*Daughters lead Punjab’s ‘Shikhya Kranti’, secure 19 of top-20 ranks in PSEB’ Class 8 results: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Top-20 Class 8 achievers to get direct admission in Schools of Eminence without entrance test: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann meets Class 8 toppers in Chandigarh, awards ₹50,000 cash prize to top-3 achievers*

*Children from humble families set new benchmarks as Punjab Govt backs merit with opportunity: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Choose right role models, stay humble, work hard: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann motivates young achievers*

*Punjab emerges as national role model in education with transformed govt schools: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

CHANDIGARH, 12th April 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday said Punjab’s ‘Sikhya Kranti’ is delivering transformative results on the ground, as daughters from ordinary families dominated the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB)’s Class 8 merit list by securing 19 of the top 20 positions. Honouring the toppers at his residence in Chandigarh, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that the top 20 students will be granted direct admission to Schools of Eminence without any entrance test, reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment to rewarding merit and expanding access to quality education.

The Chief Minister also honoured the top three achievers with a cash prize of ₹50,000 each and urged students to remain grounded, work hard, and choose the right role models, asserting that Punjab’s transformed government schools are now emerging as a national benchmark in education. He said the confidence, discipline, and determination displayed by these students reflect the impact of sustained investment in education, adding that the Punjab Government is committed to giving wings to every child’s aspirations through modern schools, quality learning, and an enabling environment.

Sharing a few snippets from the interaction, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, in Chandigarh, meritorious students who topped the results of the Punjab School Education Board's Class 8th across the entire state were honored. On this special occasion, heartfelt congratulations were also extended to their parents and teachers.”

The Chief Minister noted, “In this year's results, the first position has been secured by the talented daughter of a munim working at a brick kiln, while the second and third positions have been achieved with outstanding success by the daughters of a tiles shop owner and a teacher at a government primary school, respectively. These results clearly demonstrate that children from ordinary and humble families are now setting new benchmarks in the field of education. Seeing the self-confidence, hard work, and dedication of these children filled us with immense joy and pride.”

“Our government is fully committed to giving wings to the dreams of children and helping them reach the heights of success in life. We are continuously striving to provide quality education, modern schools, and an inspiring environment,” the post concluded.

Interacting with the toppers, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted that for the first time, girls dominated the merit list by securing 19 out of the top 20 positions, calling it a powerful testament to their excellence and determination. “These students will be granted admission to Class 9 in Schools of Eminence without any entrance examination. For the first time, girls have secured 19 out of the top 20 positions, with only one boy at the 20th rank. By achieving all the first 19 positions, girls have once again proven that they are second to none in any field,” he said, underscoring the remarkable achievement.

Emphasising the merit and capability of the students, the Chief Minister noted that a total of 2.62 lakh students appeared for the Class 8 examinations conducted by the Punjab School Education Board this year. “These top 20 students have already demonstrated their merit. Students securing top positions have proven their capability and will therefore be given admission under a special quota in Schools of Eminence based on merit, without any entrance test,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added.

While congratulating students, teachers, and parents, he said, “This is a moment of immense pride and satisfaction for everyone. Along with the hard work of the students, the contribution of parents and teachers who guided them is equally commendable. It is a historic day as top-performing students from across the state have gathered together.”

Calling it a privilege to honour young achievers, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Honouring such young achievers is a privilege for the state government and an important step toward building confidence among students, as they are the leaders of tomorrow. You must carefully choose your role models in your chosen fields to achieve success in life.”

Motivating the students further, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann urged them to remain humble and continue believing in hard work as the key to success. “The Punjab government is working tirelessly to provide quality education at the school level and has initiated an education revolution in Punjab, helping bridge socio-economic gaps and transform students’ lives,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said.

Reaffirming that education remains the top priority of the Punjab Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that major improvements are being made in infrastructure across government schools. “Punjab has emerged as a role model across the country, especially in the sector of education. Punjabis have always been leaders and have remained at the forefront in every sphere,” he said.

The Chief Minister also honoured the top three students at his residence with a cash prize of ₹50,000 each. Tamanna from Saraswati Senior Secondary School, Jaito (Faridkot) secured the first position with a perfect score of 600 out of 600, Japneet Kaur from Government Middle School, Arkawas (Sangrur) secured the second position with 598 marks, and Jashandeep Kaur from Sant Mohan Das Memorial Senior Secondary School, Kot Sukhia (Faridkot) secured the third position with 598 marks. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted with pride that all three students are also athletes competing at state and national levels.

