*Punjab Govt Giving Wings To Dreams Of Youth: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*We Have Set Up Startup Centre To Turn Youth Ideas Into Reality: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Ideas Of Schools Of Eminence Students Are Excellent; Govt Getting Them Patented: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Working To Make Punjab Hub Of Industry, Investment And Innovation: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Govt Focused On Creating Opportunities For Youth To Showcase Their Talent: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Under ‘Business Blasters’ Programme, Govt Provides Financial Support To Students To Pursue Their Ideas: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Addresses ISB Leadership Summit In Mohali As Chief Guest*

\SAS NAGAR (MOHALI); 19th September 2026:Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said his government is giving wings to the dreams of the state’s youth by creating a robust ecosystem of opportunities, financial support and institutional backing to turn their ideas into reality. During the ISB Leadership Summit-2026 at the Mohali campus of the Indian School of Business (ISB), being held on the theme “India Unbound: Defining Tomorrow’s Leadership,” as Chief Guest, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab’s youth have no dearth of talent or energy, and the government is focused on providing them the right platform to showcase their abilities, build enterprises and create employment.

Expressing gratitude to Chairman, ISB Harish Manwani, Dean ISB Professor Madan, distinguished personalities from the academic and business world and students, he congratulated ISB on completing 25 years and said institutions like ISB are playing a major role in giving the right direction to the immense energy of the youth. He said the government has established a Startup Centre to turn innovative ideas into reality, while the ‘Business Blasters’ programme provides seed money to students and promising ideas from Schools of Eminence are being taken forward for patents. Calling upon industrialists and investors to invest in Punjab, he said the state is being developed as a hub of industry, investment and innovation.

Sharing a few snippets from this occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Attended the ISB Leadership Summit in Mohali and congratulated the institution on completing 25 years. Esteemed institutions like ISB are playing a major role in giving the right direction to the immense energy of our youth. There is no dearth of talent among our youth; what is needed is to give them the right wings to fly. With this vision, we have established Schools of Eminence in Punjab, where students are being provided seed money to develop new business ideas. Punjabis have achieved success across the world through their hard work. I invite all industrialists to invest to the maximum in this blessed land of Gurus and saints. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Addressing the ISB Leadership Summit-2026, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the future belongs to societies willing to innovate, take calculated risks and convert emerging opportunities into sustainable growth. “The ISB Leadership Summit is the institution’s flagship annual leadership conclave, bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, innovators and students to deliberate on leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship and opportunities shaping India’s future,” he added.

The Chief Minister Chief Minister stated, “It is a matter of immense honour, pleasure and pride for me to participate in the summit. I extend a warm welcome to all of you from the state government.” Congratulating the students and the entire ISB team for organising the summit, he said that bringing together leading minds from academia, business, entrepreneurship and public policy provides a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and shaping the leadership of tomorrow.

Referring to the theme “India Unbound: Defining Tomorrow’s Leadership”, he said it was highly relevant in the present era of rapid transformation. “India today has immense potential because of its young population, technological capabilities and growing economic aspirations, but opportunities do not automatically translate into outcomes. True leadership is about identifying opportunities amid challenges. Opportunities have to be converted into results through a visionary approach, investment and the courage to take risks.”

He said India is steadily emerging as a global engine of growth and institutions like ISB have an important role in preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs, professionals and business leaders who can lead this transformation.

Lauding the Indian School of Business, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “ISB has established itself as a globally recognised institution in management education in a relatively short span of time. The success of ISB mirrors the aspirations of a young India that is increasingly confident, ambitious and willing to compete at the global level.” He added, “ISB is not merely producing degree holders but is helping create leaders who can build businesses, institutions and solutions for the future.”

