*100 Mini Buses Will Connect Punjab’s Villages With Cities: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Mini Bus Services To Make Travel Easier For People Living In Rural Areas & Students: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*100 29-Seater Mini Buses To Operate On Rural Routes Through 9 Depots Across Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*309 More Large Buses To Join Punjab Roadways Fleet Next Month: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Around 3,000 Private Mini Buses Also Connecting Towns, Cities & Villages: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*100 New Roadways Buses Generate Employment For 150 Youth: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Just As Canal Water Has Reached Every Field, Buses Will Reach Every Village In Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Previous Govts Had Discontinued Bus Services Connecting Villages With Cities: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
PATIALA, 26th October 2026:Flagging off 100 new mini buses in Patiala on Monday, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann reaffirmed his government’s commitment to connecting every village with cities, declaring that just as canal water has reached every field, buses would reach every village in Punjab. Taking a swipe at previous governments for discontinuing village-to-city bus services, he said the new buses would strengthen rural connectivity, ease daily travel for residents and students, and improve access to education, employment and essential services.
Announcing that another 309 large buses would join the fleet next month, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the induction of 29-seater 100 mini buses would also generate employment for around 150 youth, while 15 young people were handed offer letters for jobs in the transport department.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Strengthening Punjab’s transport infrastructure, today we added 100 new mini buses to the PRTC fleet in Patiala. These buses will specifically connect our villages with cities, making travel more convenient for rural residents. We also handed over offer letters to 15 young people for jobs in the department. To further improve public transport services, another 309 new full-size buses will be added to the fleet next month.”
During a media interaction after flagging off the buses, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Public transport is not merely a means of travelling from one place to another; it is a lifeline for rural communities. Reliable bus services enable students to pursue education, help families access employment opportunities and strengthen the economic and social fabric of villages.”
Emphasising the government’s commitment to balanced development, the Chief Minister said, “Just as we have ensured that canal water reaches every field, we will ensure that buses reach every village in Punjab. The benefits of development must reach every household, irrespective of whether people live in big cities, small towns or remote villages.”
He pointed out, “Earlier governments neglected rural transport connectivity, leaving people struggling to travel to cities for work, education and other essential needs. Our government is determined to reverse this trend and ensure that no one is deprived of opportunities because of where they live.”
The Chief Minister said, “The 100 new 29-seater mini buses will operate on rural and small-town routes through PRTC’s nine depots. These services will make daily commuting easier for rural residents travelling to cities for employment, business and other essential activities. School and college students will also benefit significantly from improved connectivity.”
He said the buses had been allocated across various depots, including Patiala, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Sangrur, Barnala, Budhlada, Kapurthala, Faridkot and Ludhiana.
Highlighting the expansion of public transport, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Another 309 large buses will be added to the fleet next month. Around 3,000 privately operated mini buses are also connecting villages, towns and cities across Punjab. We are continuously strengthening the public transport network to make travel more accessible for people.”
On employment generation, he said, “The induction of these 100 new mini buses will create employment opportunities for approximately 150 drivers and conductors. Our government is committed to combining public welfare with job creation so that investments in public infrastructure also create livelihood opportunities.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Better rural connectivity is essential for strengthening Punjab’s rural economy. It will help people reach their workplaces, enable students to attend educational institutions more conveniently and allow rural residents to access markets and essential services with greater ease.”
The Chief Minister added, “Development cannot be measured merely by the infrastructure built in big cities. It must also be measured by the opportunities, convenience and dignity it brings to ordinary people living in villages. Our aim is to build a Punjab where geographical distance does not become a barrier to education, employment or progress.”
Congratulating the people on the occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated that the state government would continue its efforts to strengthen public transport and ensure that every village remained connected to Punjab’s growth and development.
During this, Transport Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh, and other official were also present.
