PUNJAB GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL TO UNDERSTAND SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL FEELINGS OF EVERY STRATA OF SOCIETY: CM
UNFURLS NATIONAL TRI-COLOUR DURING STATE LEVEL INDEPENDENCE DAY FUNCTION AT FARIDKOT
RECALLS STELLAR ROLE OF PUNJABIS IN NATIONAL FREEDOM STRUGGLE
ASSERTS THAT STATE GOVERNMENT DUTY BOUND TO FULFIL DREAMS OF MARTYRS
SHOWCASES SECTOR WISE DEVELOPMENT OF STATE ALONG WITH PRO-PEOPLE INITIATIVES OF PUNJAB GOVERNMENT
Faridkot, August 16:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday gave a clarion call to the Punjabis for resolving to restore the pristine glory of the state by making it a frontrunner one in the country thereby carving out a vibrant and prosperous ‘Rangla Punjab’.
Addressing the gathering after unfurling national tri-colour, during the state level function to mark Independence Day here at local Jawahar Lal Nehru stadium here today, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to all countrymen, especially Punjabis. He also paid respects and reverence to the great Sufi saint Baba Farid Ji on the sacred land of Faridkot. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Baba Farid Ji is considered the first great poet of Punjabi literature as he composed his verses in the language of the common people.
The Chief Minister said that unique and unparalleled role of Punjabis in the Indian Independence struggle hardly needs to be over emphasized. He said that it is on record that more than 80% of the great patriots who laid down their lives or were subjected to British tyranny in one form or another were Punjabis. In fact, Bhagwant Singh Mann most of the movements related to the freedom struggle were spearheaded by the valiant Punjabis for bringing centuries-old British imperialism to an end.
The Chief Minister said that great martyrs and sons of the soil Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Diwan Singh Kalepani, Baba Ram Singh, Sohan Singh Bhakna and several other unsung heroes shed every drop of their blood while pursuing the ultimate goal of Independence. He said that supreme sacrifices made by the great warriors in the various movements of the country's freedom struggle viz. Kuka, Ghadar, Babbar Akali, Agrarian, Kama Gata Maru episode, Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Liberation of Gurdwaras movement, Jaito morcha and the Parja Mandal movement would ever remain a source of inspiration to inculcate the spirit of patriotism and nationalism amongst our younger generations. But, Bhagwant Singh Mann bemoaned that even when the rest of the country was celebrating Independence, Punjab was going through the horrors of a violent partition in which lakhs of Punjabis lost their lives, were rendered homeless, and many more lost their lands and properties.
The Chief Minister said that even after Independence, Punjabis led the nation from the front whenever India faced any challenge from internal or external aggression. He said that it is a known fact that the hard working and resilient farmers of the state have played a crucial role in making the country self reliant in food production. Bhagwant Singh Mann also proudly eulogized the outstanding contribution of Punjabis in zealously safeguarding and preserving India's hard-earned independence and ushering in an era of overall development, peace and prosperity.
The Chief Minister said that it is a matter of great pride and satisfaction that whenever the sovereignty of our nation has faced any threat from external and internal aggression, the brave Punjabis have relentlessly come forward with great enthusiasm to protect the integrity and honour of the nation. He said that Independence Day being an occasion of joy and celebrations is also a moment for introspection and setting of new goals for faster development of the State. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged people to rededicate themselves to fulfill the dreams of our freedom fighters by ensuring a harmonious and egalitarian society.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the commitment of his government to strengthen peace and communal harmony in Punjab. He said that the state is fortunate to have got the opportunity to celebrate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that programs dedicated to Guru Sahib Ji’s martyrdom are being organized, and developmental plans are being prepared for towns and villages blessed by his footprints.
The Chief Minister said that the state government has taken historic and bold decisions for the development and progress of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is working with dedication to fulfill the dreams of our martyrs. He said that the state government has fulfilled many guarantees during the last three and a half years.
Listing the path breaking initiatives taken by the state government, the Chief Minister said that the state government has launched a historic scheme ‘Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna’, under which each family will receive free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh — whether at a government or private hospital. He said that this scheme will include farmers, traders, government employees, and pensioners with no income limit adding that it will benefit 3 crore people of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that there are 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics currently running, where 70,000 people get treated daily adding that 200 more clinics will be opened soon.