The Chief Minister said the presence of ISB in Mohali is a matter of great pride for Punjab and that the institution is contributing to the creation of an ecosystem of knowledge, research, talent, entrepreneurship and investment in the state. “Mohali is rapidly transforming into an important centre for technology, entrepreneurship and innovation,” he said, while highlighting the Startup Incubator at Kalkat Bhawan and adding that the state government is ready to extend institutional support to emerging entrepreneurs and innovative ventures.

He said, “Punjab has immense potential to become a destination for startups, technology-driven enterprises and new-age industries. The objective of the state government is clear that the youth of Punjab should not have to leave the state in search of opportunities.” He added, “We want to create an ecosystem where young people can dream, innovate, start businesses and create jobs right here in Punjab.”

Highlighting the state government’s efforts to inculcate an entrepreneurial mindset among students from an early age, the Chief Minister said that the government has launched the ‘Business Blasters’ programme across Schools of Eminence. “Under this ambitious programme to produce Captains of Industry and Entrepreneurs, students are provided seed money to develop and pursue their business ideas. Entrepreneurship should not be viewed merely as a career option but as a means of creating employment and solving real-life problems,” he added.

Urging the students to think beyond conventional career paths, the Chief Minister said, “Focus on building solutions that can create value for society. Since inception, Punjab is a land of enterprise, hard work and courage.” He said courage, hard work, perseverance and an entrepreneurial spirit are deeply embedded in the character of Punjab.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab has a rich and glorious heritage associated with the great Gurus, saints, spiritual leaders and martyrs. Courage, hard work, perseverance and an entrepreneurial spirit are deeply embedded in the character of Punjab, which makes us a world leader.”

The Chief Minister said Punjab has contributed immensely to the nation, from safeguarding the country’s borders to ensuring its food security. “Punjab takes pride in being known as the ‘Food Bowl and Sword Arm of India’. The state has produced generations of farmers, entrepreneurs, industrialists, professionals and business leaders who have made their mark not only in India but across the world,” he said.

He added, “The hardworking nature of Punjabis has created a strong bond between entrepreneurs, industry and the working class, providing a solid foundation for economic growth.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab will always remain proud of its agrarian identity, but industrialisation is equally essential for generating employment, boosting investment and ensuring sustainable economic growth. “The government is working to create a business environment where entrepreneurs can invest with confidence and where innovation can flourish,” he said.

The Chief Minister said, “Punjab may be an agrarian state, but for the next phase of growth, industries must also come to Punjab. Agriculture and industry have to move forward together.”

Referring to the state’s Industrial Policy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The government has focused on creating a transparent and investor-friendly framework. When government policy, private investment, entrepreneurial energy and the knowledge ecosystem of institutions such as ISB come together, Punjab can unlock enormous possibilities.”

Telling the students that leadership is not merely about occupying positions of authority, the Chief Minister said, “Leadership is about taking initiative, bringing people together, solving problems and creating opportunities for others.” He urged the ISB students to remain curious, ask difficult questions and learn from challenges rather than avoiding them.

“Think about the problems you can solve, the institutions you can build and the opportunities you can create for others,” he said, adding, “The real measure of leadership is not how many people follow you, but how many opportunities you are able to create for others.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed hope that ISB’s alumni will continue to contribute to Punjab’s economic development by investing in the state, mentoring young entrepreneurs, supporting innovation and creating employment opportunities.

The Chief Minister said, “Punjab is ready to partner with industry, academia, entrepreneurs and investors to build a stronger and more prosperous future.” Giving a call to the youth to become partners in Punjab’s transformation, he urged them to join hands to build an India and a Punjab for the next 25 years that are driven by new ideas, bold initiatives, ambitious goals and determined action.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann extended his best wishes for the success of the ISB Leadership Summit-2026 and said, “Platforms such as these will help shape the ideas, leadership and institutions that will define India’s next chapter of growth.”

