*CM and Arvind Kejriwal Launch 24 Sector-Wise Committees to Usher in Industrial Revolution in Punjab*
*Era before 2022 was one of extortion, forcing industries to flee Punjab,” says Kejriwal*
*Says 99% of committee decisions will be implemented to make Punjab the best industrial destination*
*Punjab will continue to be a role model for the country: CM*
* Punjab is fast emerging as a frontrunner in industrial development*
Chandigarh, August 8 :Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal today launched 24 sector-wise Industrial Advisory Committees, envisioning a transformative step to establish Punjab as a hub of industry and commerce.
Addressing the gathering during the launch of this first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, National Convener of AAP termed it a historic day for Punjab. He said that the era prior to 2022 was dominated by extortion, where industrialists were coerced by political leaders to give up stakes in their businesses. As a result, Arvind Kejriwal said that industries fled the state, and Punjab was pushed into a crisis, particularly with the drug menace.
Highlighting the progress since 2022, National Convener of AAP said that the government under CM Bhagwant Mann has taken revolutionary steps to revive and grow the industrial sector. He lauded the Fast Track Punjab Portal as India’s most modern single-window clearance system, offering over 150 business services and eliminating the need for offline applications. Under the Punjab Right to Business Act, Arvind Kejriwal said that investment proposals up to ₹125 crore now receive in-principle approval within just three days.
The National Convener of AAP further shared that the state government has introduced several critical reforms, including color-coding of stamp papers, a 45-day timeline for granting approvals, and a Deemed Approval system if timelines are not met. He emphasized that the government has proactively involved industrialists to shape policies through initiatives like Sarkar-Sannatkar Milnis (Government-Industry Meetings). Arvind Kejriwal announced that moving forward, the Punjab Government will act upon the decisions taken by these committees.
The National Convener of AAP said that This is a reverse trend – now, the government won’t dictate terms, but will implement the decisions taken by industrialists through these sectoral committees. He stated that these committees will also study best practices from other states and replicate them in Punjab to boost industrial growth. Arvind Kejriwal said that 99% of the decisions made by these committees will be implemented.
In his address, the Chief Minister said that Punjab is already taking the lead nationally in various sectors and is quickly emerging as a role model. Recalling the government-industry interaction in September 2023, he said the idea of these 24 sector-specific committees was born out of those consultations. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these committees will be responsible for drafting detailed strategies tailored to each industrial domain.
The Chief Minister noted that many industrialists present at the event are also committee members and expressed confidence that these groups will draft the roadmap for Punjab’s industrial future. He asserted that while preparing the New Industrial Policy, these committees will ensure equal partnership from industry stakeholders. Bhagwant Singh Mann urged all industrialists to actively contribute ideas and share their valuable suggestions in formulating industry-friendly policies.
The Chief Minister called on them to ensure that their recommendations reflect Punjab’s industrial strengths, realistic challenges, and financial context. He elaborated that each committee would consist of a Chairperson, a Member Secretary, and officials from the Punjab Bureau of Industrial Investment and District Industries Centres. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government has ensured representation from large units, MSMEs, sub-sectors, and all regions to ensure inclusive decision-making.
The Chief Minister said that There are immense opportunities for growth in Punjab and we are standing at a decisive turning point. He said that With the support of these committees, the state can create a forward-looking, globally competitive industrial ecosystem. Bhagwant Singh Mann invited industrialists to move forward as equal partners in making Punjab the most preferred industrial and export hub of India.
Expressing optimism, the Chief Minister said that the state government will soon realize the dream of making Punjab vibrant and prosperous once again. Welcoming the captains of industry, he highlighted that Punjab is already leading in key sectors like food processing, textiles, auto components, hand tools, bicycle manufacturing, IT, and tourism. Bhagwant Singh Mann proudly shared that since March 2022, Punjab has received investment proposals worth ₹1.14 lakh crore, leading to the creation of over 4.5 lakh job opportunities.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Punjab has become a preferred destination for global investors, with countries such as Japan, the USA, Germany, the UK, Dubai, South Korea, Singapore, and Spain showing keen interest in the state. He added that such progress has been possible due to industry-friendly policies, corruption-free governance, and a conducive investment environment. Bhagwant Singh Mann ighlighted other progressive steps like real-time investor support via WhatsApp, Chatbot AI, and call centers, and simplification of processes like Fire NOC extensions and Leasehold-to-Freehold conversions.