During their interaction with CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, the students shared their aspirations and expressed happiness at being personally honoured. They said they come from humble backgrounds and are determined to achieve their dreams through hard work, dedication, and the support of the government.

On the occasion, Punjab School Education Board Chairman (PSEB) Dr. Amarpal Singh, Secretary School Education Sonali Giri, and other officials were also present.

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*Big boost for Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann gifts modern Sub-Divisional Complex with registry to record room facilities under one roof*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurates Sub-Divisional Complex after paying obeisance at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib*

*3-storey building houses Easy Registry, SDM-Tehsildar courts, Fard centre, treasury office and record room: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*High-speed internet facility available in all offices within complex: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*New building will benefit residents of Talwandi Sabo by providing all services under one roof: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*40-year-old previous building was in dilapidated condition, posing constant risk to life & property: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

TALWANDI SABO; 12th April 2026:Delivering a major governance upgrade at the sacred town of Talwandi Sabo, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday inaugurated a state-of-the-art Sub-Divisional Complex, replacing a 40-year-old unsafe structure with a modern, citizen-centric facility built at a cost of nearly ₹6 crore. After paying obeisance at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann dedicated the three-storey complex to the public, asserting that the new building brings all essential government services, from registry to record room, under one roof with high-speed digital connectivity.

The complex, equipped with 28 rooms, houses Easy Registry, SDM and Tehsildar courts, Fard centre, treasury office, record room, and other key facilities, along with an elevator and modern infrastructure designed to ensure efficiency and public convenience. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised that the previous building had become dangerously dilapidated, posing constant risk to life and property, and said the new complex would significantly enhance transparency, speed, and ease of access for residents of Talwandi Sabo and nearby villages.

Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Today, at the sacred land of Talwandi Sabo, the new Sub-Divisional Complex was inaugurated and dedicated to the public. In place of the 40-year-old dilapidated building, this modern complex has been constructed at a cost of approximately ₹6 crore.”

He noted, “This three-story building houses 28 rooms, where all essential facilities—including the SDM Court, Tehsildar Court, Fard Center, Record Room, Treasury Office, and Canteen—are available under one roof. Every office has been connected with high-speed internet, and an elevator has also been arranged for the convenience of the people.”

“This complex will prove to be a boon for the people of Talwandi Sabo and surrounding villages, enabling government services to be accessed now with speed, transparency, and without any inconvenience. On this path of development, we are fully committed to serving the public,” the post concluded.

After dedicating the newly constructed Sub-Divisional Complex to the people at the historic land sanctified by the footsteps of Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the project reflects the Punjab Government’s commitment to strengthening grassroots governance by delivering modern, citizen-centric infrastructure. “The previous Sub-Divisional Complex building was around 40 years old and in a very dilapidated condition,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. “An amount of ₹6 crore has been spent on constructing the new complex, which has a total covered area of 3,000 square feet.”

He added, “The three-storey building consists of 28 rooms and includes facilities such as an office for easy registration, SDM court, Tehsildar court, Fard centre, record room, treasury office, and a canteen.”

Highlighting the modern infrastructure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “All the offices have been connected with high-speed internet and the complex is also equipped with a lift facility.” He added that such modern Tehsil complexes are being constructed across Punjab to facilitate people, noting that earlier governments had never paid due attention to such public-centric initiatives.

Reflecting on past governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Previously, the reins of the state were in the wrong hands, due to which Punjab suffered adversely.” He added, “Ever since assuming office, our government has accorded top priority to works of immense public importance.” Expressing satisfaction, he said that these buildings are being constructed keeping in view the future needs of the people.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed hope that the new Sub-Divisional Complex will greatly benefit the residents of Talwandi Sabo and nearby villages by ensuring faster, transparent, and hassle-free delivery of services under one roof.

