*‘AI Kranti’ under Bhagwant Mann Govt to boost farmers’ income & secure Punjab’s future*
*Agriculture is no longer profitable, AI now necessary to save farmers from crisis: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab fed nation but paid with its soil & water, time to protect farmers’ future: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Leaders who promoted drugs and crime are coming together to again ruin Punjab, people must stay alert: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Those mocking ₹1,000 aid to women don’t understand struggles of common people, they spend ₹5,000 on one meal: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*I have no share in buses, dhabas, sand or liquor, my only share is in people’s pain: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
LUDHIANA, 20th March, 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday positioned Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the next big turning point for Punjab’s agriculture, arguing that traditional farming has hit its limits and can no longer sustain farmers’ incomes. Making a strong case for technological intervention, he said the move is aimed at reversing declining profitability, reducing pressure on natural resources, and securing the future of farmers.
At the same time, he sharpened his political attack on the opposition, calling them out for pushing Punjab into crisis through years of neglect, and asserted that his government is now rebuilding the state with reform-driven policies focused on farmers, infrastructure, and welfare.
Addressing the state-level Kisan Mela at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab has been the food bowl of the country, making India self-reliant in food production. The hardworking and resilient farmers of the state scripted a new chapter during the Green Revolution of the 1960s. However, in serving the nation, farmers have sacrificed precious natural resources like fertile soil and water.”
He noted the growing crisis in agriculture, stating, “With shrinking profit margins, agriculture is no longer a profitable proposition, and farmers are struggling for basic subsistence. The production potential of existing crop technologies has nearly plateaued. To enhance real farm incomes and check over-exploitation of resources, it is imperative to introduce AI in agriculture.”
Highlighting the benefits of the move, the Chief Minister said, “This technology will guide farmers on what crops to sow and when, to maximise both profit and productivity. Punjab has always been a frontrunner in adopting innovation, and AI will revolutionise this sector. Its introduction is the need of the hour to safeguard farmers’ interests.”
Listing pro-farmer initiatives, he continued, “For the first time, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power was supplied to farm tube wells during the paddy season. Farmers are now receiving daytime electricity for irrigation, transforming their lives. Punjab farmers are also getting the highest sugarcane price in the country at ₹416 per quintal. Every year, around ₹80,000 crore is paid to farmers for wheat and paddy procurement, with payments transferred directly to bank accounts within 24 hours. Between 2022 and 2025, ₹6,700 crore has been spent on canal lining, repair, and modernisation, which is 300% more than previous years. Canal irrigation usage has increased from 20.90 lakh acres in 2022 to 58 lakh acres today.”
Emphasising irrigation expansion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Canal irrigation capacity has doubled, with irrigated area rising from 2.23 million acres in 2022 to 5.8 million acres in 2025. As many as 15,539 canals have been cleaned and 18,349 water channels restored. Canal water has reached 1,444 villages after decades. Additionally, 101 abandoned canals spanning 545 km have been revived, and the Ferozepur Feeder Canal was upgraded in a record 35 days, increasing capacity by 2,682 cusecs.”
He added that after 75 years, the Sirhind Canal has been upgraded, increasing its capacity by 2,844 cusecs. The 22-km-long Sarhali Minor canal, buried underground for decades, has been traced and made operational again. The Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusecs, but we have increased supply to 10,000 cusecs, effectively creating a new canal without acquiring a single inch of land. For decades, farmers depended on rotational water supply, but this system has now ended, providing major relief. Despite having just 3% of the country’s agricultural land, Punjab contributes around 40% of wheat and 31% of rice to the national pool. Punjab is rightly called the Food Bowl of India, and farmers along with PAU have played a crucial role.”
Highlighting academic excellence, he noted, “As per the National Institutional Ranking Framework, PAU ranked first among 75 public agricultural universities in 2023, 2024, and 2025. According to EduRank, it is among the top 100 institutions globally. The government is committed to further upgrading its infrastructure.”
Highlighting diversification, the Chief Minister added, “A ₹1,300 crore project supported by JICA has been approved to expand horticulture. Investments in machinery, infrastructure, marketing, seeds, and research will increase horticulture area from 3.56 lakh hectares to 16 lakh hectares by 2036, a 300% rise. Punjab is also likely to host the Asia Cup Hockey after a long gap.”
