*BJP’s election game in Punjab through ED continues, raids at homes of two AAP leaders in three days: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP must tell what was found in previous raids; Just as nothing was found earlier, nothing will be found now either: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab is watching how far BJP has stooped for power politics: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP should stop dreaming of winning Punjab elections through employing ED, CBI & Election Commission; Punjabis may lose their heads, but they will never bow in fear: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP is unable to find 117 candidates in Punjab, so it wants to break AAP leaders by using fear through ED: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Only to win elections, Modi Govt troubles opposition-led states by stopping funds & misusing Governors: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
CHANDIGARH; 17th April 2026:With Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at the homes of two AAP leaders in three days, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann called out the BJP for using central agencies to begin its Punjab election campaign, saying a party unable to find 117 candidates is trying to spread fear instead of winning public support.
The Chief Minister emphasised that opposition governments are being harassed through blocked funds, Governors, ED, CBI and the Election Commission, while leaders joining the BJP emerged clean from its ‘washing machine’. He said AAP would not be intimidated, asserting that Punjabis may lose their heads but would never bow in fear, and told the BJP to prepare for 2027 by working among the people instead of relying on raids and pressure tactics.
Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, "Our country is called the biggest democracy in the world, the world’s largest democracy. Here, people elect the government of their choice. It is the duty of the central government to give every state what is rightfully theirs, above politics and above party lines. But for some time now, we have been seeing that democracy is slowly being strangled. All non BJP governments are being troubled, either directly by stopping funds from the Centre or through Governors in one way or another."
Targeting the BJP, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "The AAP has been specially targeted because it is a party that is growing very rapidly. It has become a national party in barely ten years. BJP thinks they can handle Congress, and they have also been hand in glove with Congress at times, but they do not want a third force to emerge.”
He pointed out, “In this process, they filed fake ED cases against our leaders in Delhi like in the so-called liquor scam case. Our senior leaders were sent to jail. Arvind Kejriwal, a sitting Chief Minister was jailed, along with Deputy CM Manish Sisodia. Our Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Singh was jailed. Whoever worked behind the scenes, any ‘karyakartas' or policymakers, all were jailed, threatened, intimidated, and told to join BJP or face trouble. This politics of fear and intimidation is continuing."
Flagging a clear pattern across the country, he shared, "Across the country, in Bengal, from the DGP onwards, officers have been changed because elections are coming. They do not win elections through people. They win elections through ED, CBI, the Election Commission, and other departments used for intimidation. A few days ago, ED raided the premises of AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal, who runs Lovely Professional University, where around 4,000 students study. Students from more than 35 countries come there to study. But because he is an Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP, suddenly he became tainted."
Speaking on the current raid, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann revealed, "Today, an ED raid is underway at the house of Minister Sanjeev Arora. He had badly defeated BJP in Ludhiana by-election. So today he too has become tainted according to the BJP. It means BJP has started preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections. Send ED, send Income Tax, send notices, create fear. Because they cannot even find 117 people to contest elections. BJP cannot find 117 candidates, so they are saying either contest under fear or come out clean from our ‘washing machine.’"
"This is a very dangerous trend. Democracy is being murdered. We strongly condemn this. Only non BJP governments are being harassed. Only opposition leaders face the stick of ED, and nothing comes out of it. The case against Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia was also discharged. That means it was such a false case that even a trial could not start. But they say first put them inside jail, let elections happen, then we will see later,” he added.
Continuing his attack, the Chief Minister further said, "If someone bows before them and accepts their terms, then he comes out of the ‘washing machine: completely spotless. All his stains disappear. Is this a democracy? No, this is dictatorship."
Speaking on BJP's Bihar leadership, he stated, "They have now made Samrat Choudhary the Chief Minister of Bihar. Cases of seven murders are registered against him. He has been in jail. He gave the wrong age and changed his date of birth three times. And these are the people who keep talking about ‘jungle raj’. So what rule has now come to Bihar? Now this BJP-led jungle is good, like that advertisement says stains are good. So the stains given by BJP are considered good."