Earlier, after paying obeisance at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann prayed for peace, progress, and prosperity in Punjab. He also expressed hope that the ethos of communal harmony, peace, and brotherhood would grow stronger with each passing day, enabling Punjab to lead the country in every sphere. “The holy city of Talwandi Sabo is blessed with the footsteps of Dashmesh Pitaah Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji, and I am fortunate to bow here,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Extending greetings on the sacred occasion of Baisakhi, he said, “This festival symbolizes the spirit of Punjabi and Punjabiat, along with unity in diversity.” He recalled that on April 13, 1699, Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji created the Khalsa at Sri Anandpur Sahib, marking a defining moment in history.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The ‘Panj Pyaras’ belonging to different castes were baptized, laying the foundation of an egalitarian society and spreading the message of love, compassion, universal brotherhood, and communal harmony.” He added that Baisakhi also marks the beginning of the harvest season and is a festival of farmers, labourers, and hardworking people, urging citizens to celebrate it with traditional fervour to strengthen the social and secular fabric of the nation.

“The significance of this day goes beyond Sikhs or Punjabis; it holds immense importance for the entire nation,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. “By creating the Khalsa Panth, Guru Gobind Singh ji infused new life into a demoralized society and empowered people to stand against oppression and injustice, even at the cost of their lives.” He added that the day should not remain a ritual but serve as an opportunity to reaffirm commitment towards building a just and equitable society.

Calling for collective resolve, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “On this occasion of Baisakhi, we must commit ourselves to building a society based on social equality, mutual brotherhood, and freedom from exploitation.”

On the legislative front, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that the Punjab Government will introduce the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on April 13. “There have been several incidents in the past involving ‘Beadbi’ of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji and other revered Holy Scriptures, which have deeply hurt public sentiments and disturbed social harmony,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that while Sections 298, 299, and 300 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 address such matters, they do not prescribe stringent enough punishment to deter such acts. “After careful consideration, the Punjab Government has decided that stronger legal measures are necessary to safeguard the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji and promote mutual respect and communal harmony,” he said.

He added, “The Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026 proposes enhanced penalties, including life imprisonment, for those found guilty of sacrilege.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed confidence that the legislation will act as a strong deterrent and help maintain peace and communal goodwill across Punjab.

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*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s efforts pay off as Centre orders fencing near international border, lakhs of farmers to benefit*

*Fencing at 300 mts from international border will relieve farmers from BSF checks: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Lakhs of acres will come within fenced area, farmers will be able to grow crops of their choice: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Currently, farmers allowed to cultivate across fence only between 9 am & 4 pm under BSF supervision: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Centre has issued directions to DCs of border districts to shift fencing closer to international border: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*I met Union Home Minister & demanded shifting fencing from 3–4 km inside to near international border: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

TALWANDI SABO, 12th April 2026:Following sustained efforts by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Centre has moved to shift border fencing closer to the international boundary, a decision set to bring major relief to farmers long forced to cultivate under tight BSF restrictions.

With surveys now ordered across border districts, the move will bring lakhs of acres back within the fenced area, allowing farmers greater access, crop choice, and freedom from limited farming hours and repeated security checks.

Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “With the Union Home Minister, we have raised this issue many times that for farmers living along the border, the fencing along the international border with Pakistan is placed three to four kilometres inside on the Indian side. As a result, their fields are left beyond the fence.”

Explaining the challenges faced by farmers, he said, “Farmers are allowed to go beyond the fence for cultivation only at fixed hours decided by the BSF. They cannot go before 9 am, they are frisked, and they are accompanied by security forces. This is to ensure that no smuggled goods or weapons are brought back. After 4 pm, they cannot stay in the fields, and they are again searched while returning. A significant amount of time of the security forces is also spent in checking our own citizens.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann shared, “We strongly raised this issue, and the Union Home Minister had assured that it would be resolved soon. Farmers have long been forced to cross the fence with identity cards and under BSF escort to reach their own fields, facing daily hardship and uncertainty along the 532 km India Pakistan border where fencing lies deep inside Punjab’s territory.”

“Now letters have been issued to Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of border districts including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Fazilka, and Ferozepur to conduct surveys and assess how close the fencing can be moved to the international border as per rules. The SDMs have been asked to do surveys so that 300 metres of area can be well demarcated for the implementation of this decision well in time,” he added.

Pointing to the benefits, he emphasised, “Lakhs of acres of land will come within the fenced area, allowing farmers to cultivate freely.”

Emphasising security and relief, he said, “This will also make it easier for the BSF, as being closer to the border will improve visibility and help prevent anti-social activities. I want to announce on this sacred occasion that lakhs of farmers will benefit from this decision.”