CHANDIGARH; 22nd June 2026:

In a series of key decisions aimed at safeguarding the interests of students and parents, boosting industrial development, strengthening digital governance and improving administrative accessibility, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday approved an ordinance to regulate fee hikes by private unaided schools, amended industrial incentive guidelines, gave concurrence for implementation of the State Data Integration Platform (SDIP) and approved the creation of the post of Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) along with supporting staff for Dasuya Sub-Division under District Hoshiarpur.

*Regulates Fee Hike By Private Unaided Schools*

Disclosing the information, the Chief Minister’s Office stated, “In order to regularize unnecessary and unreasonable increase in fee by Private Non-Aided Schools, the Punjab Cabinet led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday gave nod to bring Punjab Regulation of Fee of Un-aided Educational Institutions (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026.”

The Ordinance has been brought by amending the Punjab Regulation of Fee of Unaided Educational Institutions Act, 2016.

The move is aimed to have an effective control over fee hikes, to provide protection to students and parents from arbitrary fee hikes, to ensure transparency and accountability in fee structure and to protect the interests of students and parents.

The amendments aim to bring greater clarity in the definitions of fee, Fee Enhancement and Cumulative Fee Enhancement, to place a cap of five percent on annual fee hike by Un-aided Schools and to provide for prior approval of the Regulatory Body for any fee hike beyond five percent.

*Approves Amendment In Guidelines For Disbursement Of Capital Subsidy/Investment Incentives To Give Fillip To Industrial Development*

In another significant decision, the Cabinet also gave consent to amend the Guidelines dated November 13, 2019 for disbursement of Capital Subsidy/Investment Incentives under the State’s Industrial Policies to give boost to industrial development. The amendments aim to simplify and streamline the process of subsidy disbursement, improve administrative efficiency and ensure uniform implementation across eligible industrial units.

Under the revised framework, capital subsidy will be released to industrial units, who become eligible after omission of Clauses 1.1 and 1.2 of the guidelines, subject to verification of requisite documents and fulfillment of prescribed conditions.

*Gives Concurrence For The Implementation Of SDIP In Punjab*

To integrate various databases of different departments of the state, avoid any duplicity and streamline existing processes, the Cabinet also gave its concurrence for the implementation of the State Data Integration Platform (SDIP) in Punjab.”

A three-tier steering committee will be set up under the Chief Secretary for ensuring implementation of the SDIP project in a smooth and hassle-free manner.

The steering committee will comprise Chief Secretary, Punjab, as Chairperson, Administrative Secretary, Good Governance, as Member-Convener and Administrative Secretaries of other departments as members of the committee.

*Nod For The Creation Of The Post Of ADC And Other Supporting Staff For Dasuya Sub-Division*

The Cabinet also gave nod for the creation of the post of Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) and other supporting staff for Dasuya Sub-Division under District Hoshiarpur.

It will considerably help the people of the area who have to travel a considerable distance for district-level administrative work, approvals, revenue matters and redressal of public grievances, thereby causing several difficulties, including time and financial constraints, and leading to delays in the disposal of public-related matters.

Therefore, keeping in view the convenience of the people of this area, consent has been given to create five posts, including Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), along with other supporting staff at Dasuya Sub-Division under District Hoshiarpur.

Chandigarh, June 22:

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament from Sangrur, Shri Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, has welcomed the recent judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court recognising the right of pedestrians to use demarcated footpaths as a fundamental right, terming it a landmark decision that strengthens the constitutional guarantee of safe and dignified mobility for every citizen.

Meet Hayer said that the judgment has added significant weight to concerns that he had raised in the Lok Sabha regarding the safety and mobility rights of pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorised road users on National Highways.

The MP informed that he had raised the issue in Parliament through Question on July 31, 2025, seeking clarity from the Union Government on whether it recognises the right to safe mobility of pedestrians, cyclists and non-motorised users along or across National Highways and what measures were being taken to ensure safe and accessible infrastructure for vulnerable road users.