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann pointed to BJP's misusing of central agencies, weakening democratic institutions and targeting opposition leaders out of political insecurity. He said the Aam Aadmi Party would not be intimidated by raids or threats and asserted that no amount of pressure could shake the resolve of AAP. “Let them trouble us as much as they want. Let them send ED, CBI or whichever agencies they have. But we are not going to be afraid. We are not afraid.”
Targeting BJP’s organisational weakness in Punjab, the Punjab CM said the party had failed to build any genuine base in the state and was instead trying to expand through coercion and defections. “In Punjab, they get one or two Assembly seats. To increase that number, they are now taking support of ED. BJP has no cadre in Punjab, no leaders. So wherever they find someone, they take them from Congress or Akali Dal. BJP has created a Congress wing in Punjab. Because cases may exist against them, they suppress those cases by scaring them and showing them files. Is this democracy?”
Speaking on governance priorities, he asserted PM Modi should have focused on unemployment, schools, hospitals and rising household costs instead of vendetta politics. He said, “He should have focused on how crores of young people can get jobs, how good schools can be built, how hospitals can provide better treatment, and how people can be relieved from the burden of LPG and petroleum prices. Instead, their focus is on reducing someone’s security, increasing someone else’s security, sending ED here, sending CBI there. Is this how governments are run? The government is being run from elsewhere. Orders come from Washington and the White House. They wanted to become Vishwaguru, but we have become Vishwachela.”
Continuing his criticism, the Chief Minister said AAP leaders had repeatedly been jailed despite no proven wrongdoing and institutions were being used for electoral advantage. “Around 90% of our party leaders were shown jail, even though they had done nothing. This weapon of ED, this weapon of CBI, this weapon of the Election Commission, look at what is happening in Bengal. There is chaos and one political party is being threatened. That means whose way will prevail? BJP’s way.”
On BJP’s wider ambitions, he revealed the party wanted power at any cost and was willing to reshape institutions and rules to capture states where it lacked public support. “They want to capture Bengal, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Even if for that they have to do delimitation or offer temptations, whatever temptation is needed, they just want to win.”
Warning that democracy itself was under strain, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised citizens across party lines would have to defend constitutional values and remember the sacrifices that built the nation. “Martyrs gave their blood and handed this country to us. Shaheed e Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Chandrashekhar Azad, Kartar Singh Sarabha, Madan Lal Dhingra, Lala Lajpat Rai, so many sacrifices were made. So many sacrifices were made in youth, at the age of 23, 22, 19,” he said.
“Would their souls find peace today after seeing this? They gave us this country after sacrificing everything, only so that today it is run by just two people. Earlier we had heard ‘hum do hamare do’. That was for family welfare, but now it has become the model of governance. Today also it is ‘hum do hamare do’. There are Amit Shah and PM Narendra Modi, and ahead of them their two, Ambani and Adani. This government is being run on that formula while 140 crore people have been left to fate,” he asserted.
The Punjab CM added that the Centre was misusing constitutional offices to obstruct elected state governments and damage the federal structure of the country. “Governors have been reduced to instruments of politics. They sit on Bills for years. States are being forced to approach the Supreme Court for their rights. Even after the Supreme Court made it clear that Governors and the President cannot indefinitely hold Bills, matters were pushed into cold storage. Judges are transferred, their files are taken out. The question is whether they intend to spare anyone. We had heard that in North Korea and Russia people simply declare themselves rulers for years. The same thing is happening here in another form.”
Raising concerns over elections, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised that genuine votes of opposition supporters were being targeted and manipulated. “Through SIR, real votes are being deleted. They have created panna pradhans and panna pramukhs in every lane and locality. They identify which homes support BJP, which support Aam Aadmi Party and which support Congress, then opposition votes are targeted and new votes are created. Same voters are voting in multiple states. On one hand they say one nation one election, but when two states vote there is a one-week gap. Why is there a gap if the country has enough security forces? First votes are cast at one place, then people are shifted in vehicles and trains to another place. Is this democracy? This is a new kind of democracy.”
