was among top 3 states in road accident deaths: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Today, accident victims receive immediate first aid & proper treatment at hospitals, which is saving lives: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Patiala-Sirhind road, once known as ‘Killer Road’ with nearly 3 deaths every day, has been completely transformed by our govt: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Across Punjab, 43,000 kms of high quality roads are being built, connecting even villages with major routes: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
CHANDIGARH, 25th January 2026:Punjab has recorded a decisive improvement in road safety outcomes after the constitution of the Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF), with road accident deaths in the state declining by 48 percent through a system focused on swift emergency response, immediate first aid and better trauma care. Once counted among the top three states in the country for road accident fatalities, Punjab has significantly reversed this trend, with lives now being saved due to faster hospitalisation and improved treatment protocols.
Highlighting the impact of this intervention, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Sadak Surakhya Force has been central to transforming accident-prone stretches such as the Patiala-Sirhind ‘killer road’ and supporting the construction of 43,000 kilometres of high-quality roads across the state, adding that the model has attracted interest from several other states and has even been referenced by the Prime Minister in Mann Ki Baat as a roadmap for the nation.
On Sunday, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that “Punjab has witnessed a 48 percent reduction in road accident deaths, due to which several other states are now eager to replicate this model.” He said that “many states have contacted the Punjab government to implement this unique public safety initiative in their own regions.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The Prime Minister of India spoke about road safety in Mann Ki Baat, but Punjab showed the entire country a new path by creating the Sadak Surakhya Force.”
The Chief Minister said, “A specially trained, freshly recruited force of 1,597 personnel is acting as the backbone of the SSF and has been provided with 144 latest, fully equipped vehicles. Since its launch in February last year, this force has reduced road accident fatalities by 48 percent, besides ensuring the safe return of valuables and money belonging to people injured in road accidents.”
He said, “The force has been deployed along 4,200 kilometres of highways that are prone to traffic accidents. Apart from patrolling their assigned areas, the SSF also acts as a strong deterrent against traffic violations. None of the previous governments paid attention to such serious issues of public concern, due to which Punjab earlier figured among the top three states in road accident casualties.”
The Chief Minister asserted, “Today, accident victims are receiving immediate first aid and proper treatment in hospitals. The Patiala- Sirhind road, which was once known as a killer road with an average of three deaths every day, has now been transformed into a safer road.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government is constructing 43,000 kilometres of high-quality roads across Punjab to connect villages with main highways.”
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*STATEWIDE REGISTRATION DRIVE UNDER MUKH MANTRI SEHAT YOJANA CONTINUES ACROSS PUNJAB*
*ON THIRD DAY, DR BALBIR SINGH LEADS DRIVE IN RAJPURA, LALJIT SINGH BHULLAR IN PATTI AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES*
*EVERY FAMILY TO GET FREE TREATMENT UP TO RS.10 LAKH: DR BALBIR SINGH*
*NEEDY FAMILIES CAN AVAIL FREE TREATMENT IN PRIVATE HOSPITALS AS WELL: LALJIT SINGH BHULLAR*
*Chandigarh, January 25:*Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh today led the registration drive under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana at the Civil Hospital in Rajpura, district Patiala, while Transport and Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar spearheaded the campaign in Patti town and several surrounding villages. The ministers interacted with residents and informed them about the benefits of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, under which free treatment up to Rs.10 lakh is being provided. They also explained the complete procedure of making health cards in simple and clear terms.
Dr. Balbir Singh said that this landmark health scheme has been implemented across Punjab from January 22. He informed that around 65 lakh families are being covered under the scheme, benefiting nearly three crore people who will be entitled to free medical treatment up to Rs.10 lakh. He said the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana card marks a new beginning and will act as a turning point in strengthening Punjab’s public healthcare system.
The Health Minister informed that no fee is being charged for the issuance of the health card under the scheme. The Mann government has already paid the insurance amount to the insurance company, ensuring that citizens can access advanced healthcare services without any financial burden, said the Cabinet Minister, adding that treatment under the scheme will be available in government hospitals as well as empanelled private hospitals.
Transport and Jail Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that every family in the state will now be entitled to free treatment up to Rs.10 lakh and economically weaker sections will be able to receive treatment in private hospitals as well.
"This scheme has been designed to ensure that no citizen of Punjab is deprived of quality healthcare due to financial constraints", he added.
S. Laljit Singh Bhullar further said that all medicines and diagnostic tests will be provided free of cost under the scheme. He informed that specialised treatment facilities will be available in orthopaedics, general medicine, cardiology, neurology, nephrology, urology, oncology and other advanced medical disciplines. He said, the entire cost of hospital treatment along with diagnostic services has been fully covered, adding that this historic initiative of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government will play a crucial role in providing quality and free medical services to the people of the state.
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*Vigilance Bureau nabs Head Constable red handed accepting bribe of Rs 5.2 lakh*
Chandigarh January 25, 2026:The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against the corruption in the state, has apprehended Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, posted at CIA Khanna, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Master Colony Khanna, district Ludhiana.
He said that the complainant is engaged in the business of property dealing and complained that accused Head Constable Ramesh Kumar met him and alleged that the complainant was involved in gambling activities. Accused told the complainant that Narpinderpal Singh, CIA In-charge Khanna, had called him. The complainant stated that he was not involved in any such work, he was forced to contact the CIA In-charge.