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*On October 1, Women’s Mobiles Will Ring Again With ‘Toon-Toon’ Of Sanman Rashi: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Giving Dalit Women ₹1,500 Per Month, ₹500 More Than Promised ₹1,000: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*How Can BJP, Which Is Responsible For Deaths Of 750 Farmers, Come To Punjab & Seek Votes? CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*We’ve Proved Prediction That Punjab Would Turn Into Desert Wrong By Reviving Groundwater Levels: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Closed All Doors To Corruption & Spending Public Money For Public Welfare: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Addresses Lok Milni In Balian, Sangrur*

DHURI (SANGRUR); 19th September 2026:Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said his government was delivering direct benefits to women and ordinary families while putting public money to work for Punjab’s development. During a Lok Milni in Balian, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said women would once again hear the ‘Toon-Toon’ notification of Sanman Rashi reaching their phones on October 1, with Dalit women receiving ₹1,500 per month against the promised ₹1,000.

Questioning the BJP seeking votes in Punjab, the Chief Minister asked how the BJP could seek public support after the deaths of 750 farmers, while asserting that his government had proved the prediction of Punjab turning into a desert wrong by reviving groundwater levels and closing all doors to corruption.

Addressing a massive gathering during the Lok Milni, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government had shifted the focus of governance towards ordinary citizens, farmers, youth, women and students. “Punjab had witnessed politics centered around a handful of families for decades. Today, ordinary people have started demanding accountability and development, and this is something that political parties which ruled Punjab for decades are finding difficult to accept. The opposition is united primarily because of its opposition to our government and our people-centric initiatives,” he said.

He said, “The same Akalis who once called the BJP anti-farmer and repeatedly criticised the party are now seeking its support. This shows how political circumstances can change when the only objective is to regain power. Those who had earlier made strong statements against each other are now exploring cooperation.”

The Chief Minister pointed out, “People of Punjab remember everything. They know who said what and when. Punjab has witnessed what I describe as two separate political Dussehras in the past, one of Congress and one of the Akalis. Both parties divided people for political purposes. Despite their public differences, they remained connected through their political and personal interests and befool the people in a big way.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Our political debate should now be about schools, hospitals, employment, electricity, irrigation, roads, sports infrastructure and opportunities for our youth. Punjab needs politics that talks about the issues affecting ordinary families.”

“Employment generation is one of our major priorities. Around 71,000 government jobs have been provided solely on merit. Not even a single person can point a finger at me and say that money was taken for giving a government job. The entire recruitment has been conducted on the principle of merit,” said the Chief Minister.

He added, “The purpose of providing employment is not merely to give a job. It is about giving young people dignity, economic independence and an opportunity to improve the standard of living of their families.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, We announced 300 units of free electricity per month for domestic consumers in 2022, and this scheme continues to provide substantial relief to households. Public resources should be used to directly benefit citizens. Strengthening Punjab’s own power infrastructure is essential for ensuring energy security and meeting the state’s requirements. The Guru Gobind Singh Super Thermal Power Plant at Lehra Mohabbat is an important part of Punjab’s power infrastructure.”

The Chief Minister stated, “We are wisely using public money. When public money reaches the people instead of being lost through fiscal slippage, roads, schools, hospitals and other public works can be taken up. Government programmes are meaningful only when their benefits reach ordinary families.”

“Mothers have told me that the financial assistance being provided to them is being used for their children’s education fees, household requirements and other essential expenses. This is the purpose of welfare programmes, to provide direct support to families,” he said.

The Chief Minister announced, “On October 1, the Toon-Toon of the notification on women’s phones will ring again and mothers will get the benefit of the Maavan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna.”

He pointed out, “Congress and Akali Dal are opposing several schemes announced by our government. Some opposition leaders have talked about stopping government schemes if they return to power. Political parties should instead tell the people what they propose to do for Punjab rather than merely criticising existing programmes.”