*Bhagwant Mann Government Strengthening Rural Connectivity And Creating Employment*
The Bhagwant Mann government is strengthening Punjab’s public transport network to connect villages with cities, improve access to education and employment, and boost the rural economy. The government has flagged off 100 new 29-seater mini buses for the Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation (PRTC), with the buses allocated across all nine depots.
The new services will operate on rural and small-town routes, making daily travel more convenient for rural residents, workers, small traders and school and college students. The initiative will also generate employment opportunities for approximately 150 drivers and conductors. The government plans to add another 309 full-size buses to the fleet next month, further expanding public transport services across Punjab.
*Depot-Wise Allocation Of 100 mini Buses:*
• Patiala: 25 buses
• Bathinda: 15 buses
• Chandigarh: 15 buses
• Sangrur: 10 buses
• Barnala: 9 buses
• Budhlada: 8 buses
• Kapurthala: 7 buses
• Faridkot: 6 buses
• Ludhiana: 5 buses
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*BJP Is Seeking Votes to Snatch Panjab University, Chandigarh and Punjab’s Water: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Snatching Punjab’s Rights Is Old Habit of BJP: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Modi Govt Has Withheld Punjab’s RDF & VAT Dues for 4.5 Years: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Akalis & BJP Spread Drug Menace Across Punjab, and Now They're Preparing to Reunite: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Opposition Parties Are Frustrated as Public Support Remains Firmly With AAP: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
Patiala; 26th October 2026:Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday tore into the BJP, pointing out it is seeking votes to snatch Panjab University, Chandigarh, and Punjab’s water, while making a habit of depriving the state of its rightful rights and financial dues. Slamming the Modi government for withholding Punjab’s RDF (Rural Development Fund) and VAT (Value Added Tax) dues for four-and-a-half years, he also hit out at the Akalis and the BJP over the drug menace, noting the two parties of damaging Punjab during their previous tenures and now preparing to reunite for electoral gains.
The Chief Minister asserted that Punjab would not tolerate any compromise with its rights and interests, adding that the opposition’s frustration stemmed from the continued public support for the Aam Aadmi Party.
During a media interaction, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “BJP is seeking votes by conspiring to snatch Panjab University, Chandigarh, and Punjab’s water. Denying Punjab its rightful claims has become an old habit of the BJP. The people of Punjab have made immense sacrifices for the country, contributed to its food security and stood firmly at the forefront of national defence, yet the state continues to face injustice at the hands of the BJP-led Union government.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “Punjab will never allow any political party to undermine its interests or compromise the rights of its people. Panjab University is an important institution associated with Punjab’s history, identity and academic legacy, while our water resources are vital to our agricultural economy and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. The people of Punjab will not tolerate any conspiracy to weaken the state’s rights over its institutions, water or financial entitlements.”
Calling out the Modi government for Punjab’s pending financial dues, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Modi government has withheld Punjab’s RDF and VAT dues for the past four-and-a-half years. This prolonged withholding of funds is deeply unjust to the people of Punjab and hampers the state’s ability to undertake essential development and rural infrastructure works. Punjab is demanding nothing beyond its legitimate entitlements, and the Union government must fulfil its financial obligations towards the state.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “The people of Punjab deserve justice, not repeated excuses. Our state has every right to demand its rightful funds, and we will continue to raise our voice firmly against discrimination. No government can indefinitely deny Punjab the resources that rightfully belong to it. Punjab’s development and the welfare of its people cannot be held hostage to the political calculations of the BJP.”
Launching a sharp attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal and the BJP over the drug crisis, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Akalis and the BJP spread the drug menace across Punjab during their tenures in power. Countless families have suffered the emotional and social consequences of addiction, and our youth have paid a heavy price for the failures of these parties. The people of Punjab have not forgotten the damage inflicted on the state’s social fabric.”
He asserted, “The Akalis and the BJP are now preparing to reunite, exposing their political opportunism. Parties that failed Punjab in the past cannot escape accountability by joining hands again for electoral gains. Punjab needs honest leadership, decisive action against drugs and a government committed to protecting the future of its youth, not opportunistic political alliances.”