“Unfortunately, despite the seriousness of the issue, the Central Government gave a vague and largely procedural reply, merely referring to existing guidelines, surveys and road safety audits without clearly recognising safe mobility as a right or outlining a concrete roadmap for ensuring pedestrian-safe infrastructure across all National Highways,” Meet Hayer said.

He added that the Supreme Court has now unequivocally held that the right to walk is a fundamental right under Part III of the Constitution, thereby establishing what should have been acknowledged much earlier by the Government.

“The Supreme Court’s judgment is a new ray of hope for millions of pedestrians, cyclists, senior citizens, women, children and persons with disabilities. It will go a long way in ensuring that road infrastructure in the country is designed with people at its centre and not merely vehicles,” he said.

Meet Hayer further stated that the judgment would prove to be a milestone in enforcing the constitutional right to movement and would encourage authorities at all levels to prioritise footpaths, safe crossings, universal accessibility and other essential pedestrian infrastructure in future projects.

Notably, a Bench comprising Justice P.S. Narasimha and Justice A.S. Chandurkar observed that, “The right to walk is a fundamental right under Part III of the Constitution. It is integral to the right to movement guaranteed under Article 19(1)(d), read with Article 19(1)(a), Article 19(1)(b), Article 19(1)(c) and Article 21 of the Constitution of India.”

Chandigarh, 21 June 2026:

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sardar Kultar Singh Sandhwan today made a fervent appeal to the public to embrace yoga on the occasion of International Yoga Day. He emphasized that yoga has the transformative power to change lives and bestow a long, disease-free life.

In his message, the Speaker highlighted that incorporating yoga into daily routines brings profound peace of mind and fosters a healthy lifestyle. “We all should dedicate at least half an hour every day to yoga to shield ourselves from various ailments,” Speaker Sandhwan said.

Speaker Sandhwan said that “CM Di Yogshala” is a flagship initiative by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to provide free yoga training to the people of Punjab by certified yoga instructors. This program aims to promote healthy living, prevent lifestyle diseases, and bring yoga into every household across the state.

Speaker Sandhwan heartily thanked to AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for this flagship CM Di Yogshala scheme. He stressed that yoga was historically seen as an exclusive heritage for the Kings, this initiative has democratised the Yoga, allowing the common man to achieve a longer, healthier life.

Expressing concern over rising health issues, the Speaker stressed that modern lifestyles have led to an increase in severe health conditions such as depression, brain strokes, and heart diseases. He asserted that daily exercise and yoga serve as the ultimate remedies to combat these modern health crises.

Speaker Sandhwan further added that regular doing yoga will not only maintains health but also helps to eliminate existing diseases from the root. Motivating citizens on this global occasion, he reiterated that every individual has the right to live a qualitative life, which can be achieved through a daily 30-minute yoga practice. He concluded with a vital call to action for the public: “Adopt yoga and stay healthy”.

Mohali:

ऑल इंडिया पंजाब नेशनल बैंक ऑफिसर एसोसिएशन (एआईपीएनबीओए) की मोहाली सर्किल इकाई द्वारा द्वितीय त्रिवार्षिक सम्मेलन 2026 का भव्य आयोजन मोहाली स्थित होटल बेस्ट वेस्टर्न प्लस में किया गया। सम्मेलन में देशभर से आए बैंक अधिकारियों, संगठन के वरिष्ठ पदाधिकारियों एवं बैंक प्रबंधन के प्रतिनिधियों ने भाग लिया।