The Chief Minister asserted that the government believes in walking shoulder-to-shoulder with industry and hence has brought investors and key stakeholders into the policy-making fold. Reflecting on the dark past, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that under previous regimes, entrepreneurs were pressured and exploited. “Those leaders looted the people and their hands were stained with the blood of Punjab,” he said.
But today, the Chief Minister said that state has a government of the common people, providing equal opportunities for all. He reiterated that the current administration is not harassing industrialists but is actively promoting and facilitating industry. “These committees will now act as a catalyst in our efforts,” he said, asserting that Punjab is fast emerging as a frontrunner in industrial development.
The Chief Minister also addressed social issues, stating that corruption and drugs were the biggest stains on Punjab’s identity. However, he said that the state government is vigorously working to eliminate both. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that the anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh’ has already started showing positive results, and Punjab is on its way to becoming drug-free. He concluded by stating that Punjab will continue to lead in every sector and that Punjabis will shine globally.
Earlier, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora welcomed the dignitaries, and Secretary Industries KK Yadav delivered the vote of thanks.
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CM and Arvind Kejriwal Showcase Punjab as a Land of Opportunities Before Industrial Giants
“Invest Your Heart and Soul to Build a Rangla Punjab,” Kejriwal Urges Industrialists
Complete Transformation of Rural and Urban Areas on the Cards
“We Will Facilitate Industry in Every Possible Manner,” Says CM
Industry’s Feedback Key to Accelerating Economic Growth, asserts Bhagwant Mann
Chandigarh, August 8 :Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Friday showcased Punjab as a land full of opportunities during a high-powered CEO Conclave Friday evening, attended by leading industrialists from across the country.
Addressing the gathering, Arvind Kejriwal said that the feedback received from captains of industry would play a crucial role in shaping policies aimed at further accelerating Punjab’s economic development. He praised the entrepreneurial vision and dedication of the industrialists, which he said is pivotal for the state’s progress.
Reflecting on the situation three years ago, National Convener of AAP recalled that the state was going through a dark phase, particularly due to the widespread drug problem among youth.
Arvind Kejriwal highlighted that Punjab’s contribution to the armed forces had dropped drastically due to drug addiction, and that industrial growth had stagnated under previous regimes that exploited the state for decades. National convener of AAP said that the present government took up the challenge head-on through its Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh campaign to make Punjab drug-free. “Earlier, people were afraid to speak against drug smugglers, but now the citizens are actively participating in this fight. Over 3,500 FIRs have been registered based on public complaints alone,” he said, adding that this crackdown has led to a significant drop in petty crimes.
National Convener of AAP revealed that the drug menace was deliberately spread during 2008–2009 through a conspiracy backed by political leaders, but the current government has acted through meticulous planning, putting even high-profile offenders behind bars. He emphasized that simultaneous focus has been placed on strengthening healthcare and education—sectors that were neglected for the last 75 years.
Arvind Kejriwal announced that all 166 towns and cities in Punjab will be completely transformed within the next six months through major infrastructure development.
The National Convener of AAP shared that main roads in seven cities will be revamped on European lines by global architects to enhance their aesthetic appeal. In rural areas, he said that roads will be constructed, ponds cleaned, and new sports stadiums built. Arvind Kejriwal also spoke about the state’s new revenue reforms, including the launch of easy registration and Jamabandi portal to offer transparent and corruption-free services to the public.
National Convener of AAP reiterated that several schemes have already been introduced to further boost Punjab’s economic growth. Calling upon industrialists to collaborate in rebuilding the state, Arvind Kejriwal said: “Don’t just invest your money—invest your heart and soul to build a Rangla Punjab.” He assured full cooperation and support from the state government for every industrial initiative aimed at uplifting Punjab.
Addressing the conclave, Chief Minister commended the industrialists present for their hard work, resilience, and dedication. He emphasized the importance of their feedback in steering Punjab onto a high-growth economic path. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the Punjab government is fully committed to resolving every challenge faced by the industrial sector through dialogue and constructive feedback.
The Chief Minister noted that past governments had driven industries away with their regressive policies, creating unnecessary hurdles instead of facilitating growth. He credited Arvind Kejriwal with bringing crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, power, water, and infrastructure into the national spotlight. “These five sectors are our top priorities, and we are leaving no stone unturned in strengthening them,” he said.
The Chief Minister also contrasted AAP’s development-focused politics with the divisive agenda of previous regimes. Bhagwant Singh Mann accused former governments of extorting money from industrialists and threatening their businesses. “Today, Punjab has a people-elected government that works sincerely for the growth and prosperity of industry,” he asserted.