He said the values for which freedom fighters gave their lives were being betrayed. “This is not the democracy our martyrs dreamed of, the democracy for which Lala Lajpat Rai took lathi blows and Bhagat Singh kissed the noose. They made no sacrifices, yet now they want to keep changing the Constitution. Give them 360 seats and they will do anything to the Constitution. Such Bills keep coming. It appears they spend twenty-four hours only thinking about how to weaken democracy.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said opposition parties, especially the AAP, were being targeted through investigative agencies but would not be intimidated. “Arvind Kejriwal is our General. We are not going to fear them or panic. Let them send ED, CBI or any department they wish. We will give every account. The moment someone is in the Aam Aadmi Party or another opposition party, he becomes corrupt. The moment a highly corrupt person joins BJP, he is washed clean. BJP’s ‘washing machine politics’ would eventually collapse. This washing machine will not run for long. If you keep putting stained clothes into a machine again and again, one day even its filter gets blocked.”
He shared, history had repeatedly shown that arrogance leads to downfall. “Alexander kept conquering and forgot how to return. Their day will also come. These raids are cowardly acts. Old allegations are repeatedly brought back. We strongly condemn them. We stand with truth, and truth cannot be scorched.”
He also criticised sections of the media for blindly glorifying every government move. “Everything becomes a masterstroke. Remove MGNREGA, masterstroke. Bring MGNREGA, masterstroke. Every decision is projected the same way. Look at Hungary. They had bought the judiciary, the media and every resource, yet that dictator also lost badly when the people stood together. If they want to prepare for 2027, they should go and work among the people, not with ED, CBI.”
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*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Cabinet clears citizen-led desilting policy to boost flood preparedness ahead of monsoon*
*Landowners allowed to desilt rivers, choes and drains at own cost, use excavated material free of charge*
*Nine critical sites identified as Bhagwant Mann Govt moves to prevent silt build-up & reduce flood risk*
*Decision ensures faster execution of desilting works while safeguarding public & private property*
*Cabinet clears Rule 6 amendment to rebalance reservation across Sarpanch, Zila Parishad & Panchayat Samiti posts*
CHANDIGARH; 17th April 2026:Punjab Cabinet, led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, has cleared a citizen-focused policy allowing landowners to undertake desilting of rivers, choes and drains at their own cost, with the right to use excavated material free of charge, in a move aimed at strengthening flood preparedness ahead of the monsoon while improving river flow across critical stretches.
Disclosing this, Chief Minister’s Office stated: “A major citizen centric decision has been taken by the Punjab Cabinet led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann to approve allowing landowners to undertake desilting of rivers/choes/drains including River Sutlej, River Beas and River Siswan. The decision was taken in a meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.”
*Landowners allowed to desilt rivers, choes and drains at own cost, use excavated material free of charge*
The Cabinet has also given approval to a policy for permitting concerned landowners to undertake desilting of rivers /choes / drains including River Sutlej, River Beas and River Siswan at their own cost and to utilize the excavated material free of cost for their own use.” The spokesperson further noted that the initiative will facilitate expeditious desilting of critical reaches, enhance the carrying capacity of rivers/choes and significantly reduce the risk of floods, thereby safeguarding public and private property.
The Punjab Government has identified nine critical sites where desilting is required to ensure smooth flow of water in view of the upcoming monsoon season. Non-execution of desilting at these sites could lead to accumulation of silt, reduced carrying capacity of rivers/choes and increased flood risk during the ensuing monsoon, besides continued non-utilization of excavated material.
To ensure timely desilting before the monsoon season 2026–27 and to address non-responsive sites, it has been decided to permit concerned landowners to undertake desilting at their own cost, with free utilization of excavated material for their own use. This will facilitate expeditious execution of desilting works while reducing potential flood risks and associated liabilities.
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Cabinet Gives nod to amend Rule 6 of Punjab Reservation for office of Sarpanches of Gram Panchayat / Chairman / Vice Chairman of Zila Parishad & Panchayat Samiti*
In another key decision, the Cabinet also approved an amendment to Rule 6 of the Punjab Reservation for the Offices of Sarpanches of Gram Panchayats and Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of Panchayat Samitis and Zila Parishads Rules, 1994, aimed at rationalizing representation across categories.