Pointing to women-centric welfare, he further added, “Under the Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana, every woman will receive ₹1,000 per month, and ₹1,500 for Scheduled Caste women. Funds will be directly transferred to bank accounts, and even those receiving pensions will be eligible. Around 97% of women will benefit, with ₹9,300 crore allocated. Registration begins from April 13. Those mocking this scheme do not understand the value of ₹1,000 for common people. Those who spend over ₹5,000 on a single meal from illegally earned money fail to appreciate its importance. Their families may not need it, but for ordinary people, it is meaningful support.”
Targeting the opposition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “While the government works tirelessly for people’s welfare, opposition leaders only seek a share in success. These forces promoted drugs and crime, which is why people removed them from power. Now they have united again, and Punjabis must unite to defeat them. I have no share in buses, dhabas, sand, or liquor businesses. My only share is in the pain of Punjabis, and I am committed to addressing their problems. Traditional leaders ruined Punjab, and their hands are stained with its suffering. Punjab was once a prosperous state, but greedy leaders destroyed it for personal gain. People have already taught them a lesson, and the time is coming to push them into complete political oblivion.”
Taking aim at Akali leadership, he said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal is the biggest and a chronic liar, driven only by selfish motives. The Badal family only waits for power to plunder the state. They have no concern for Punjab or its people and only seek to misuse power.”
He further listed initiatives by the AAP government, stating, “The government has launched a major programme to repair 43,000 km of link roads across Punjab. Along with repair, their maintenance will also be ensured for the next five years. The state organised events to mark the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with reverence. Nagar Kirtans were held across the state, culminating at Sri Anandpur Sahib. A special Vidhan Sabha session was also held there on November 24, 2025 to pay tributes.”
On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian and others were also present.
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*Ayushman Bharat has conditions, AAP Govt’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna guarantees ₹10 lakh cashless treatment without restrictions, difference is in intent: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*In 4 years, AAP Govt recruits as many doctors as previous govts did in decades, fixing Punjab’s long-neglected healthcare system: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Over 5 crore OPD visits, Aam Aadmi Clinics becoming the backbone of everyday healthcare: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*94% patients satisfied with Aam Aadmi Clinics, AAP Govt’s healthcare model winning public trust: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*883 Aam Aadmi Clinics already operational, 400 more to expand free treatment access: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Mission Amrit helping save thousands of heart attack patients across 23 districts: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab becomes first in country with AI-based cancer screening, AAP Govt brings cutting-edge tech into public healthcare: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*PET scan facilities to be introduced in four cities by 2026, strengthening access to advanced cancer diagnosis: Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Those trying to mislead people about Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna don’t want to see Punjab healthy: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Presents report card of the health department in last four years: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
CHANDIGARH, 20 March 2026:Continuing his series ‘Shandaar Chaar Saal Bhagwant Mann De Naal’, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday presented the four-year report card of the health sector, after earlier detailing the AAP Government’s work in agriculture and irrigation. Drawing a sharp contrast between a “condition-ridden” Ayushman Bharat and the AAP Government’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, he asserted that the difference lies in intent and delivery, positioning the initiative as a model of universal, accessible healthcare.
Presenting data-driven outcomes, the Chief Minister asserted the AAP Government has moved beyond announcements to visible change on the ground, from guaranteeing ₹10 lakh cashless treatment without restrictions to building a system that people actively use and trust. Taking aim at the people who are spreading misinformation, the Chief Minister said those spreading canards about the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna do not want to see Punjab healthy.
Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is a comprehensive healthcare plan for the well-being of all, and those spreading canards about this ambitious scheme don’t want to see Punjab healthy.” He stated that the AAP Government has launched this scheme to ensure that all residents, especially those from weaker sections, have direct access to quality treatment. “To provide comprehensive healthcare, we have launched Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, a first-of-its-kind scheme in the country that provides cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident family in Punjab,” he added.
Calling it a matter of pride, he said, “Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage, which will significantly ease the financial burden on the public while ensuring quality health services.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further stated that the scheme aims to provide universal healthcare, with government employees, pensioners, and all citizens eligible for health cards through facilitation centres, Common Service Centres, or online registration using Aadhaar or voter cards. “The scheme has received a massive response, with people coming forward in large numbers to avail its benefits, giving major relief to families who otherwise have to spend huge amounts on treatment,” he noted.