The Chief Minister said that to provide quality education, government schools are being upgraded to Schools of Eminence and it is a proud moment that Punjab has ranked first in the National Achievement Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing even Kerala. He said that 848 government school students have qualified for the NEET exam, 265 students cleared JEE Mains, and 45 cleared JEE Advanced exam. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this year, girls students topped in 8th, 10th, and 12th results and the state government is providing transport facility to ferry students especially girls in government schools.
The Chief Minister said that Principals and teachers are being sent to prestigious institutes in Singapore, Finland, and Ahmedabad for training. He said that 115 government schools have been named after freedom fighters, martyrs, and prominent figures. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that keeping in mind the demand for skill-based education, the number of ITI seats in the state has been increased from 35,000 to 52,000.
Reiterating that Punjab is fighting a full-fledged war against drugs, the Chief Minister profusely thanked all Punjabis for supporting the state government in this noble cause. He said that previous governments patronized drug mafias, causing widespread addiction, adding that his government has launched a crackdown against drugs in the form of Yudh Nasheyan Virudh ‘War Against Drugs’. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the drug supply network has almost been dismantled, drug dealers are being dealt with strictly and bulldozers have razed their properties .
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CM FELICITATES 26 EMINENT PERSONALITIES WITH STATE AWARD
ALSO CONFERS CHIEF MINISTER’S RAKSHAK PADAK AND CHIEF MINISTER’S MEDAL FOR OUTSTANDING DUTY TO UPON 19 POLICE OFFICERS
Faridkot, August 16:On the occasion of Independence Day, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann conferred state awards to 26 eminent personalities for their outstanding contribution in various fields besides bestowing Chief Minister’s Rakshak Padak on four police officers/officials and Chief Minister’s Medal for Outstanding Duty to 15 cops.
These state awardees included social activists, artistes, litterateurs, poets, environmentalists and government officials and others, who have made outstanding contribution in their respective fields in the larger public interests.
The Chief Minister conferred Certificate and award, during a state level function to mark Independence Day here today, to Dr Anupama Gupta (Amritsar), Master Tegbir Singh (Roopnagar), Sarupinder Singh (Patiala), Ratan Lal Soni (Hoshiarpur), Dr Hitender Suri (Fatehgarh Sahib), Gulshan Bhatia (Amritsar), Rifat Wahab (Malerkotla), Rama Munjal (Ludhiana), Baldev Kumar (Hoshiarpur), Apeksha (Bathinda), Gulzar Singh Patialvi (Patiala), Baldev Singh (Patiala), Balraj Singh (Hoshiarpur), Paramjit Singh Bakhshi (Jalandhar), Yuvraj Singh Chauhan (Ludhiana), Krishan Kumar Paswan (Bathinda), Advocate Rajiv Madan (Amritsar), Jaskaran Singh (Bathinda), Dr Pawan Kumar (Hoshiarpur), Dr Harbhans Kaur (Hoshiarpur), Dr. Raj Kumar (Hoshiarpur), Dr Mahima Minhas (Hoshiarpur), Nisha Rani (Hoshiarpur), Dr PS Brar (Kotakpura), Dr. Ravi Bansal (Kotakpura) and Dr. Abhinav Shoor (Jalandhar).
The Chief Minister also honoured four police officers/officials including Rajinder Singh ASI, Narinder Singh ASI, Senior Constable Jaswant Singh and Harpal Kaur with the prestigious Chief Minister’s Rakshak Padak. Bhagwant Singh Mann also conferred Chief Minister’s Medal for Outstanding Duty to 15 cops including Jatin Kapoor Inspector, Amalokdeep Singh Kahlon Inspector, Navneet kaur Inspector, Prabhjeet kumar Inspector, Lovedeep Singh SI, Gurmel Singh SI, Dimple Kumar SI, Sukhchain Singh SI, Satwinder Singh SI, Harjinder Singh ASI, Sandeep Singh ASI, Head Constable Sandeep Singh, Head Constable Iqbal Singh, Head Constable Karambir Singh and Head Constable Jagjit Singh.
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‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’: ON DAY 168, PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS RAIDS AT 301 SITES; 38 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD
— OPERATION LEADS TO REGISTRATION OF 28 FIRs, RECOVERY OF 620GMs HEROIN
— AS PART OF ‘DE-ADDICTION’, PUNJAB POLICE CONVINCE 33 PERSONS TO UNDERGO DE-ADDICTION TREATMENT
CHANDIGARH, August 16:Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 168th day, Punjab Police conducted raids at 301 locations on Saturday leading to the arrest of 38 drug smugglers after registration of 28 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 25,909 in 168 days.