कार्यक्रम की अध्यक्षता एआईपीएनबीओए के महासचिव कॉम. दिलीप साहा, अध्यक्ष कॉम. कुशल गुप्ता, कार्यकारी अध्यक्ष कॉम. जी. वेंकन्ना, चेयरमैन कॉम. कौशिक घोष, पंजाब नेशनल बैंक लुधियाना जोन के जोनल प्रबंधक रामानुज प्रसाद, मोहाली सर्किल प्रमुख बिस्वजीत बिस्वाल, वाइस प्रेसिडेंट रोहित कक्कड़, एजीएस लुधियाना जोन अजय अग्रवाल, ऑर्गनाइजिंग सेक्रेटरी एवं मोहाली सर्कल सेक्रेटरी अमनदीप सिंह, नवनियुक्त मोहाली सर्कल प्रेसिडेंट विनोद दहल तथा एक्स मोहाली सर्कल प्रेसिडेंट संजीव दयोड़ा की गरिमामयी उपस्थिति में किया गया।
सम्मेलन के दौरान बैंक अधिकारियों से जुड़े विभिन्न मुद्दों, कार्यस्थल की चुनौतियों, बैंकिंग क्षेत्र में बदलते परिवेश तथा भविष्य की योजनाओं पर विस्तृत चर्चा की गई। वक्ताओं ने कहा कि बैंक अधिकारी देश की आर्थिक प्रगति और वित्तीय समावेशन को मजबूत करने में अहम भूमिका निभा रहे हैं।

इस अवसर पर मुख्य अतिथि के रूप में उपस्थित जोनल प्रबंधक रामानुज प्रसाद ने कहा, “पंजाब नेशनल बैंक के अधिकारी अपनी प्रतिबद्धता, मेहनत और ग्राहक सेवा के माध्यम से बैंक की प्रगति में महत्वपूर्ण योगदान दे रहे हैं। बैंक प्रबंधन और अधिकारियों के बीच बेहतर समन्वय से संस्थान नई ऊंचाइयों को प्राप्त करेगा।”
एआईपीएनबीओए के महासचिव कॉम. दिलीप साहा ने अपने संबोधन में कहा कि, “संगठन हमेशा बैंक अधिकारियों के अधिकारों, सम्मान और पेशेवर विकास के लिए प्रतिबद्ध रहा है। बदलते बैंकिंग परिदृश्य में अधिकारियों की भूमिका और अधिक महत्वपूर्ण हो गई है।”
एआईपीएनबीओए के ऑर्गनाइजिंग सेक्रेटरी एवं मोहाली सर्कल सेक्रेटरी अमनदीप सिंह ने कहा कि संगठन भविष्य में भी अधिकारियों के हितों की रक्षा करते हुए बैंकिंग सेवाओं को और अधिक मजबूत बनाने के लिए कार्य करता रहेगा। सम्मेलन का समापन सौहार्दपूर्ण वातावरण और संगठन की एकता एवं मजबूती के संकल्प के साथ हुआ।

PHAGWARA; 18 June 2026:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday launched a blistering attack on the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Congress, asserting that the era of political parties taking turns to rule Punjab is over and that those responsible for betraying the state’s trust will be held accountable. During a massive gathering during a Lok Milni in Phagwara, the Chief Minister said that while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)’s Jhaadu is cleaning Punjab’s political system, the Akalis and Congress, two sides of the same coin, are struggling for political survival after decades of pursuing vested interests.

Pointing out that the Akali leadership is misleading people and questioning their credibility, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that those who lied before Sri Akal Takht Sahib cannot be loyal to anyone. He further remarked that the Congress is on its death bed due to its internal infighting, while Punjab is witnessing unprecedented progress in education, healthcare, power and welfare under the people-centric governance of the AAP Government.

Addressing a Lok Milni in Phagwara, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Gone are the days when these parties used to play musical chairs and wait for their turn of power. Actually, these parties safeguarded each other’s interests during their days in power due to which their misdeeds were never exposed. However, now the people have elected the Aam Aadmi Party and the symbol of this party, the jhaadu, is cleansing the political system of the state. The day is not far when the Akalis will be behind bars for their sins.”

The Chief Minister said, “Akalis and Congress are two sides of the same coin. They are not concerned about the people but are concerned only about their vested interests. They themselves executed sacrilege incidents at many places and lied before Sri Akal Takht Sahib and later agreed too. They got police officers killed during terrorism and even gave promotions to guilty police officers. They bestowed themselves with the title of Fakr-e-Qaum whereas they had facilitated the safe exit of the culprits of the 1978 incident.”

Lashing out at the Akali leadership, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Sukhbir Badal is not aware about the ground realities because throughout his life he has lived in a secured environment with luxuries and opulence. Sukhbir Singh Badal is a convent educated political leader of Punjab who is not aware of the basic topography of the state but wants to attain political power in Punjab. Leaving everything aside, the former Deputy Chief Minister cannot even differentiate the basic crops of the state because he has scant knowledge about the basic issues.”