Raising concern over misinformation, the Chief Minister said, “Some anti-Punjab forces who don’t want people to benefit from such facilities are spreading canards about this scheme. These misnomers are aimed at discouraging people from availing its benefits, which is unwarranted and undesirable.” He added that the Punjab Government has empanelled the majority of private hospitals under the scheme, with government-fixed rates for around 2600 ailments and treatments.
Drawing a comparison with the Centre’s Ayushman Yojna, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is a boon for people, whereas Ayushman is a sham.” He explained, “The Centre has allocated merely ₹9300 crore for a population of 140 crore, whereas Punjab has allocated ₹2000 crore for just 3 crore people. This means Punjab is spending nearly ten times more per capita, and unlike Ayushman, there are no restrictive conditions in our scheme.”
Highlighting the scale of implementation, he noted, “Around 900 government and private hospitals in Punjab and Chandigarh have been empanelled, 25 lakh beneficiaries have been registered, and over 1.6 lakh people have already received treatment.” He added, “₹1200 crore was allocated for 2025–26, and ₹2000 crore has been earmarked for 2026–27. The scheme covers 2,356 medical and surgical procedures, including orthopaedics, general medicine, heart, lung, kidney diseases, cancer treatment, and more.”
Presenting the health department’s four-year report card, the Chief Minister said, “883 Aam Aadmi Clinics are operational across Punjab, and 100 more will be dedicated on March 28. Additionally, 400 clinics are under construction where 47 tests and 107 medicines are available free of cost, with a patient satisfaction rate of 94%.” He added, “OPD footfall has crossed 5 crore, with 1.69 crore patients treated for specific conditions, and this model is now recognized across India.”
On strengthening human resources, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab has witnessed the largest recruitment of doctors in its history since 2022, including 948 general doctors and 627 specialists, accounting for 35% of total government doctor recruitment in over 75 years.” He further stated, “300 nursing staff and 250 pharmacists have been recruited, and recruitment of 672 nurses is underway.”
Focusing on maternal and child healthcare, he said, “Seven Mother and Child Health Centres with 250-bed capacity each are under construction, and the Dhuri centre with 30 beds was inaugurated on March 17. Free medicines are now available in all hospitals.” He added that infrastructure strengthening remains a priority, with hotline services operational in all district hospitals and 33 out of 42 sub-divisional hospitals. “The remaining hospitals will receive hotline services by April–May 2026, and more than ₹400 crore has been spent on advanced medical equipment,” he noted.
The Chief Minister further stated, “22 Critical Care Blocks with 50 beds each are under construction, and diagnostic services are being significantly expanded. MRI services will be available in all district hospitals by October 2026, marking a 500% increase, while CT scan services have been expanded by 33%.” He added, “PET scan facilities will be introduced in Amritsar, Faridkot, Mohali, and Patiala, and more than 200 empanelled private diagnostic centres are providing free X-ray and ultrasound services.”
Highlighting emergency response initiatives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Farishte Scheme and Sadak Surakhya Force are ensuring immediate cashless treatment to accident victims. Helpers are rewarded with ₹2000 and a certificate, and more than 600 lives have been saved.”
On technological interventions, he said, “Dialysis services have been expanded and capacity doubled to 4800, reducing waiting time. For the first time in the country, AI-enabled cancer screening was conducted between September 2025 and March 2026, with 9,294 women screened for breast cancer.” He added, “Vision screening was conducted for 1.07 lakh people, with 21,660 identified with vision issues.”
Detailing critical care initiatives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under Mission Amrit, the Punjab STEMI Project has been implemented in 23 districts for heart attack care, enrolling 29,000 patients and identifying more than 1700 STEMI cases.” He added, “The AI-enabled Punjab Stroke Project, in collaboration with CMC Ludhiana and Medtronic, has already benefited more than 100 patients.”
He further stated, “The first-of-its-kind Punjab Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences is providing major relief to people.” Highlighting preventive health initiatives, he said, “Under the CM Ki Yogshala campaign, 8000 yoga sessions are held daily, benefiting around 2 lakh people.”