Welcoming the captains of industry, the Chief Minister highlighted Punjab’s leadership in sectors such as food processing, textiles, auto components, hand tools, bicycle manufacturing, IT, and tourism. He proudly announced that since March 2022, the state has received investment proposals worth ₹1.14 lakh crore, resulting in the creation of over 4.5 lakh job opportunities. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that major companies like Tata Steel and Sanatan Textiles are now lining up to invest in the state.
Senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia to build the Punjab of our dreams. “This synergy will be truly beneficial for our state and its people. Education, healthcare, and ease of doing business are key pillars of our development strategy,” he said.
Earlier, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and industrial leaders attending the event.
On the occasion Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal, Secretary Industries KK Yadav and others were also present.
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ECI enhances remuneration for Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, Counting personnel, Micro Observers and other officials: Sibin C
- Enhances honorarium for Dy. DEOs, CAPF personnel, Sector Officers
Chandigarh, August 8:Punjab Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C said that conduct of elections involves diverse activities carried out by an election machinery consisting of officials and staff requisitioned from various departments of the Central Government, State Governments, PSUs, Local Authorities etc. During the election period, the entire machinery, deployed on the ground, performs arduous and sensitive duties, which extend for long hours and even continue for many months, so as to ensure a conducive environment wherein electors are able to exercise their franchise and elect a government of their choice.
For ensuring that personnel on election duty are compensated suitably, the Election Commission has decided to revise the rates of remuneration/honorarium to be paid to personnel on election duty. The last such major revision of remuneration/honorarium was done between 2014 and 2016.
He said that ECI has enhanced remuneration for Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, Counting personnel, Micro Observers and other officials. ECI also enhanced honorarium for Dy. DEOs, CAPF personnel and Sector Officers, CEO added.
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Historic Step by Punjab Government — First-ever 2 Modern Hostels for Backward Classes, First Instalment of ₹1.12 Crore Released: Dr. Baljit Kaur
New Hostels for 200 Students at Punjabi University, Patiala — Funds Released, Construction to Begin Soon
Chandigarh, August 8:Punjab Minister for Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Dr. Baljit Kaur, today announced that, for the first time in Punjab, two modern hostels will be constructed for students belonging to Backward Classes. The first instalment of ₹1.12 crore has been approved for these hostels, which will soon be transferred to the accounts of Punjabi University, Patiala, enabling construction to commence immediately. These hostels — one for boys and one for girls — will have a capacity of 100 students each and will be built at a total cost of ₹6.99 crore.
Sharing further details, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that each hostel will cost ₹3.49 crore. Both hostels will be equipped with modern facilities, comfortable rooms, a conducive study environment, and other essential amenities to help students focus entirely on their education.
She added that this initiative is part of the Punjab Government’s continuous efforts towards the construction of hostels for students from Backward Classes. This step will remove obstacles faced by students coming from remote areas by providing them with proper residential facilities to pursue higher education.
Reiterating her government’s commitment, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government is dedicated to student-centric development, self-reliance, and capacity building. She pointed out that due to the shortage of hostels, many students from Backward Classes were earlier deprived of educational opportunities, which is why the government is prioritizing new hostel projects.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further informed that the Punjab Government has invited proposals for constructing new hostels in other higher educational institutions across the state, so that students from all regions can access quality residential facilities.
She emphasized that this project is not merely about infrastructure development but is also a significant step towards empowering the youth from Backward Classes socially and making them active contributors to the state’s progress. She expressed hope that such initiatives will pave the way for more student-friendly schemes in the future.
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Heartfelt obeisance paid to Martyr ALD Daljeet Singh at his Bhog and Antim Ardas Ceremony
Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat Announces Ex-gratia Grant of ₹1 Crore for Martyr’s Family
Announces Government Job for Martyr’s brother
Renaming of Village School in Martyr’s Name
A Memorial Gate to be Constructed in Village in Memory of Martyr Daljeet Singh
Chandigarh/Gurdaspur,August 8-The Bhog and Antim Ardas of the Akhand Path held in memory of Indian Army soldier Shaheed ALD Daljeet Singh, who sacrificed his life for the nation during a recent accident in Ladakh, was solemnly observed today at Gurdwara Sri Tahli Sahib, Galhri. Defence Services Welfare, Freedom Fighters and Horticulture minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat attended the ceremony to pay homage. He was accompanied by Punjab Health Systems Corporation Chairman Mr. Raman Behl, senior Aam Aadmi Party leader from Dinanagar Mr. Shamsher Singh, District President Joban Randhawa and a large number of local residents. After the Bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib, the Raagi Singhs performed soulful kirtan at Gurdwara Sri Tahli Sahib, Galhri.