Referring to the issue of sacrilege, the Chief Minister stated, “Whenever incidents of sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji took place, the psyche of millions of people was deeply hurt. The Almighty has blessed me with the wisdom and strength to bring this Bill after detailed consultation with legal experts. The state government has drafted this Bill carefully so that no future amendments or loopholes would weaken it.”

The Chief Minister further noted, “This Bill will act as a deterrent for anti-social elements to indulge in any such sin in future and no one will ever be able to indulge in this heinous crime. The Akalis were never sincere about making such a law when they were in power. The truth is that their intentions were flawed. The Akalis allowed sacrilege incidents to take place for their political gains. They even admitted their mistakes before Sri Akal Takht Sahib but later denied them publicly. Those who can lie before the Takht can never be loyal to anyone. People must remain cautious of such individuals who are not loyal to anyone and only want political power to plunder the state.”

The Chief Minister said, “The Akalis misused religion for their vested interests. The Jathedars are appointed from the pockets of the Akalis due to which they are indulging in politics. These people have no agenda and their sole aim is to defame me by hook or by crook. People are aware of the dubious character of these leaders and they will never get swayed by their theatrics.”

Taking a swipe at the Congress party, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Congress party is on its death bed and will be finished very soon because it has no vision for the people and the state. Their only aim is to plunder the wealth of Punjab by assuming power but their dreams will never be fulfilled. The Congress party is a divided house that will collapse due to its infighting. It is a pity that the top Congress leaders who come to unite these leaders squabbling for power are not even aware how to pronounce their names.”

Emphasising the role of governance in shaping the future of Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The work of any government is to provide wings to children so that they can script a new success story in life. Every file signed by me is aimed at the benefit of the common man and the state. More than 67,000 government jobs have been provided to youth without corruption or recommendation. Every decision of the state government is aimed at the progress of the state and prosperity of its people.”

Highlighting the transformation in the education sector, the Chief Minister stated, “Schools of Eminence have been set up across the state to impart quality education to students. These schools have been equipped with smart classrooms, fully equipped laboratories and playgrounds for scientific learning. To upscale the expertise of teachers, a special programme has been embarked upon under which teachers and principals are being sent abroad for training to make sure that they are well versed with modern teaching practices and can prepare students for future competitions in the international arena. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that Punjab has ranked first in the National Achievement Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing even Kerala.”

The Chief Minister further said, “Students are being offered specialised coaching for competitive examinations such as Armed Forces Preparation, NEET, JEE, CLAT and NIFT. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that students from Schools of Eminence and other government schools have qualified for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced and NEET examinations. Punjab has become the first state to provide free healthcare to all citizens and around 1,000 Aam Aadmi Clinics are providing free treatment daily.”

Referring to the power sector reforms undertaken by his Government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Since the AAP government assumed charge in 2022, around 90% households of the state are receiving free electricity. For the first time in the history of Punjab, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power is being supplied to farm tube wells during the paddy season and that too during the daytime. The AAP Government has laid 14,000 kilometres of pipelines and watercourses across the state to facilitate farmers in every nook and corner of Punjab.”

The Chief Minister said, “As much as 21,000 cusecs of water has been released through these pipelines and watercourses to benefit farmers by catering to their irrigation needs. This water released by the state government is equal to the water supplied by two Bhakra canals. Farmers across Punjab will be immensely benefited by this initiative. Recharge points have been created in canals and rivers so that groundwater levels can improve, and water levels have already increased by two to four metres in several areas.”

The Chief Minister said that the AAP Government remains committed to ensuring that the benefits of development reach every village, every farmer and every household of the state.

Highlighting the people-centric governance model of the AAP Government, the Chief Minister stated, “The taxpayers’ money is being judiciously spent on the welfare of the people and it is coming back to them through development, schools, hospitals and roads. The state government is now working for the people and has closed toll plazas, thereby saving ₹70 lakh of the people’s money every day. The AAP Government is making strenuous efforts for the well-being of every section of society and no stone is being left unturned for this noble cause.”