The raids have resulted in recovery of 620 grams heroin and 1612 intoxicant tablets/capsules from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.
The operation was conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav simultaneously in all 28 Police districts of the state.
Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. The Punjab government has also constituted a 5-member Cabinet Sub Committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema to monitor the war against drugs.
Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla informed that over 100 Police teams, comprising over 900 police personnel, under the supervision of 70 gazetted officers have conducted raids across the state. Police teams have also checked as many as 316 suspicious persons during the day-long operation, he added.
The Special DGP said that with the state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of 'De-addiction’ has convinced 33 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.
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Punjabis made a lot of sacrifices during the country's freedom struggle, Says Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora
District level Independence Day function celebrated at Police Lines Sangrur
Cabinet Minister performed the flag hoisting ceremony
Presentation of cultural program by school students
Honoring of personalities who have rendered distinguished contributions in various fields
Honoring of freedom fighters and their heirs also
Formation of sectoral committees to make Punjab a developed state in the industrial sector
Chandigarh/ Sangrur 16 August 2025:We are the citizens of a free country due to the various movements held for the country's Independence and the struggles made from time to time by Shaheed-e-Azam S. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, S. Kartar Singh Sarabha, Shaheed Udham Singh, Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpat Rai, Diwan Singh Kalepani and other freedom fighters. We are proud that Punjabis had made a lot of sacrifices during the country's freedom struggle. These views were expressed by Cabinet Minister Shri Sanjeev Arora while addressing the district level Independence Day function held at Police Line Stadium, Sangrur.
He said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann took the oath of office at Khatkar Kalan, the native village of Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh, and at the same time decided that the pictures of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and the architect of the Constitution Babasaheb Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar should be installed in the Government offices. Mohali International Airport was also named after Shaheed Bhagat Singh and a statue of Shaheed Bhagat Singh has also been installed there.
Expansion of Aam Aadmi clinics, new ambulances, free electricity, easy registry, cleaning of ponds and tanks in all villages, war against drugs, campaign against corruption, construction of rural playgrounds, giving preparation allowances to sportspersons before jobs and major sports competitions, health insurance of Rs 10 lakh for all and formation of industrialists' committees for the development of industries of Punjab for the first time since Independence- these are major decisions of Punjab Government with which Punjab is taking steps towards adding feathers in his cap of progress, he added.
This year, the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib will be observed on a grand scale by the Punjab Government. State-level events will be organized from November 19 to November 25. Under the initiative of the Forest Department, there is a plan to plant 3.50 lakh saplings in each district during 2025-26 under ‘Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Hariyaval Sankalp’. Apart from this, 52 ‘Sacred Forests’ will be established as part of the ‘Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Pavitra Van’ scheme.
The Punjab Government has ensured uninterrupted power supply to agriculture for more than 08 hours during the current paddy season. Punjab has performed the best in the National Achievement Survey (NAS) 2024 and has secured the first position, surpassing states like Kerala. To further raise the standard of education, 118 government senior secondary schools are being converted into 'Schools of Eminence'.
As part of the third phase of the "War Against Drugs" campaign, a unique anti-drug curriculum has been launched in all government schools for students of classes IX to XII, under which about 08 lakh students are being informed about the ill effects of drugs and how to avoid them. The Punjab Government has named 115 government schools after freedom fighters, martyrs and internationally renowned personalities.
The Punjab Government has launched the Business Blast program, under which students of class XI-XII are being encouraged to become entrepreneurs and start their own business and seed money of Rs. 10.32 crore was given to the students. For the first time in the state, a Business Blast Expo was organized at Ropar. In view of the demand for vocational training, the government has increased the number of seats in ITIs to 52,000, which was earlier 35,000.
The Punjab Government has taken a unique initiative to make Punjab a developed state in the industrial sector. 24 sectoral committees have been formed so that further improvements can be made in the industrial policy.
OTS scheme has also been implemented for industries, which has resolved the issues of industrialists that have been going on for decades. Apart from this, the policy of converting leasehold of industrial plots/sheds into freehold has also been implemented. Invest Punjab has established an online portal, under which all types of clearances will be given within 45 days for setting up any industry in Punjab.