The spokesperson added that the complainant went to the office and met CIA In-charge Narpinderpal Singh, who accused the complainant of engaging in betting and illegal lottery activities and demanded Rs. 5 lakh through Head Constable Ramesh Kumar. He also threatened to arrest the complainant after registering a false case against him.
Furthermore, he said that the complainant, under compulsion, arranged Rs. 2,20,000/- and attempted to give it to Ramesh Kumar at the house of his acquaintance Dinesh Kumar at Khanna, but the money was returned with the statement that the entire amount of Rs. 5 lakh was required.
Thereafter, during a conversation with Head Constable Ramesh Kumar, the bribe amount was increased from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh 20 thousand. The complainant did not want to pay the bribe, due to which he contacted the Vigilance Bureau Unit, Hoshiarpur. Subsequently, a case was registered against Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna and Head Constable Ramesh Kumar.
After a preliminary enquiry on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which the accused was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 5.2 lakh from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.
The Vigilance Bureau has formed various teams and is conducting raids at the residence and other locations of Narpinderpal Singh, In-charge CIA Khanna, to arrest him soon.
In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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*ON EVE OF REPUBLIC DAY, MHA ANNOUNCES NAMES OF PUNJAB POLICE OFFICIALS FOR PMDS, MMS AWARDS*
*— DGP GAURAV YADAV CONGRATULATES AWARDEES; THANKS CENTRAL GOVERNMENT AND STATE GOVERNMENT FOR RECOGNISING SERVICES OF PUNJAB POLICE*
CHANDIGARH, January 25:Recognising the outstanding services of the Punjab Police, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India (GOI), on the eve of 77th Republic Day announced the names of the Punjab Police officers/officials, to be awarded with President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PMDS) and Medal for Meritorious Service (MMS).
Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Investigation (Lokpal) Punjab Vibhu Raj, Director Bureau of Investigation (BOI) Punjab LK Yadav and ADGP Jails Arun Pal Singh to be conferred with President’s Medal for Distinguished Service.
Similarly, an IPS Officer DIG Security Raj Bhawan Jasdev Singh Sidhu and five PPS officers including AIG SSG Randeep Singh Mann, DSP AGTF Rajan Parminder Singh, DSP Vigilance Bureau Navdeep Singh, ACP PBI Amritsar Sapinder Kaur and DSP SPU Harinderdeep Singh are among 15 officers/officials who have been selected for the Medal for Meritorious Service. The remaining officials include Inspector Sukhjit Singh, Inspector Harish Kumar, Lady Inspector Manjit Kaur, Inspector Talwinder Singh, Inspector Rajinder Kumar, Inspector Pritpal Singh, Lady Sub-Inspector (SI) Dharamjit Kaur, SI Bhupinder Singh and ASI Swaranjit Kaur.
Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, while congratulating the awardees, expressed gratitude to the Central Government and State Government for recognising the services of these officers and boosting the morale of the entire Punjab Police force. He said that such recognition plays a significant role in encouraging the Police force to work with more dedication and devotion, which is pivotal in a border state having manifold security challenges.
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*FIVE PUNJAB POLICE OFFICERS/OFFICIALS TO BE AWARDED CHIEF MINISTER'S RAKSHAK PADAK AWARD*
*— FOUR PPS OFFICERS AMONG 19 PUNJAB POLICE OFFICIALS TO BE CONFERRED WITH CHIEF MINISTER'S MEDAL FOR OUTSTANDING DEVOTION TO DUTY*
*— DGP GAURAV YADAV THANKS CM BHAGWANT SINGH MANN LED PUNJAB GOVT FOR RECOGNISING SERVICES OF PUNJAB POLICE*
CHANDIGARH, January 25:On the recommendations of the Punjab Government, the Governor of Punjab on Sunday announced the names of the Punjab Police officers/officials, to be awarded the Chief Minister’s Rakshak Padak award and Chief Minister’s Medal for Outstanding Devotion to Duty on the occasion of Republic Day-2026.
The Governor of Punjab announced the names of one PPS officer DSP Sunam Udham Singh Wala Harvinder Singh and four police officials including Inspector Nirmal Singh, Head Constable Sukhmanpreet Singh, ASI Balbir Chand and Senior Constable Dharampal Singh for Chief Minister's Rakshak Padak award.
Similarly, four PPS officers including AIG SPU Baljit Singh, SP Headquarters Faridkot Manvinderbir Singh, DSP Investigation Daljit Singh and SP Davinder Kumar are among 19 officers/officials who have been selected for the Chief Minister’s Medal for Outstanding Devotion to Duty. The remaining officials include Inspector Mandeep Singh, Inspector Rushika, Inspector Prabhjot Kaur, Inspector Kulwant Singh, Inspector Sumit Mor, Inspector Pushvinder Singh, SI Gurpal Singh, SI Bhupinder Singh, ASI Gurjant Singh, ASI Gurvir Singh, ASI Gurpreet Singh, ASI Kuljit Singh, HC Mandeep Singh, HC Sukhwinder Singh and Senior Constable Anu Bala.
Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav congratulated the awardees and thanked the Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Singh Mann for recognizing the services of the Punjab Police officers/officials. He said that such recognitions play a significant role in encouraging the Police force to work with more dedication and devotion.