The move is aimed to rationalize the representation to each category for reservation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Castes Women, Women and General category. It stipulates that in case 10% or more of the total number of Zila Parishads in the State are affected, the roster for rotation of the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Caste Women, Women and General Categories shall be prepared afresh.
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*Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema flags off 25 new vehicles to boost excise & taxation enforcement amidst record revenue growth*
*New Fleet Aims to Curb Tax Evasion & Enhance Real-Time Monitoring: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Punjab Records Robust 12.52% Growth in Net GST & 9.15% in Excise Revenue for FY 2025-26:Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Over Four-Fold Increase in Penalties Imposed by SIPUs Highlights Uncompromising Enforcement: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Bhagwant Mann Govt ramps up ground-level surveillance with new fleet to curb evasion & secure revenue: Harpal Singh Cheema*
CHANDIGARH; 17th April 2026:Punjab Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday flagged off 25 new Bolero vehicles to strengthen the operational mobility and enforcement capabilities of the Excise and Taxation Department, asserting that the move will significantly enhance field presence, curb tax evasion, and boost revenue generation for the Punjab Government.
Addressing a press, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “Today marks a vital step forward for our state administration as we officially flag off 25 new Bolero vehicles to significantly enhance the operational mobility and enforcement capabilities of the Excise and Taxation Department.”
Emphasising the need for stronger on-ground operations and wider geographical reach, the Minister stated, “To ensure maximum geographical coverage and operational efficiency, the Department has procured these 25 Bolero vehicles at a total cost of approximately ₹2.21 crore. These vehicles will be deployed across various districts, enforcement wings, and our critical mobile units.”
Highlighting the crucial role played by the department in strengthening Punjab’s finances, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema noted, “The Excise and Taxation Department plays a crucial role in ensuring strict compliance with tax laws across the State. During the financial year 2025-26, the Department delivered a robust performance, recording healthy growth in tax collections over the previous financial year of 2024-25.”
Detailing the strong revenue growth, he noted, “Overall tax revenue witnessed a strong year-on-year growth. Gross GST collections increased by 11.87% to ₹27,744.05 Crore from ₹24,799.18 Crore, while Net GST collections rose by 12.52% to ₹26,601.12 Crore from ₹23,642.08 Crore. Similarly, our Excise revenue grew by 9.15%, reaching ₹11,736.57 Crore compared to ₹10,752.80 Crore in 2024-25.”
Underscoring the sharp improvement in enforcement outcomes, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “A standout achievement has been the exceptional performance of the State Intelligence and Preventive Units (SIPUs) in enforcement activities. In FY 2024-25, the total penalty imposed through road checking and inspections stood at ₹321.04 crores.”
The Minister asserted, “I am proud to say that this has risen sharply to ₹1,384.09 crores in FY 2025-26, representing more than a four-fold increase in penalty imposition and nearly a six-fold rise in recovery. This substantial improvement highlights the dedication, efficiency, and strengthened ground-level enforcement efforts of our Department.”
Explaining the strategic importance of the newly inducted fleet, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “This strategic initiative is expected to substantially strengthen the field presence of our officers. It will directly enable prompt inspections and investigations, improve our surveillance of inter-state goods movement, and greatly enhance our overall effectiveness in curbing tax evasion.”
“Consequently, this proactive measure will contribute heavily to higher revenue generation for the Government,” he added.
Outlining the department’s forward-looking vision, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema concluded, “The addition of this robust fleet will further augment the Department’s capacity for real-time monitoring, swift action, and improved tax compliance across the region. Ultimately, we are paving the way for sustained and enhanced performance in the coming years, ensuring that our tax infrastructure remains vigilant and uncompromising.”
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*Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat reviews progress of ‘Rangla Punjab’ development grants in S.A.S. Nagar*
* 174 infrastructure and development works worth Rs 8.47 crore underway
* Additional ₹5 crore for each constituency to be released soon
Chandigarh / S.A.S. Nagar, April 17:Cabinet Minister Sh. Mohinder Bhagat today reviewed the progress of development works being undertaken under the ‘Rangla Punjab’ Mission in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (S.A.S. Nagar) district. The review meeting was attended by Chairman, Punjab Youth Development Board, Sh. Parminder Singh Goldy and Chairperson, District Planning Committee, Er. Prabhjot Kaur, along with senior district officials.