Punjab has set a new record by registering a net 28.26 percent growth in GST revenue during the first four months of the financial year 2025-26. The net GST revenue till July of the current financial year has reached Rs 9188 crore, which is Rs 2025 crore more than the same period of the financial year 2024-25. This impressive performance is part of the state's continuous trend of registering record-breaking year-on-year growth in tax revenue for the last three and a half years.
The ‘Bill Bacho, Enam Paho’ initiative, launched to reward vigilant consumers as well as further strengthen the state’s tax enforcement framework, witnessed a huge participation from the people under which a total of 1,76,832 bills were uploaded on the ‘Mera Bill App’ till July 2025. This resulted in 5,644 winners winning prizes worth over Rs 3.35 crore and fine of over Rs 9 crore being imposed against entities found guilty of irregularities in issuing bills.
The Punjab government has also made the labor laws for pro-worker. Apart from this, 1.55 lakh construction workers and their families have been covered under the Chief Minister's Health Insurance Scheme.
In view of the upcoming paddy procurement season, adequate arrangements will be ensured till September 15. Preparations are in full swing on a war footing level for the procurement of 190 lakh metric tonnes of paddy.
This is the first time that a drive has been made to provide canal water to every farm. The expenditure on canal and water works has more than doubled in the last three and a half years, i.e. Rs 4557 crore, while only Rs 2046 crore was spent from 2019 to 2022.
The Punjab Government will start the process of filling 5000 vacant posts (workers and helpers) to strengthen Anganwadi centers in the month of September.
For Sangrur district, the Punjab Government led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann has so far released about Rs 2287 crore 31 lakh for about 4917 different development works, with which a large number of development works in the district have been completed and a large number of development works are being carried out on a war footing level.
On this occasion, the Cabinet Minister Shri. Sanjeev Arora inspected the parade and distributed sewing machines and tricycles to the needy people and personalities who have made unique contributions in various fields were also honored. Freedom fighters and their heirs were also honored.
During this function, a grand march past was performed by the contingents of Punjab Police, Punjab Home Guards and NCC Cadets from different schools. A cultural program was presented by the students of different schools. On this occasion, Cabinet Minister Shri Sanjeev Arora also attended the blood donation camp organized by the Lions Club and encouraged the blood donors.
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Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan unfurls the tricolor on the occasion of Independence Day
All-round development of the state is taking place under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann
Punjab Government is committed to provide facilities related to health, sports and education to the people
Government has taken important steps to solve the problems of the people
Patriotic and cultural programs become the center of attraction during the function
District level Independence Day celebration organized at Cantt Board Stadium, Ferozepur Cantonment
Chandigarh/Ferozpur 16 August 2025:A district-level Independence Day celebration was organized at the Cantt Board Stadium, Ferozepur Cantonment, in which the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan was the chief guest of the function and performed the ceremony of hoisting the national flag. On this occasion, he took salute from the contingents of BSF, Punjab Police, Punjab Police Women Wing, Punjab Home Guard, NCC, Scouts and Guides. Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma and S. Bhupinder Singh Sidhu were specially present on this occasion.
In his message to the residents of the district, the Chief Guest Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan said that our country has become independent due to the unique sacrifices/struggles of numerous martyrs and freedom fighters and we pay tribute to the freedom fighters and all the martyrs, heroes and warriors who participated in various freedom movements on this occasion. He said that the Punjab Government, which came into existence with the huge support of the people of Punjab, is carrying out all-round development of the state under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. He said that the Punjab Government has taken historic decisions like eradication of corruption, drugs, Farishtay scheme and electricity waiver, which have yielded remarkable results.
He said that every part of the land of Punjab is full of sacrifices of martyrs and Ferozepur district has the honor of being the land of martyrs. He said that Punjabis made immense sacrifices in the country's freedom struggle, which the entire country is proud of them. He said that the land of Ferozepur has been the main center of the activities of the great martyrs of our country.
Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan said that the Punjab Government is implementing major schemes for the upliftment and development of every section of the state including education, health facilities, sports, farmers, labourers, traders and the common people. He said that Punjab will be made the leading state of the country in terms of development . He said that the Punjab Government has given 55 thousand Government jobs to the people of Punjab which have been given to the capable youths on the basis of pure merit without any recommendation. He said that while continuing the facility of free travel for women in Government buses, the Government has spent more than Rs. 470 crore for free travel on women of the state from April 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. He said that under the Education Revolution, infrastructure development projects worth Rs 2000/- crore have been spent in 12,000 Government schools of the state to bring about a revolutionary change in the education system. He said that the government has restored 79 canals covering a length of 545 km to provide water to every farm, which will provide canal water to 41,135 acres of land.