On medical education, the Chief Minister said, “Seven new medical colleges are under construction, which will add 600 new MBBS seats, helping develop Punjab as a hub of medical education.” He concluded, “The Punjab Government will leave no stone unturned to make Punjab healthy and progressive in the coming times.”
Cabinet Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and others were also present on the occasion.
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*India’s second-largest Tata Steel plant starts operations in Punjab, thousands of youth to get employment*
*In October 2023, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann laid foundation in Ludhiana and inaugurates it on Friday*
*Plant to generate employment for 2,700 youth directly & 10,000 indirectly: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab’s youth now getting jobs at home, no need to leave country despite holding top degrees: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Industries left due to flawed policies of previous govts, we are bringing them back with pro-industry policies: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*We have requested Tata Group to start flights for Punjabis living in Western countries: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
LUDHIANA, 20th March 2026:Punjab’s industrial revival story under the AAP-led government received a major push as Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated Tata Steel’s second-largest plant in India in Ludhiana, positioning it as proof of a decisive policy shift from the past. With thousands of jobs promised and green energy-driven steel production launched for the first time in the country, the CM drew a sharp contrast with previous governments, asserting that industries that once left Punjab due to flawed policies are now returning under a pro-industry regime. The plant, set up in Ludhiana at a cost of ₹3200 crore, marks a major step towards transforming Punjab’s industrial landscape.
Addressing the gathering after unveiling Tata Steel’s second-largest plant, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann stated, “This is a momentous day as history has been created to give a major fillip to the economic development of the state. Today Punjab has become the first state in India to start steel production using green energy through this Electric Arc Furnace-based plant. It is a red-letter day for Punjab as Tata Steel has taken responsibility to illuminate the future of 2600 to 2700 families directly and 8000–10,000 indirectly. This world-class plant is equipped with cutting-edge green energy technology.”
Congratulating the Tata Steel team, he said, “When a company like Tata Steel invests in a state, it reflects trust, confidence and belief in its future. Tata Steel’s presence sends a clear message that Punjab is ready for the next phase of industrial growth. This investment is not just a project, but an opportunity for the youth of Punjab, our engineers, our skilled workforce and for Punjab’s manufacturing sector to grow stronger.”
Emphasising the future vision, the Chief Minister continued, “Punjab has always been a land of entrepreneurs and cities like Ludhiana are globally recognised for their entrepreneurial spirit, hard work and manufacturing strength. With modern facilities like this Tata Steel plant, we are strengthening our legacy and preparing Punjab for the future of manufacturing. This is Tata Steel’s first Electric Arc Furnace-based plant in India, which shows that Punjab is attracting not just investment, but modern and future-ready investment. Such production reflects the global shift towards efficiency, sustainability and better use of resources.”
Reiterating the government’s industrial vision, he asserted, “We want Punjab to become one of the most preferred industrial destinations in India. We want companies to see Punjab not just as a market, but as a long-term manufacturing partner. Tata Group is globally known for its social responsibility, and Ratan Tata had always led from the front in this regard.”
Recalling a personal example, he shared that Ratan Tata had even started a dog shelter at Bombay House for stray dogs after seeing them struggle during the monsoon. Describing him as the ‘Desh ka Beta’, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that when he passed away, the entire nation mourned his contribution to nation-building and reputation. Punjab is proud to be the first state to start steel production using green energy.
Recalling his visit to Japan, the Chief Minister added, “Countries like Japan are already moving towards large-scale use of green energy, and this project reflects that Punjab is investing in the future. Punjab’s strong air, rail and road connectivity makes it an ideal destination for business. We have raised the issue of starting more flights to Europe and other Western countries with the Tata Group.”
Describing Punjab’s legacy, he reiterated that the state is a blessed land of Gurus, saints, seers, martyrs and patriots where every seed can grow except that of hatred. Punjab has contributed immensely to food security and national defence, earning the titles of ‘Food Bowl’ and ‘Sword Arm’ of the country. The plant will act as a major generator of employment across the state.
Highlighting the scale of the project, he added, “Today we are writing history as Tata is not only investing money but also its reputation. The plant, spread over 115 acres, saw its investment rise from ₹2,600 crore to ₹3,200 crore and will use 100% steel scrap as raw material, making it environmentally sustainable. The Tata Group operates in over 100 countries across six continents and employs more than one million people. Punjabis believe in honest and dedicated work, which has always strengthened the bond between industry and workforce. The state government is actively attracting investment to boost industrial growth.”