The Minister informed that a total of 174 infrastructure-related works are currently under progress across the district, with an allocation of Rs 8.47 crore, aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure and improving public amenities. During the meeting, he directed all concerned officials to ensure timely completion of these works, emphasising quality and adherence to deadlines.
Deputy Commissioner Ms.Komal Mittal apprised that out of the total 174 works, 45 have already been completed. She further informed that an additional instalment of Rs 2.5 crore each has been received for the three constituencies in the district.
The ongoing development works include construction of community centres, panchayat ghars, dharamshalas, playgrounds, streets and drainage systems, boundary walls of cremation grounds, village entry gates, repair of dispensaries, construction of school classrooms, installation of solar lights, and conversion of katchha houses into pakka houses for economically weaker sections.
Sh. Mohinder Bhagat stated that upon completion of the current phase of works, an additional grant of Rs 5 crore per constituency will be released during the current financial year. He reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sh. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to the comprehensive development of both rural and urban areas, with a focus on strengthening road networks, canal irrigation, and enhancing education and healthcare services.
The Minister also reviewed the progress and social impact of the ongoing anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nasheyan Virudh’, which forms an integral part of the ‘Rangla Punjab’ Mission. SP (PBI) Ms Deepika Singh and SP (Headquarters) Mr Mohit Aggarwal informed that around 333 village/ward defence committees are actively working to spread awareness among citizens. They further stated that drug hotspots are under constant surveillance and that individuals affected by substance abuse are being provided treatment through nasha mukti kendras and other de-addiction centres.
Among others present at the meeting were Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Mohali, Sh. Sundeep Singh Garha; ADC (Rural Development) Ms Sonam Chaudhary; Deputy Economic and Statistical Advisor Ms Gurminder Kaur; and BDPOs of Kharar, Derabassi and Majri.
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*Full Support for Women’s Reservation, but Centre indulging in theatrics: Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer*
*Women’s Reservation Bill turned into election gimmick, intent of Union Govt questionable: Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer*
*Delimitation Bill will weaken states like Punjab, distort federal balance: Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer*
*Centre’s shifting stance on census exposes lack of sincerity on women’s reservation: Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer*
*Punjab’s rights shrinking due to lower representation, delimitation will worsen injustice: Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer*
*Time to grant dual citizenship to Non-Resident Punjabis who contribute immensely: Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer*
Chandigarh/NEW DELHI, April 17:Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP from Sangrur Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, speaking during the special session of Parliament on the Women’s Reservation and Delimitation Bills, extended full support to women’s reservation while questioning the intent and timing of the Union Government, calling the move a political exercise aimed at electoral gains. He also strongly opposed the Delimitation Bill, warning that it could disturb the federal balance and further weaken the representation of states like Punjab.
Addressing a late-night debate in Parliament, AAP MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer stated, “We fully support the Women’s Reservation Bill, but the intent of the Union Government raises serious questions. The manner and timing in which this has been brought suggests it is being used as an election gimmick rather than a sincere step towards empowerment.”
The AAP MP added, “If the Union Government had genuine intent, it would have passed this bill in 2023 itself. At that time, it was argued that implementation would follow the census. Today, the bill is being pushed even though the census process has not even begun, which exposes the inconsistency in their approach.”
Expressing firm opposition to the Delimitation Bill, Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer said, “The Delimitation Bill can have a devastating impact on the political balance of states. Smaller states like Punjab will suffer further erosion in representation, while more populous states will gain disproportionately, deepening existing inequalities.”
He further highlighted longstanding issues concerning Punjab, stating, “Promises made to Punjab before and after independence remain unfulfilled. Instead of granting special status, funds meant for Punjab are being withheld, and its rights over BBMB are being steadily diluted. Punjab is already facing injustice due to lower representation, and delimitation will only worsen this situation.”