Earlier, Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan also paid tribute to the national martyrs at Shaheedi Smarak Hussainiwala. On this occasion, he said that it is because of these great martyrs that we are enjoying freedom today.
In this event, personalities who have achieved laurels in various fields, freedom fighters, families of Kargil martyrs, sportspersons, students, prominent panchayats, officers, employees, etc. were honored by the chief guest. During the event, apart from a colorful cultural program reflecting patriotism, Punjabi folk dances Giddha and Bhangra were also performed.
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PUNJABIS MADE MAXIMUM SACRIFICES DURING FREEDOM STRUGGLE: HARDEEP SINGH MUNDIAN
ON 79TH INDEPENDENCE DAY, CABINET MINISTER HOISTS NATIONAL FLAG IN GURDASPUR
SPECTACULAR MARCH PAST BY PUNJAB POLICE, PUNJAB HOME GUARD AND NCC CADETS LEAVES AUDIENCE SPELLBOUND
HONOURS FAMILIES OF FREEDOM FIGHTERS, WAR WIDOWS AND MARTYRS
Chandigarh/Gurdaspur, August 16:The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with pomp and show at the Shaheed Lieutenant Navdeep Singh (Ashok Chakra) Stadium of Government College, Gurdaspur, wherein Revenue, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management, Water Supply and Sanitation, Housing and Urban Development Minister S. Hardeep Singh Mundian hoisted the National Flag. Earlier, the Cabinet Minister paid floral tributes to the martyrs at the statue of Shaheed Lieutenant Navdeep Singh and at the martyrs' gallery situated in the stadium.
While addressing the gathering during the district-level function, S. Hardeep Singh Mundian extended greetings to the people of Gurdaspur, saying that "We are inhabitants of a free country only because of the various movements and struggles waged for the nation's independence by Shaheed-e-Azam S. Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Sardar Kartar Singh Sarabha, Shaheed Udham Singh, Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpat Rai, Diwan Singh Kalapani and other freedom fighters." The Cabinet Minister categorically added, "We are proud that Punjabis made the maximum sacrifices during the nation's freedom struggle."
He said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann took oath of his office at Khatkar Kalan, the ancestral village of Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh and that portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and architect of the Constitution Baba Saheb Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar have been installed in government offices. Mohali International Airport has been named after Shaheed Bhagat Singh and a statue of Shaheed-e-Azam has been installed there.
Highlighting the state government's achievements, the Cabinet Minister said that the state government is providing 300 units of free electricity every month to residents, resulting in zero bills for 90% of consumers. He said that the Mann government has so far provided government jobs to more than 55,000 youth. A total of 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are successfully operating across the state and 200 more new clinics are being opened. Free medicines and free tests are conducted in these clinics.
S. Mundian informed, now the government has made a historic decision to provide health insurance of Rs.10 lakh for every state resident from October 2. He said that the 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' campaign is ongoing at war level and the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs and corruption.
While referring to the revenue reforms, the Cabinet Minister said that in the Revenue Department, nexuses were foiled by transferring officials from tehsildars to registry clerks. People are being provided convenient services through facilities such as Easy Registry and Easy Jamabandi. The state government has started 118 'Schools of Eminence' and under the "Sikhya Kranti", teachers have been sent abroad for specialized training.
S. Hardeep Singh Mundian further said that the state government is providing 100% piped water supply to rural households. He said farming is the backbone of our economy and the state government has revived 14,000 water courses to bring water to the tail ends.
He said that Punjab is the first state in the country to create a unique police force like Sadak Surakhiya Force (SSF), which is saving the lives of road accident victims. He said that investment is being promoted in the state and the OTS scheme has been introduced for industrialists. He said that a new sports policy has been created to develop a sports culture in the state. 'Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan' has been started and sports nurseries and playgrounds are being built in villages. In the last three and a half years, prize money of Rs.100 crores has been distributed to winners of Olympics, Asian, Commonwealth and National Games.
S. Mundian said that the state government is providing financial assistance of Rs.1 crore to the family of the martyr.
He said that this year marks the 350th martyrdom day of the ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, which the Punjab Government is going to celebrate on a grand scale with devotion.