Detailing achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised, “Over the past four years, investments worth ₹1.58 lakh crore have been secured, creating employment opportunities for more than five lakh youth. Our approach is simple i.e. stable policies, fast decisions and strong industry partnerships. The state government should act as a facilitator, not an obstacle, and must make it easier for industries to invest and expand.”
Reaffirming commitment, he said, “Punjab is ready, it welcomes investment and supports industry that creates jobs and strengthens the economy. Every new factory and investment helps the state move closer to generating employment. When industries grow, Punjab grows, and when Punjab grows, the country grows. When industry creates jobs, youth find opportunities within the state, putting Punjab on a high growth trajectory. From traditional industry to advanced manufacturing, Punjab is moving towards global competitiveness and a strong industrial ecosystem.”
Appreciating collaboration, the Chief Minister added, “Industrial development is always a partnership. When government and industry work together with trust and clarity, projects move faster and outcomes become stronger.” He expressed hope that this project will become a key pillar in Punjab’s industrial growth story. This project will encourage more companies to look towards Punjab as a serious manufacturing destination.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann assured full support to Tata Steel and the industry, stating that they are partners in Punjab’s progress. “This project is an important milestone in the economic development of the state. It will help transform Punjab into an industrial hub and accelerate economic growth. The day is not far when Punjab will lead the country not only in agriculture but also in industry,” he concluded.
Earlier, Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora welcomed the dignitaries. On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora, Hardeep Singh Mundian, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and others were present.
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*Punjab Government invests ₹2042 crore in free bus travel for women—A strong initiative by Mann Government: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*1.20 crore free bus rides every month—major relief for women across Punjab*
*Mann Government reaffirms strong commitment to women empowerment
Chandigarh, March 20:Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government continues to take consistent, people-centric and impactful steps towards empowering women, bringing meaningful change in their lives.
Sharing details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that approximately ₹2042 crore has been spent on providing free bus travel to women from the financial year 2022–23 to 2025–26. She elaborated that ₹495 crore was spent in 2022–23, ₹497.50 crore in 2023–24, ₹450 crore in 2024–25 and ₹600 crore in 2025–26 under this scheme.
The Cabinet Minister further informed that around 1.20 crore free bus rides are being availed by women across Punjab every month, clearly reflecting the popularity and effectiveness of this initiative.
She emphasized that this facility is not merely about free travel, but a transformative step that is bringing a new wave of freedom and confidence into the lives of women. It is enabling them to access education, employment and healthcare services without financial constraints, thereby making them more self-reliant and empowered.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further stated that women empowerment is the foundation of a progressive society, and the Punjab Government remains fully committed to strengthening it. She added that more impactful and welfare-oriented initiatives will continue to be undertaken in the coming times for the well-being of women.
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*Punjab Government sets up 11 new Boards for welfare of Backward Classes: Malkit Singh Thind*
*Self-employment, scholarships and welfare schemes benefitting thousands*
*Thind directs seamless delivery of schemes to every eligible beneficiary*
Chandigarh, March 20:Reaffirming its strong commitment to the social and economic upliftment of Backward Classes, the Punjab Government has established 11 new welfare boards. This was stated by Chairman, Punjab State Backward Classes Commission, Sh. Malkit Singh Thind, while chairing a meeting with Chairmen, Vice-Chairmen and Members of the newly constituted boards at Punjab Bhawan. He said that with the support of the Department of Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, several welfare initiatives are already underway and the newly formed boards will further strengthen outreach at the grassroots level.
During the meeting, officials of BACKFINCO informed that concessional loans are being provided to individuals from Backward Classes and economically weaker sections for self-employment activities such as grocery shops and dairy farming. Individuals aged between 18 to 55 years and residing in Punjab are eligible. In addition, education loans are also being provided to students with the support of NBCFDC.
Highlighting major schemes, it was informed that under the Ashirwad Scheme, ₹89 crore has been disbursed during 2025-26, benefiting 17,533 beneficiaries. Similarly, under the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme for OBC students, a budget of ₹12.59 crore has been earmarked, with 10,092 applications received through the NSP portal till February 15, 2026.