Referring to the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The AAP government has started the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna under which women above 18 years of age from all other categories will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from the Scheduled Caste category will receive ₹1,500 per month as financial assistance. For ordinary people, especially the poor, ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 is a significant amount. This amount is a mark of respect for mothers and daughters and the smile on women’s faces due to this scheme gives me great satisfaction.”

Highlighting the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the Chief Minister stated, “In order to provide comprehensive healthcare to people, the AAP Government has launched the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the first-of-its-kind scheme in the country that provides cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident family in Punjab. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage, which has significantly eased the financial burden on the public while ensuring quality health services.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “This historic move is aimed at providing universal healthcare to all families of the state. People have availed free treatment worth more than ₹650 crore under the scheme so far.”

The Chief Minister stated, “Today Punjab is making rapid strides in every field because the state government has taken every step for the comprehensive development of Punjab. The AAP Government has taken path-breaking initiatives in health, education, power and other sectors. Work on the construction of more than 49,000 kilometres of rural roads is going on in full swing and will be accomplished soon.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has closed 19 toll plazas in Punjab, which is saving ₹64 lakh daily from the pockets of common people in toll fees. The AAP Government has hitherto fulfilled every promise made to the people of the state and Punjab is the first state to do so. The sole agenda of the state government is to ensure the progress of the state and the prosperity of its people.”

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister announced a grant of more than ₹18 crore for the development of the Phagwara Assembly segment.

The Chief Minister said, “No stone will be left unturned for the progress of the constituency.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also directed the Deputy Commissioner to ensure that the ADC Phagwara is given more powers so that people of the segment do not have to travel to Kapurthala for petty works.

Highlighting the objective behind the Lok Milni programme, the Chief Minister said, “Lok Milnis are not associated with politics. The sole aim of the state government is to usher in development and prosperity. Lok Milnis act as a pivotal bridge between the government and the masses. The AAP government is working tirelessly for the well-being of the people and several key initiatives have already been taken in the state.”

Lok Sabha MP Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal and several other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

TANDA (HOSHIARPUR); 17th June 2026:

Declaring that Punjab’s future can no longer be held hostage to the mistakes and misdeeds of the past regimes, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said the state has suffered immensely over the decades but is now moving steadily towards a new era of growth, opportunity and prosperity. During a Lok Milni at Bhattlan village in the Tanda constituency, the Chief Minister said Punjab, despite being blessed with fertile land, abundant water resources, a favourable climate and a hardworking people, was denied its full potential by successive governments that failed to put the interests of the state first.

The Chief Minister said the Punjab Government is committed to creating opportunities for the youth, strengthening education and healthcare, and building a Rangla Punjab where no young person feels compelled to leave for foreign shores in search of a better future.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to justice, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann assured people that past Beadbi (sacrilege) cases would be thoroughly investigated and those responsible would be sent to jail, while adding that the stringent law enacted by the state government would act as a strong deterrent against any future incidents.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The incidents of Beadbi at Bargari and the firing incidents at Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura bruised the conscience of every Punjabi, especially the Sikh Sangat. These wounds are still fresh in the minds of the people. I want to assure every Punjabi that justice will prevail and those responsible for these heinous crimes will not be spared.”

The Chief Minister said, “Our government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure justice. The perpetrators of these crimes will be brought to justice and sent behind bars. We have enacted the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Act, 2026, which provides stringent punishment for Beadbi. This law will ensure that no one dares to commit such an unpardonable offence in future.”

“Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is like a father to every Sikh. It is our collective duty to uphold its sanctity and respect. If a government cannot safeguard the honour of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, then it fails in its most fundamental responsibility towards society,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Taking on the Akali leadership, the Chief Minister said, “Those who sought votes in the name of Gurbani failed to protect the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. They used religion for political gains and the people of Punjab have not forgotten the pain caused by the incidents that occurred during their rule.”

He pointed out, “Some leaders talk about development during their tenure, but they conveniently forget Bargari, Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura. Punjab can never forget those painful chapters. The sins committed against the people and against Punjab’s social fabric can never be erased.”