He said that the Punjab Government is fully committed to the comprehensive development of Gurdaspur district. This border district has given Punjab and the country great renowned players, writers and soldiers. The state government has constructed 'Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Interstate Bus Terminal' in Gurdaspur at a cost of Rs14.92 crores. Besides this, an under railway bridge has been constructed on Tibbri Road at a cost of Rs.21 crores. A new tehsil complex and sub-tehsil office has been constructed in Dinanagar at a cost of Rs.9 crores. New tehsil complexes worth Rs.l6.61 crores in Kalanaur and Rs.11 crores in Batala have been constructed, which will soon be dedicated to the public. Nabipur drain has been concretized at a cost of Rs.5.70 crores. Over Rs.31 crores are being spent on health facilities at the district hospital. He said that 62 Aam Aadmi Clinics in the district are providing health services to district residents. The old closed civil hospital has been restarted and given the status of a Community Health Center. He said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government is determined to make the state 'Rangla Punjab, Hasda Khelda te in Khushaal Punjab' and continuous efforts are being made in this direction.
Earlier, S. Hardeep Singh Mundian, along with Deputy Commissioner Sh. Dalvinderjit Singh and SSP Sh. Aditya, inspected the parade contingents. Led by DSP Gurvinder Singh, Punjab Police personnel, women platoon, Punjab Home Guards, NCC contingents and Punjab Police band team performed a spectacular march past. During the ceremony, the Cabinet Minister specially honoured freedom fighters and their family members, war widows and martyrs' family members. Tricycles and sewing machines provided by the District Red Cross Society were distributed to needy individuals. Students from various educational institutions of the district presented spectacular programs filled with patriotism and Punjabi culture.
The Revenue Minister also handed over appointment letters to 18 patwaris appointed in Gurdaspur district. Assistant Commissioner (General) Sh. Aditya Gupta was specially honoured for exemplary services during Operation Sindhur. Subsequently, the chief guest specially honoured officers, employees, social workers, teachers, doctors, players and others who performed commendable work in the district.
During the ceremony, S. Hardeep Singh Mundian's wife Mrs. Simardeep Kaur, son Jashandeep Singh, daughters Agamdeep Kaur, Arshandeep Kaur, Komaldeep Kaur and nephew Prince Saini were also specially present.
District and Sessions Judge S. Dilbag Singh Jauhal, DIG S. Nanak Singh, Punjab Health Systems Corporation Chairman Sh. Raman Bahil, newly appointed District President and Chairman of District Planning Committee Gurdaspur Sh. Joban Randhawa, Lok Sabha constituency Gurdaspur in-charge and Chairman Town Improvement Trust Gurdaspur Sh. Rajiv Sharma, Sh. Shamsher Singh Dinanagar, Market Committee Gurdaspur Chairman Sh. Bharat Bhushan Sharma, Additional Deputy Commissioner (G) Dr. Harjinder Singh Bedi, Sub Divisional Officer Manjit Singh Rajla, SP Jugraj Singh, RTA Navjot Sharma, former PCS officer O.P. Varma and other officers and prominent personalities were also present on this occasion.
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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT HAD BEEN SUCCESSFUL TO UNDERSTAND SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL FEELINGS OF EVERY STRATA OF SOCIETY: CM
UNFURLS NATIONAL TRI-COLOUR DURING STATE LEVEL INDEPENDENCE DAY FUNCTION AT FARIDKOT
RECALLS STELLAR ROLE OF PUNJABIS IN NATIONAL FREEDOM STRUGGLE
ASSERTS THAT STATE GOVERNMENT DUTY BOUND TO FULFIL DREAMS OF MARTYRS
SHOWCASES SECTOR WISE DEVELOPMENT OF STATE ALONG WITH PRO-PEOPLE INITIATIVES OF PUNJAB GOVERNMENT
Faridkot, August 16:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday gave a clarion call to the Punjabis for resolving to restore the pristine glory of the state by making it a frontrunner one in the country thereby carving out a vibrant and prosperous ‘Rangla Punjab’.
Addressing the gathering after unfurling national tri-colour, during the state level function to mark Independence Day here at local Jawahar Lal Nehru stadium here today, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to all countrymen, especially Punjabis. He also paid respects and reverence to the great Sufi saint Baba Farid Ji on the sacred land of Faridkot. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Baba Farid Ji is considered the first great poet of Punjabi literature as he composed his verses in the language of the common people.
