SANGRUR; 30th April 2026:
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday laid out a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable agriculture and long-term water conservation, calling upon farmers across Punjab to shift decisively towards canal-based irrigation and reduce excessive dependence on groundwater.
Interacting with villagers during his visit to his native village Satauj, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann underlined that Punjab’s future is inseparably tied to its water resources and that preserving them is both an urgent necessity and a collective responsibility. “Punjab’s very existence is intrinsically linked to its water, and preserving it is not merely a policy priority but a moral responsibility,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, while announcing that canal water will be made available from May 1 itself for the upcoming paddy season, marking a significant shift from conventional irrigation schedules.
He added, “This is the first time in Punjab’s history that canal water is being released from May 1 to benefit farmers ahead of the paddy sowing season.”
Highlighting the scale of the initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that 21,000 cusecs of water has already been released into the canal network to facilitate early irrigation. “We are committed to ensuring that every single drop of water is conserved and utilized efficiently,” he stated.
Reaffirming Punjab’s rights over its water, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab has neither shared any water with other states nor allowed any flow towards Pakistan, ensuring that the entire allocation is utilized for the benefit of our farmers.” He pointed to the alarming depletion of groundwater due to decades of over-extraction and stressed the need for an immediate shift in approach.
“Groundwater is a precious and finite resource that must be preserved for future generations. The time has come for a collective shift in mindset. Canal water is not just an alternative, it is the sustainable future of Punjab’s agriculture,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, urging farmers to reduce reliance on tube-wells.
Detailing the government’s efforts, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since March 2026, ₹6,700 crore has been spent on irrigation projects across Punjab, with approximately 14,000 kilometers of pipelines and watercourses laid to ensure efficient water distribution and minimize losses.” He added that before the current paddy season, an additional 4,000 kilometers of watercourses and 3,000 kilometers of pipelines will become operational.
“The 21,000 cusecs of water being released will also help test these systems, identify bottlenecks, and address deficiencies. The scale of this infrastructure development is unprecedented and reflects our commitment to modernising Punjab’s irrigation network,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said.
Underscoring the magnitude of the effort, the Chief Minister noted, “The volume of water being released is equivalent to two Bhakra canals, which will provide immense relief to farmers and significantly reduce dependence on groundwater.” He further added that the initiative will aid groundwater recharge through dedicated schemes, ensuring long-term sustainability.
“It is not just about the current crop cycle, it is about securing the future of Punjab’s agriculture and ensuring that coming generations inherit a sustainable ecosystem,” he said.
Expressing a deep personal connection, the Chief Minister said, “This is my village, my people. I know everyone here personally, and that makes this visit even more special.” He appealed directly to villagers, stating, “Do not extract excessive groundwater through tube-wells. Every drop saved today will safeguard our tomorrow.”
Highlighting further measures, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that groundwater recharge points have been established at intervals of every 20 meters along canal networks to enhance natural replenishment of underground water reserves.
On the legislative front, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann described the passage of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026 as a historic step. “This law ensures stricter punishment for acts of sacrilege and sends a clear message that any attempt to desecrate sacred texts will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said. He added, “Such acts are not merely crimes against religion but offenses against humanity, often aimed at disturbing peace and harmony.”
“With this law in place, those found guilty will face exemplary punishment. It will act as a strong deterrent and ensure that such heinous acts are not repeated,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, while reaffirming that the teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji continue to guide society towards righteousness and unity.
Announcing another major reform, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Punjab Government has taken a historic decision to shift high-tension electricity wires passing through agricultural fields underground.” He informed that the project is currently in the execution phase and will soon begin as a pilot initiative.
“This will eliminate risks to human life, prevent crop damage, and remove constraints on agricultural operations. It will be a game-changer for farmers,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, adding that the pilot will begin from his native village, covering around 413 tube-wells and 1,100 electricity poles spread across 2,000 acres.
Reiterating the broader vision, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our goal is clear, to empower farmers, conserve natural resources, and build a prosperous and sustainable Punjab. Every decision taken by the Punjab Government is guided by the welfare of our people and the legacy we leave for future generations.”
“Our Government is committed to the well-being of every section of society and no stone is being left unturned to achieve this,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added.