The Chief Minister noted, “The people will judge political parties by their record and their commitment to Punjab, not by their slogans. Those who compromised the state’s interests cannot erase their past failures through political realignments. Punjab’s future must be built on honest governance, accountability and a firm commitment to the welfare of its people.”
Highlighting the growing public support for the AAP, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The growing support of the people for the AAP has left the opposition frustrated and rattled. Their desperation reflects their inability to counter the people’s trust in our government’s work and commitment to public welfare. Instead of offering a credible alternative, the opposition is struggling to come to terms with the public’s support for AAP.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “Our government is working to safeguard Punjab’s interests, strengthen public services and create better opportunities for its people. We stand firmly with our farmers, youth, workers and ordinary families. Punjab’s progress and the welfare of its people remain our priorities, and we will continue to work with determination to fulfil their aspirations.”
Reiterating his government’s resolve to protect Punjab’s rights, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann affirmed, “Punjab’s rights, dignity and interests are non-negotiable. No political pressure or electoral calculation will deter us from raising our voice against injustice and fighting for what rightfully belongs to the state. The people of Punjab have always stood up against injustice and will continue to do so.”
“Punjab’s water, its institutions and its rightful financial dues cannot be treated as political bargaining chips. We will firmly defend the interests of our state and its people. Punjab has contributed immensely to the nation, and its people deserve respect, fairness and justice. Our government will never compromise on the rights of Punjab,” asserted the Chief Minister.
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-*We're Transforming Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal Into World-Class Tourist Destination: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab Govt Spending ₹17.72 Crore on Beautification of Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal to Be Equipped With Sound System, Improved Sarovar, Sarai and Lighting: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab Govt Making Every Effort to Spread Teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Our Govt Has Always Championed Social, Religious & Public Welfare Initiatives: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Religious Institutions Should Be Managed by Religious Communities, Without Political Interference: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Attends State-Level Celebration in Amritsar on Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji’s Birth Anniversary*
AMRITSAR; 26th October 2026:Paying obeisance to Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji on his sacred Parkash Purab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann reaffirmed the Punjab Government’s unwavering commitment to preserving his divine legacy and spreading his timeless teachings of equality, humanity and righteousness. With ₹17.72 crore being spent on the beautification and development of Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal as a world-class tourist destination, his government is strengthening facilities for devotees while upholding the sanctity of religious institutions.
Reiterating that religious institutions should remain in the hands of religious and learned personalities, the Chief Minister said that Punjab’s soil can nurture every seed, but the seed of hatred can never flourish on this sacred land.
Sharing a few snippets from this auspicious gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, I was blessed with the opportunity to pay obeisance at the state-level function organised in Amritsar on the sacred Parkash Purab of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. ₹17.5 crore has been released today for the development of the shrine. We firmly believe that religious institutions should be managed by religious and learned personalities rather than politicians. In Punjab, every seed can take root, but the seed of hatred can never grow on this sacred land.”
Addressing the gathering during the state-level function to mark the Parkash Utsav of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The spiritual, historical and cultural legacy of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji will be preserved for generations to come.”
Paying obeisance at the sacred shrine on the auspicious occasion, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt greetings to devotees across the country and abroad. He said, “The Punjab Government is following the path of righteousness, equality and humanity shown by Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji to build an egalitarian society where every individual enjoys dignity, respect and equal opportunities.”
Describing Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji as the Pitaamah of Sanskrit literature and the Adi Kavi, the Chief Minister said, “The immortal epic Ramayana composed by Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji has illuminated the path of righteousness for humanity for thousands of years. This timeless composition conveys the eternal message of the victory of good over evil and continues to serve as a beacon of truth, morality, compassion and ethical conduct.”
He said, “The teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji are not confined to any particular period or community but belong to the entire humanity.”