The Chief Minister said that unique and unparalleled role of Punjabis in the Indian Independence struggle hardly needs to be over emphasized. He said that it is on record that more than 80% of the great patriots who laid down their lives or were subjected to British tyranny in one form or another were Punjabis. In fact, Bhagwant Singh Mann most of the movements related to the freedom struggle were spearheaded by the valiant Punjabis for bringing centuries-old British imperialism to an end.
The Chief Minister said that great martyrs and sons of the soil Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Diwan Singh Kalepani, Baba Ram Singh, Sohan Singh Bhakna and several other unsung heroes shed every drop of their blood while pursuing the ultimate goal of Independence. He said that supreme sacrifices made by the great warriors in the various movements of the country's freedom struggle viz. Kuka, Ghadar, Babbar Akali, Agrarian, Kama Gata Maru episode, Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Liberation of Gurdwaras movement, Jaito morcha and the Parja Mandal movement would ever remain a source of inspiration to inculcate the spirit of patriotism and nationalism amongst our younger generations. But, Bhagwant Singh Mann bemoaned that even when the rest of the country was celebrating Independence, Punjab was going through the horrors of a violent partition in which lakhs of Punjabis lost their lives, were rendered homeless, and many more lost their lands and properties.
The Chief Minister said that even after Independence, Punjabis led the nation from the front whenever India faced any challenge from internal or external aggression. He said that it is a known fact that the hard working and resilient farmers of the state have played a crucial role in making the country self reliant in food production. Bhagwant Singh Mann also proudly eulogized the outstanding contribution of Punjabis in zealously safeguarding and preserving India's hard-earned independence and ushering in an era of overall development, peace and prosperity.
The Chief Minister said that it is a matter of great pride and satisfaction that whenever the sovereignty of our nation has faced any threat from external and internal aggression, the brave Punjabis have relentlessly come forward with great enthusiasm to protect the integrity and honour of the nation. He said that Independence Day being an occasion of joy and celebrations is also a moment for introspection and setting of new goals for faster development of the State. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged people to rededicate themselves to fulfill the dreams of our freedom fighters by ensuring a harmonious and egalitarian society.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the commitment of his government to strengthen peace and communal harmony in Punjab. He said that the state is fortunate to have got the opportunity to celebrate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that programs dedicated to Guru Sahib Ji’s martyrdom are being organized, and developmental plans are being prepared for towns and villages blessed by his footprints.
The Chief Minister said that the state government has taken historic and bold decisions for the development and progress of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is working with dedication to fulfill the dreams of our martyrs. He said that the state government has fulfilled many guarantees during the last three and a half years.
Listing the path breaking initiatives taken by the state government, the Chief Minister said that the state government has launched a historic scheme ‘Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna’, under which each family will receive free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh — whether at a government or private hospital. He said that this scheme will include farmers, traders, government employees, and pensioners with no income limit adding that it will benefit 3 crore people of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that there are 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics currently running, where 70,000 people get treated daily adding that 200 more clinics will be opened soon.
The Chief Minister said that to provide quality education, government schools are being upgraded to Schools of Eminence and it is a proud moment that Punjab has ranked first in the National Achievement Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing even Kerala. He said that 848 government school students have qualified for the NEET exam, 265 students cleared JEE Mains, and 45 cleared JEE Advanced exam. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this year, girls students topped in 8th, 10th, and 12th results and the state government is providing transport facility to ferry students especially girls in government schools.
The Chief Minister said that Principals and teachers are being sent to prestigious institutes in Singapore, Finland, and Ahmedabad for training. He said that 115 government schools have been named after freedom fighters, martyrs, and prominent figures. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that keeping in mind the demand for skill-based education, the number of ITI seats in the state has been increased from 35,000 to 52,000.
Reiterating that Punjab is fighting a full-fledged war against drugs, the Chief Minister profusely thanked all Punjabis for supporting the state government in this noble cause. He said that previous governments patronized drug mafias, causing widespread addiction, adding that his government has launched a crackdown against drugs in the form of Yudh Nasheyan Virudh ‘War Against Drugs’. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the drug supply network has almost been dismantled, drug dealers are being dealt with strictly and bulldozers have razed their properties .