“Punjab’s water crisis is a question of our future. We have undertaken major work to shift agriculture towards canal irrigation and reduce dependence on groundwater. Approximately 14,000 km of pipelines have been laid as part of this irrigation push, and canal-water utilisation has increased substantially,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

The Chief Minister noted, “Canal irrigation utilisation has increased from around 22% to 88%, while groundwater levels have improved by one to five metres in several areas. We have proved the prediction that Punjab would turn into a desert wrong by raising groundwater levels,” he said.

“Water conservation is not merely an agricultural issue. It is a question of Punjab’s future. Scientists have warned that Punjab’s groundwater crisis could have serious consequences. We have ensured that our farmers receive canal water and that every drop of groundwater is used responsibly,” he added.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “We have invested heavily in irrigation infrastructure. The government has previously put this investment at about ₹6,700 crore, along with 14,000 km of pipelines and watercourses.”

The Chief Minister pointed out, “Education is another area where we have attempted to bring structural change. When I assumed office, Punjab was ranked 27th in education indicators. Due to the strenuous efforts of our government, Punjab has subsequently reached the top position in the NITI Aayog education assessment. Our teachers are being sent for training programmes at institutions and locations including Finland, Singapore and IIMs. Schools of Eminence have also been established to provide our students with better academic opportunities.”

“The transformation of government schools can be measured through the performance of our students in national-level competitive examinations. As per the 2026 NEET results, 882 students from Punjab government schools qualified, compared to around 80 in 2021,” said the Chief Minister.

He noted, “Behind these numbers are families of ordinary people. Their parents run small shops, work as labourers, drive rickshaws or sell vegetables. When their children become doctors and engineers, the entire family moves forward.”

“Government schools must ensure that children from economically weaker families receive the same opportunity to compete with students from expensive private institutions. Education and employment are among the most effective ways of enabling families to move out of poverty,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The affection shown by people during my visits is a source of strength for me. Such affection cannot be measured in monetary terms. My turban is filled with flowers because of the love of the people, and this love has no price and cannot be measured in any currency.”

The Chief Minister stated, “Under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojna, buses are regularly taking pilgrims to religious places across the country. Many beneficiaries express their gratitude upon returning. These programmes are about making opportunities and facilities accessible to ordinary people.”

“The problems facing Punjab have accumulated over decades and cannot be resolved overnight. Roads, irrigation projects, schools, healthcare facilities, employment and sports infrastructure represent our effort to address issues affecting everyday life,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab is now moving towards a model in which young people can aspire to become doctors, engineers, officers, entrepreneurs and professionals rather than being pushed towards drugs or unemployment.”

“I appeal to people to remain alert to political claims made by different parties and assess governments on the basis of their work. Punjab belongs to its people and political parties should be accountable to them. Our government will continue to focus on education, employment, healthcare, irrigation, electricity, roads, sports and social welfare,” concluded CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

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*Dr. Baljit Kaur: ₹2,147 Crore Released for Old Age Pension During 2026-27; Over 24 Lakh Elderly Citizens Benefited Across Punjab*

*₹4,000 Crore Budget Provision for Current Fiscal Year Reflects Government’s Commitment Towards Social Security*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s Vision of Rangla Punjab: No Eligible Senior Citizen to be Deprived of Pension Benefits*

Chandigarh, September 19:Reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment towards ensuring dignity, security and social support for senior citizens, Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that around ₹2,147 crore has been released so far under the Old Age Pension Scheme during the current financial year 2026-27, benefiting more than 24 lakh elderly citizens across the State.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the timely release of pension assistance reflects the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government’s resolve to provide transparent, accountable and people-centric governance, ensuring that welfare benefits reach deserving beneficiaries without delay. She added that the scheme has emerged as an important support system for elderly citizens, helping them meet their daily needs and live a life of dignity and self-respect.

The Cabinet Minister informed that the State Government has made a budgetary provision of ₹4,000 crore for the Old Age Pension Scheme during 2026-27, demonstrating its sustained focus on strengthening the social security framework and protecting the interests of vulnerable sections of society.