On behalf of the Punjab Government, Cabinet Minister Mr. Mohinder Bhagat offered floral tributes to Shaheed ALD Daljeet Singh, stating that the entire nation is proud of its brave son. He said Daljeet Singh rendered exemplary service in the challenging terrain of Ladakh and attained martyrdom while defending the country. Mr. Bhagat conveyed that he had come on the directions of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to share the grief of the bereaved family and assured them that the Punjab Government stands firmly with them in this difficult time.
The Cabinet Minister announced that the family would be given an ex-gratia grant of ₹1 crore, of which a cheque of ₹6 lakh was handed over today, with the remaining ₹94 lakh to be released soon after completion of formalities. He further announced that Shaheed Daljeet Singh’s brother would be given a government job, the village government school would be renamed in the martyr’s honour, and a memorial gate would be constructed at the village entrance. He affirmed the Punjab Government’s commitment to the welfare of martyr families, calling them invaluable assets of the nation and the community. On the occasion, Mr. Bhagat also honoured Shaheed Daljeet Singh’s father, S. Gulzar Singh. Chairman Punjab Health Systems Corporation Mr. Raman Behl, senior leader Mr. Shamsher Singh, and various religious and political figures also paid heartfelt tributes to the martyr.
The event was attended by S. Gulzar Singh (father of the martyr), SDM Dinanagar Mr. Jaspinder Singh Bhullar, District Defence Services Welfare Officer Commandant Baljinder Virk (Retd), constituency in-charge Baljit Singh Khalsa, Kunwar Ricky, Sarpanch Ranjit Singh Jeevan Chak, Sarpanch Joga Singh Muglani Chak, Sarpanch Palwinder Singh Maan Colony, Block President Jasbir Singh, Sansar Singh Jhabkara, Palwinder Singh Jogar, Sarpanch Amarjit Singh Tanda Basti, Education Coordinator Sukhdev Raj, Arjan Singh Block President, Anoop Thakur, Mannu Galhri, Rajesh Kumar Raipur, Jathedar Narinder Singh Bara, Sukhwinder Singh Chauhan, along with members of other martyr families and a large number of villagers.
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Punjab Roadways and PRTC workers calls off strike after Laljit Bhullar’s assurance
Public Transport buses will run smoothly across the state; Transport Minister Asserts
Chandigarh, August 8:The strike announced by Punjab Roadways, Punbus and PRTC Contract Workers Union Punjab was called off after the assurance of Transport Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar.
Informing this Transport Minister S. Bhullar said that government bus services will run smoothly on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan for the convenience of the people of the state. The Cabinet Minister said that the Punjab government led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann will take all necessary steps for the welfare of the people of the state. He said that providing transport facilities to the citizens is the bounding duty of our government.
The Cabinet Minister assured the members of the contract employees' union of early resolution of their legitimate demands and said that the state government would take care of the interests of the employees as well as the interests of the people of the state.
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Mohinder Bhagat visits family of Martyr Lt Col Bhanu Pratap Mankotia
Hands over ₹6 lakh; government job for one family member announced
Chandigarh/ Pathankot, August 8 –Punjab Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat today visited the Abrol Nagar residence of Martyr Lieutenant Colonel Bhanu Pratap Mankotia, who laid down his life in the service of the nation, to offer condolences and assure full government support to the bereaved family.
On behalf of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Minister paid floral obeisance to the martyr and interacted with family members. “Martyrs are the nation’s true wealth. Sacrificing one’s life for the country is the highest act of valour, and the nation will always remain indebted to their service,” he said.
Bhagat handed over ₹6 lakh to the family as part of the ₹1 crore financial assistance announced by the Punjab Government and said the remaining amount would be released soon. He also announced a government job for one family member.
The Minister was accompanied by AAP Punjab State Vice-President Swaran Salaria, District President Amandeep Sandhu, Pathankot Constituency Incharge Vibhuti Sharma, Sameer Sardha, Colonel Sagar Singh Salaria, Kunwar Ravinder Vicky, Secretary of Shaheed Suraksha Parishad Pathankot, and other party leaders.
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