Drawing international comparisons, he noted, “In countries like the United States and across Europe, all states are ensured equal rights. India must also move towards a framework where every state is treated with fairness and equity, irrespective of population size.”
Raising the concerns of the Punjabi diaspora, Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer also advocated for policy reform, stating, “Non-Resident Punjabis have contributed immensely to the country and the state. It is time the Government seriously considers granting dual citizenship to recognise their role and strengthen their connection with India.”
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*Punjab to integrate AI as core subject in schools, marks to reflect on Board certificates as state announces major curriculum overhaul*
*• Education Minister Harjot Bains lauds PSEB’s move to modernise school learning; says, “AI to transform classrooms”*
*• PSEB hosts national-level AI Conference; Chairman Dr. Amarpal announces landmark reform to build future-ready, ethical digital citizens*
CHANDIGARH; April 17:Punjab has taken a decisive step toward embedding Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the heart of its school education system, with the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) hosting a national-level AI Conference and Workshop that brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and academicians to chart a future-ready roadmap for classrooms. The initiative signals a structural shift in how education in Punjab is being reimagined, with a clear focus on aligning learning outcomes with the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven global economy.
Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains described the conference as a forward-looking intervention aimed at transforming the education ecosystem, asserting that the integration of Artificial Intelligence will play a crucial role in driving education reforms. “The integration of Artificial Intelligence will play a crucial role in driving education reforms. It will contribute to quality improvement, innovation, and the modernisation of education, ensuring that students are better prepared for the demands of a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world and global challenges,” he said.
In his welcome and theme address, PSEB Chairman Dr. Amarpal Singh, IAS (Retd.), made a landmark announcement that building on Punjab’s existing compulsory Computer Science curriculum, Artificial Intelligence will now be integrated as a core component of the syllabus. He further stated that learning outcomes in Computer Science will be formally reflected on students’ Board certificates, significantly enhancing the subject’s academic weightage. “Artificial Intelligence will now be integrated as a core component of the syllabus, and learning outcomes in Computer Science will be formally reflected on students’ Board certificates,” he said.
Underscoring the broader vision behind the move, The PSEB emphasised that Artificial Intelligence is fundamentally reshaping how we live and learn. “The question is not whether AI will influence education, but how we can shape that influence with responsibility and foresight,” he stated, adding that PSEB is committed to building an ethical foundation for AI usage to create not just skilled users of technology but responsible digital citizens.
The conference featured detailed deliberations from leading educationists and policymakers across the country. Chairman of the Haryana Board of School Education Prof. Pawan Kumar stressed the urgency of integrating AI across disciplines. “It is high time to incorporate AI into the curriculum across all disciplines. AI should not be limited to Computer Science but extended to all subjects, equipping students from all strata of society. Students are already aware of AI, and the focus should now be on channelizing their potential and making them industry-ready,” he said.
Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education, Ghulam Hasan Sheikh, highlighted the need for responsible adoption. “The responsibility lies in adopting these technologies thoughtfully to enhance learning without creating disparities. With the right approach, quality education can be delivered while ensuring ethical and safe use of AI,” he noted.
Senior Director for Asia Pacific and Japan at Intel Shweta Khurana underlined the importance of industry collaboration. “Real transformation can be achieved by bringing education and industry onto a common platform to meet evolving industry requirements,” she said, pointing to initiatives aimed at empowering teachers.
Director for Training and Skill Education at CBSE Dr. Biswajit Saha called for bridging technological gaps across states. “All state governments must bridge gaps in technology adoption while aligning with global standards. Punjab’s move to integrate AI into the core Computer Science curriculum is a significant step toward building a future-ready workforce,” he said.
In a special address followed by an interactive session, Hemant Bhalla from Google appreciated the Board’s approach. “Placing responsible AI adoption and ethical considerations at the core of implementation is a commendable vision,” he said.
An exhibition organised in collaboration with industry partners showcased AI-based startup projects and models, reflecting the growing ecosystem around educational innovation.