It was further informed that proposals have been sent to the Government of India for the construction of hostels for OBC boys and girls at Punjabi University, Patiala, and funds are expected soon. The department is also ensuring strict implementation of reservation policies for Backward Classes in government jobs and educational institutions.
Sh.Thind directed all board members to ensure that no eligible individual faces difficulty in obtaining Backward Class certificates and instructed that such cases be immediately taken up with the concerned district authorities.
Among those present were Sh. Sukhwinder Singh, Chairman, Kamboj Welfare Board; Sh. Bari Salmani alias Abdul Bari, Chairman, Punjab State Muslim Welfare Board; Sh. Ram Kumar Mukari, Chairman, Saini Welfare Board; Sh. Gurmeet Singh Bawa, Chairman, Vairagi Welfare Board; Retd. Brig. Raj Kumar, Chairman, Gujjar Welfare Board; Sh. Keshav Verma, Chairman, Swarnkar Welfare Board; Sh. Makhan Lal Pal, Chairman, Sain Samaj Welfare Board; Sh. Daniel Masih, Chairman, Masih Welfare Board; Sh. Satpal Singh Sokhi, Chairman, Ramgarhia Welfare Board; and Sh. Raju Kanojia, Chairman, Kanojia Welfare Board.
Nodal Officer of the Department of Social Justice, Sh. Sukhsagar Singh, and officials of BACKFINCO, including Sh. Sukhwinder Singh, were also present.
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*Construction of Sri Guru Ravidass Bani Adhyayan Centre to Commence Soon: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema visits Dera Sachkhand Ballan to review project blueprints*
*World-Class Guru Ravidass Bani Adhyayan Centre with Capacity for 500 Students to Come Up in Jalandhar: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Dedicated Interpretation Hall, Hostels, and Modern Facilities Planned at Guru Ravidass Bani Adhyayan Centre: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*AAP Govt Committed to Taking Teachings of Guru Ravidass Ji to Global Audience Through New Study Centre: Harpal Singh Cheema*
CHANDIGARH / JALANDHAR, 20 March 2026:Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday announced that construction work for the much-anticipated Sri Guru Ravidass Bani Adhyayan Centre near Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar district will commence shortly, following the successful preparation of its official layout plan. The announcement came during his visit to Dera Sachkhand Ballan, where he personally reviewed the proposed plan and took stock of the project’s progress.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema informed that to facilitate the project, the Punjab Government has successfully taken possession of 10.50 acres of land in the villages of Naugajja and Faridpur. He further stated that the layout plan has received formal consent from the current head of the Dera, Sant Niranjan Dass Ji, paving the way for the next phase of development.
“The tendering process will be completed swiftly so that the project’s construction can be formally initiated. The facility is designed to be a comprehensive hub for learning and spiritual research. The center will feature an Administrative Block equipped with modern classrooms, a dedicated library, and specialized coaching facilities designed to accommodate up to 500 students simultaneously as they study the teachings of Guru Ravidass Ji. Furthermore, a dedicated Guru Ravidass Bani Interpretation Hall will be constructed to exhibit materials and artifacts related to the life, teachings, and philosophy of Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj Ji,” he stated.
Highlighting the broader vision of the project, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema added that the campus will also include extensive residential and recreational amenities. “The campus would also offer extensive residential and recreational amenities, including separate hostels for boys and girls, residential quarters for teachers, a canteen, and dedicated volleyball and basketball grounds,” he added.
Emphasising the significance of the initiative, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that the project is being undertaken under the leadership of Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann with the aim of taking the teachings of Sri Guru Ravidass Ji to a global audience. “The Punjab Government is fully determined to preserve and promote the spiritual and social heritage of Guru Ji. This world-class study center will serve as a milestone in connecting future generations with the holy Bani and taking this message to a global audience,” he affirmed.
The Finance Minister was accompanied by MLA Balkar Singh, MLA Inderjit Kaur Mann, Chairman of the Punjab State Cooperative Agricultural Development Bank Pawan Kumar Tinu, Vice Chairman of the Punjab School Education Board Prin. Prem Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, AAP leaders Rajwinder Kaur Thiara, Dinesh Dhall, and other notable personalities.
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