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79th Independence Day
Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur hoists national flag
Pays tributes at Shaheed-e-Azam Memorial, Khatkar Kalan
Says process to recruit 5000 workers and helpers for Anganwadi centers across Punjab be initiated in September
Punjab Government to launch pilot project for plantation on highways in Five Districts included Khatkar Kalan
Sports activities to get a big boost as 3073 model playgrounds to be developed
Anti Begging Drive under program Jeevanjot-more than 600 children rescued & handed over to parents, enrolled in schools
Chandigarh/Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, August 16:
Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljir Kaur on Friday hoisted tricolour here at ITI Ground during a district level function to celebrate 79th Independence Day.
The Minister also paid tributes to Shaheed-E-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh at Khatkar Kalan before presiding over district level event.
After hoisting national flag, the Cabinet Minister inspected the parade, took salute from the march past and honoured the people from all walks of life for their remarkable services in different sectors. In her address, the Minister said that Punjab government under Chief Minister’s leadership was making is landmark in endeavours to realise the dreams of great freedom fighters, patriots and martyrs. She pointed out that the peerless sacrifices made by our great martyrs and freedom fighters led to the independence being relished by present generations. She said that all of us were the residents of independent India due to the freedom struggle of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, Sardar Kartar Singh Sarabha, Shaheed Udham Singh, Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpat Rai, Diwan Singh Kalepani and other freedom fighters.
Listing the achievements of Punjab Government, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that in the month of September prices to recruit as many as 5000 workers and helpers in Aanganwari Centres across Punjab would be initiated. This recruitment would further strengthen Anganwadi centers, said the Minister adding that new buildings of 1000 Anganwadi centers are being constructed in Punjab as a budget outlay of Rs. 100 crore had already been earmarked while the work at 300 centers was accomplished. The Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has already announced to establish 3073 model playgrounds during the 2025-26 fiscal to further boost sports culture in Punjab, she added.
The Minister also announced that the recruitment process was already in place for veterinary officials with 405 more new veterinary officers would be recruited shortly. She said that Punjab Government will unveil a pilot project to plant saplings and beautify the highways in five districts initially at Sri Anandpur Sahib, Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s native village Khatkar Kalan and its adjoining areas, Sangrur, Pathankot and Amritsar.
Citing the success of ‘Jeevanjot Project’, the Minister said it was first of its kind across the country under which more than 600 children were rescued and handed over to the parents besides enrolling them in schools. The Minister said that Punjab government was also focusing on establishing and running libraries in 196 villages while the work of 135 more libraries was underway. She said that health and education sectors were the foremost priorities for the State Government which were getting unparalleled reforms thus benefitting the lakhs of people in Punjab. She said that the health insurance of Rs. 10 lakhs to each Punjabi would another major welfare initiative.
Referring to 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur, the Minister said that the Forest Department will plant 3.50 lakh saplings in each district during 2025-26 under the 'Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Haryaval Sankalp'. She said that as part of the "Yudh Nashean Virudh" campaign, a unique anti-drug curriculum has been started for students of classes IX to XII in all government schools, under which about 8 lakh students are being sensitised about the ill-effects of drugs. She said that the Punjab government was running 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics in the state to provide first-class health services to the people, in which 107 types of medicines and 47 types of lab tests are done absolutely free.
The Minister also mentioned that In view of the upcoming paddy procurement season, adequate arrangements will be ensured till September 15. Dr. Baljit Kaur said that Shaheed-E-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Heritage Complex, to be built at a cost of Rs 51.70 Crore at Khatkar Kalan, would be ready in the next 9 months thus carrying forward the legacy of the great martyrs besides a source of inspiration for the new generations. She said that the Punjab government was establishing a critical care block at the Civil Hospital in Nawanshahr at a cost of Rs 12.55 crore. This ultra-modern block with a capacity of 50 beds will be ready shortly. Similarly, an integrated laboratory is also being set up at the Civil Hospital at a cost of Rs 1.06 crore and the blood bank built at a cost of Rs 42 lakh will also become functional soon. On this occasion, MLA Dr. Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi, MLA Santosh Kataria, MLA Nachhatar Pal, Nawanshahr Halka Incharge Lalit Mohan Pathak, Vice Chairman of Water Resources Management and Development Board Kuljit Sarhal, Chairman of District Planning Committee Satnam Jalalpur, Coordinator of Banga constituency Harjot Kaur Lohtia, Chairman of Market Committee Gagan Agnihotri, IG S. Bhoopathi, Deputy Commissioner Ankurjeet Singh, SSP Dr. Mehtab Singh, besides officers of various departments, a large number of students etc. were present.