The conference also featured three focused panel discussions that examined the intersection of policy, technology, and workforce readiness. The session on “AI in Education – From Policy to Practice” emphasised bridging policy frameworks with classroom implementation through curriculum integration and institutional preparedness. The panel on “Robotics and STEM – Powering the Skills Economy” explored AI innovation, robotics integration, and industry-aligned education models. The discussion on “AI and Automation – Industry 4.0 and the Future Workforce” highlighted the accelerating adoption of AI across industries, the impact of automation on employment landscapes, and the urgent need for reskilling and upskilling to build future-ready talent.
The conference concluded with an open house discussion, followed by a vote of thanks by PSEB Secretary Keshav Goyal, marking a significant step toward fostering innovation, collaboration, and future-ready education systems in Punjab.
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PSFC organises a one-day International Symposium on “Advances in Ecological Sustainable Rice Cultivation and National Food Security
Chandigarh, 17 April : The Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission (PSFC) organised a one-day International Symposium on “Advances in Ecological Sustainable Rice Cultivation and National Food Security – Unlocking Potential of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) in Punjab” at Hotel Shivalik View, Chandigarh, bringing together experts, policymakers, scientists, and progressive farmers to deliberate on the future of sustainable rice cultivation.
The symposium aimed to address emerging challenges in paddy cultivation, particularly groundwater depletion, rising input costs, and climate stress, while exploring the potential of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) as a viable alternative to conventional methods.
The symposium was also attended by distinguished Special Guests, including Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana; Dr. Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice Chancellor, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana; Dr. Virender Kumar, Research Director, International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Research Centre, Varanasi; Dr. T.N. Prakash Kammardi, former Chairman, Karnataka Agricultural Price Commission (KAPC), Bengaluru; Dr. Pushpinderpal Singh, Project Director, AWaDH, IIT Ropar; and Dr. Vinay Singh, Representative, FAO of the United Nations.
The experts shared their perspectives on sustainable rice cultivation, technological innovations, and the role of DSR in addressing water and climate challenges. The speakers deliberated on DSR, highlighting both its advantages and practical challenges in adoption. Dr. Kulvinder Singh Gill highlighted an upcoming collaborative project with the Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission aimed at modifying paddy genetics to develop a long-term solution to stubble burning.
Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush appreciated the efforts of the Commission in organising the symposium and bringing together diverse stakeholders on a critical issue.
Sh. Harchand Singh Barsat unveiled a pocket data book titled “Punjab Agriculture, 2026”, developed by the Commission as part of its ongoing effort to establish a comprehensive agricultural data bank.
Prof. (Dr.) Sukhpal Singh, Chairman, PSFC, presented a detailed overview of Punjab’s agricultural scenario, particularly focusing on rice production and its implications for food security. He raised key questions regarding the sustainability of current cropping patterns, the role of DSR, and the need to balance national food security with ecological concerns, setting the stage for focused deliberations during the symposium.
The symposium featured four thematic panel discussions covering critical dimensions of DSR adoption. The first technical panel, chaired by Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), brought together leading experts including Dr. Ajmer Singh Dhatt, Director Research, PAU, Ludhiana; Dr. Kuldeep Singh, former Director, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) and Head, GeneBank, ICRISAT, Hyderabad; Dr. Gopal Krishan, Scientist, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee; Dr. Ashish, Scientist, ICAR–ATARI, Ludhiana; Dr. Dharaminder Bhatia, Professor, School of Biotechnology, PAU, Ludhiana; Mr. Naveen Kumar, Lead Agronomist, GrowIndigo, New Delhi; Dr. Jatinder Singh, Agricultural Economist, CRRID, Chandigarh; Dr. Virender Kumar; and Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor, PAU, Ludhiana. The panel deliberated on the potential of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) in Punjab, highlighting its role in addressing water stress and improving farm sustainability. The experts also emphasised the need for crop diversification, discussing viable alternatives such as groundnut and cotton to reduce dependence on paddy cultivation. Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, emphasised that paddy varieties such as PR-126 and PR-131 are well-suited for both transplanted rice and Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), making them viable options for facilitating a smoother transition towards sustainable cultivation practices. Dr. Sharon Elizabeth Benes, Soil and Crop Nutrition Scientist, California State University, Fresno, USA, addressed the conference through video conference, sharing insights on improving soil and water efficiency through Direct Seeded Rice (DSR). Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal also emphasised the need for extending Minimum Support Price (MSP) to alternative crops, noting that assured price support is essential to encourage farmers to adopt diversification beyond paddy.