The Chief Minister said, “The immortal creation of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, the Ramayana, continues to guide society towards truth, justice, equality and righteousness. At a time when materialistic considerations increasingly influence human relationships, the ideals enshrined in this sacred epic are more relevant than ever.”
Emphasising the significance of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji’s teachings in contemporary society, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji laid down enduring ideals of an exemplary individual, an ideal ruler and an ideal society.”
The Chief Minister said, “These principles can inspire society to rise above divisions and build a future founded on mutual respect, social justice and brotherhood. Punjab is blessed with the legacy of great Gurus, saints, seers and prophets, and it is a matter of immense pride that Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji imparted knowledge and training to Luv and Kush, the sons of Prabhu Shri Ram Ji, on this sacred land.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann described the opportunity to pay obeisance at the holy site as a matter of profound spiritual satisfaction and privilege.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to the comprehensive development of the shrine, the Chief Minister said, “The Punjab Government is spending ₹17.72 crore during the financial year 2026–27 on various development and beautification works at Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal. A magnificent panorama depicting the life and teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji was dedicated to devotees in 2024 at a cost of ₹25 crore.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Façade lighting has also been installed to enhance the beauty of the shrine, lending the sacred complex a magnificent and divine appearance at night.”
The Chief Minister said, “The development of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji’s Tirath Sthal is not merely an infrastructure project but an expression of our deep reverence for Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, whose teachings have enriched humanity for centuries.”
He said, “We want devotees to experience the spiritual magnificence of this sacred place while ensuring that its rich heritage is preserved and presented to the world. The state government will continue to provide the necessary resources for the holistic development of the shrine and undertake all additional works required to improve facilities for devotees.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “There is no shortage of funds for the development of this blessed land, and the government will leave no stone unturned in fulfilling its commitment.”
He said, “The government is committed to strengthening the ideals of communal harmony, peace and brotherhood across Punjab.”
Emphasising that religious institutions should remain rooted in their spiritual traditions, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Religious institutions should be managed by people associated with the respective faiths, without unnecessary political interference.”
The Chief Minister further highlighted that under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojna, devotees were being facilitated in visiting Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal along with other prominent sacred places in Amritsar, enabling more people to pay obeisance at these revered sites.
Calling upon people to draw inspiration from the life and philosophy of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The true tribute to Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji would be to translate his teachings into action by promoting equality, compassion, righteousness and mutual respect in everyday life.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann called upon people to follow the path shown by Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji and build a society where no one faces discrimination, every individual is treated with dignity, and the bonds of brotherhood and harmony grow stronger with every passing day.
*Bhagwant Mann Is Transforming Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal Into World-Class Tourist Destination*
The Bhagwant Mann Government is spending ₹17.72 crore during 2026–27 to develop and beautify Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal (Ram Tirath) in Amritsar, with the objective of transforming the sacred site into a world-class tourist destination.
*Development and Beautification*
• The Bhagwant Mann Government is spending ₹17.72 crore during 2026–27 on various development and beautification works at Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal.
*Facilities Being Improved at the Shrine*
• Main Temple: Renovation and beautification of the main temple building.
• Sound System: Installation of a new sound system.
• Security: Installation of CCTV cameras for devotees’ safety.
• Sacred Sarovar: Cleaning of the holy sarovar and related works.
• Sewage and Accommodation: Commissioning of a sewage treatment plant and installation of air conditioners in the temple and sarai, involving expenditure of ₹2.60 crore.
*Major Projects Already Undertaken*
• Panorama: A panorama showcasing the life and teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji was dedicated to devotees in 2024 at a cost of ₹25 crore.
• Façade Lighting: Lighting has been installed to enhance the shrine’s appearance, particularly at night.
*Tourism and Pilgrim Facilities*
• The government is committed to developing the shrine as a world-class tourist destination.
• Further works will be undertaken as required to improve facilities for devotees.
• Under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojna, devotees visiting Amritsar are facilitated in paying obeisance at Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal along with other prominent sacred sites.