Highlighting the vision of ‘Rangla Punjab’, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Punjab Government is committed to building an inclusive and compassionate society where every citizen feels secure and valued. She categorically stated that no eligible senior citizen will be deprived of old age pension benefits, and all possible steps are being taken to ensure timely delivery of assistance to every deserving beneficiary.

The Minister directed all District Social Security Officers and concerned officials to ensure prompt verification of applications, timely approval of eligible cases and smooth disbursement of pension within the prescribed timeline. She instructed officials to proactively identify genuine beneficiaries and address any hurdles faced by applicants so that no eligible elderly person suffers due to procedural delays.

Appealing to eligible senior citizens and their family members, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged them to complete the required formalities and contact the nearest Social Security offices to avail the benefits of the scheme. She also appealed to Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies and community organisations to assist in identifying eligible beneficiaries and spreading awareness about the scheme, ensuring that the benefits reach every deserving household.

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*Bhagat Chuni Lal: A leader who kept his doors open to all will always remain alive in hearts of millions*

*People to bid farewell to veteran leader at Shardhanjali Sabha on September 20*

Chandigarh /Jalandhar , September 19.With the passing of veteran leader and former Cabinet Minister Bhagat Chuni Lal at the age of 93, Punjab has lost one of its most steadfast, humble and principled public figures. A prominent face of Punjab’s politics and a senior leader representing the Dalit community in Doaba, Bhagat Chuni Lal leaves behind a legacy defined by ethical governance, deep-rooted grassroots connections and a life dedicated to serving the people.

Throughout his decades-long political career, Bhagat Chuni Lal remained guided by an unwavering commitment to humility and public service. Rising from modest beginnings to key leadership positions in the state, he held vital portfolios in the Punjab government, including Local Bodies, Medical Education, and Forest & Wildlife Preservation, and discharged his responsibilities with characteristic calm and dignity.

During his time in public life, Bhagat Chuni Lal stood out for his impeccable record. He always emphasised that personal integrity was non-negotiable. “Position and power are temporary privileges granted by the people,” he noted. “What remains is your work, your character, and how cleanly you served those who placed their faith in you.”

His political career was deeply intertwined with the development of Jalandhar and the broader Doaba region. As a multi-term Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Jalandhar West, he was widely respected across party lines for keeping his home and office accessible to people. He would frequently highlight that his primary duty was to listen to the common citizen — a practice he maintained consistently throughout his decades in office.

Reflecting on his approach to public administration, the former minister stressed the importance of transparency and equity in urban development and public health infrastructure. During his stewardship of the Local Bodies and Medical Education departments, he advocated for strengthening municipal services, improving sanitation and expanding medical infrastructure in underserved areas. He often reminded party workers and officers that policy measures must deliver tangible benefits to the weakest sections of society.

Beyond his administrative achievements, Bhagat Chuni Lal was remembered as a unifying leader within his community and party. Even during times of political turbulence, his calm demeanour and measured words earned him respect from both allies and political opponents. He viewed politics not as an arena for personal ambition, but as a moral responsibility to uplift marginalised communities and foster social harmony.

As news of his passing spread, leaders across the political spectrum expressed profound grief, hailing him as a pillar of dedication and public service. His life story remains a reminder of an era of governance anchored in humility, hard work and unwavering ethics. Bhagat Chuni Lal’s contributions to Punjab’s political landscape and his steadfast devotion to the people of Jalandhar leave an enduring mark on the state’s public memory.

Carrying forward this rich tradition of public service, his son, Mohinder Bhagat, is serving as a Cabinet Minister in the Punjab government and continuing his father’s legacy of public service.

To honour the late leader’s extraordinary life and pay collective tribute to him, Bhagat Chuni Lal’s Shardhanjali Sabha (memorial service) will be held on Sunday, September 20, between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM at MS Farm, Basti Peer Dad, Jalandhar.