The second technical session, moderated by Dr. Rajvir Singh Gill, Rice Breeding In-charge, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), witnessed participation from a diverse group of experts and stakeholders. The panellists included Dr. Jasvir Singh Gill, PAU, Ludhiana; Dr. Maninder Kaur, Dr. S.S. Bhatnagar University Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Panjab University, Chandigarh; Dr. Ajai Rana, Chairman, Federation of Seed Industry of India; Dr. Anil Sood, former Scientist, Punjab Remote Sensing Centre, Ludhiana; Dr. G.S. Brar, Director, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Punjab; Prof. Rajvir Singh Sohi, progressive farmer from Amritsar; Mr. Gurvinder Singh Bajwa, DSR Warrior Group, Gurdaspur; Dr. Surinder Paul, Director, India Meteorological Department; and Mr. Raj Kiran Johri; The session deliberated on the adoption of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), focusing on technological interventions, environmental implications, and practical challenges in implementation. The panellists highlighted the role of innovation, institutional support, and stakeholder collaboration in addressing constraints and scaling up DSR across Punjab.
Another session, moderated by Sh. Amarpal Singh Bhullar, former Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Government of Punjab, focused on the role of cooperatives in strengthening agricultural systems. The panel included Dr. Harjeet Singh, Department of Cooperation, Punjab; Dr. Sukhwinder Singh, Executive Director, IRDF, Chandigarh; Sh. Jaswinder Singh Saini, CEO, Primary Agricultural Credit Society, Hoshiarpur; Dr. Harpreet Singh, Assistant General Manager, APEDA; Ms. Komal Jaiswal, Founder, GreenAffairs, i-RISE Technology Business Incubator, IISER Chandigarh; and Dr. Vinay Singh, Representative, FAO of the United Nations. The discussion highlighted the critical role of cooperatives in promoting Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), strengthening procurement and marketing systems, and enhancing farmers’ access to institutional support. The panellists emphasised that cooperative-led models can play a key role in scaling sustainable agricultural practices and improving rural livelihoods.
The valedictory session, chaired by Prof. (Dr.) Sukhpal Singh, Chairman, Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission, was addressed by Hon’ble Sh. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha. The session featured eminent panellists including Sh. Mohinder Singh Sidhu, Chairman, PUNSEED; noted agricultural expert Sh. Devinder Sharma; Dr. Ranjit Singh Ghuman, Professor of Eminence; and Dr. T.N. Prakash Kammardi, former Chairman, Karnataka Agricultural Price Commission.
The speakers deliberated on the need to promote ecological and sustainable farming practices and emphasised the effective implementation of the Punjab State Agricultural Policy, 2023 for the welfare of farmers. They also called for a comprehensive policy framework from the Central Government on the scale of the Green Revolution to address emerging agricultural challenges.
Prof. (Dr.) Sukhpal Singh thanked all participants and stakeholders for their valuable contributions and congratulated everyone on the successful conduct of the symposium.
During the session, Hon’ble Sh. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Speaker, Punjab Vidhan Sabha, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the symposium as a meaningful effort towards bringing real change, rather than a routine deliberative exercise. He described it as a significant step towards conserving Punjab’s depleting water resources and stressed that collective efforts are required to secure the state’s future. Emphasising the need to follow the ideology of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, he called for strengthening “lab to land” linkages to ensure effective transfer of technology to farmers. He further highlighted the importance of promoting value addition, processing, and manufacturing alongside the adoption of DSR to enhance farmers’ income and ensure sustainable agricultural growth.
Dr. Ranjodh Singh Bains, Administrative Officer-cum-Secretary, PSFC, delivered the vote of thanks and outlined the Commission’s upcoming initiatives related to the promotion of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and other initiatives related to agriculture of Punjab