Speaking about Punjab’s journey, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab has suffered enough. It was devastated during Partition in 1947, suffered again in 1984 and then endured years of loot and exploitation under successive governments. We cannot allow Punjab’s progress to be halted anymore.”

“The Almighty has blessed Punjab with fertile land, abundant water, favourable weather and hardworking people. There is no shortage of resources in Punjab. The only thing Punjab lacked for years was leadership that put the interests of the state above personal and political interests,” he added.

Making an emotional appeal to the youth, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “No young person should feel compelled to dream only of Canada, America or other foreign countries. We are creating opportunities here in Punjab. Together, we will build a Rangla Punjab where our youth can realise their aspirations while staying close to their families and roots.”

The Chief Minister said, “For years, families were pushed into difficult circumstances. Parents were left behind while their children moved abroad in search of opportunities. We are changing that reality by strengthening education, healthcare, employment generation and infrastructure.”

Referring to the massive gathering, the Chief Minister said, “The sight of mothers, sisters, elders and youth gathering here in such large numbers reflects the strong bond between the people and this government. This is not merely a political programme; it is a meeting with my family.”

“The entire Punjab is my family. It is my responsibility to ensure jobs for the youth, quality education for children and quality healthcare for every household. The affection and trust shown by the people inspire me to work even harder,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Announcing major relief for women employees, the Chief Minister said, “The Punjab Government has decided that Group C and Group D women employees will be posted within a 40-kilometre radius of their homes. I have directed officers to prepare the framework for implementing this initiative at the earliest. Thousands of women employees, including staff nurses, teachers and women police personnel, will benefit from this decision. We are committed to making governance more sensitive and responsive to the needs of women.”

Highlighting another pioneering initiative, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab has launched the country’s first ambitious project to shift high-tension electricity wires underground. This project will free villages from dangerous overhead wires and unnecessary poles. Overhead wires pose risks to people, livestock and agricultural machinery. Crop fires, storms and accidents frequently damage the power infrastructure. This project will provide long-term relief to people and improve safety across villages.”

The Chief Minister stated, “Today, more than 90% households in Punjab are receiving free electricity. Farmers are receiving power during the daytime, which was once considered impossible. This has helped farmers save thousands of rupees that were earlier spent on diesel for generators.”

He further said, “The AAP Government has laid more than 14,000 kilometres of pipelines and watercourses and released 21,000 cusecs of water to strengthen irrigation across the state. Recharge points have also been created to improve groundwater levels and ensure sustainable water management.”

Highlighting welfare initiatives, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Under the Mavaan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, women above 18 years of age from all other categories will receive ₹1,000 per month, while women from the Scheduled Caste category will receive ₹1,500 per month. This assistance is a mark of respect for our mothers and daughters.”

The Chief Minister said, “The smiles on the faces of women benefiting from this scheme give me immense satisfaction. The government stands firmly with every family and every woman of Punjab.”

Speaking about healthcare, the Chief Minister said, “The Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is a revolutionary step towards universal healthcare. Every resident family in Punjab is entitled to cashless treatment worth up to ₹10 lakh annually.”

“It is a matter of immense pride that Punjab has become the first state in the country to provide such comprehensive healthcare coverage. So far, people have availed treatment worth more than ₹650 crore under the scheme. This initiative has significantly reduced the financial burden on families while ensuring access to quality healthcare,” added CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Dr Ravjot Singh, MLAs Jasbir Singh Raja Gill and Karambir Singh Ghuman, along with several other dignitaries, were also present.

Sharing a few snippets from this Lok Milni, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “I am deeply grateful for the immense love and blessings showered upon me by the people, especially the mothers and sisters, who attended the Lok Milni at Bhattlan village in Hoshiarpur today. Your support reflects your unwavering faith in our policies and governance. Grant cheques for development works were handed over to Bhattlan village and several other panchayats in the area. Along with this, a major decision has been taken to post police constables, clerks and ASHA workers within a radius of just 40 kilometres from their homes. The AAP government will continue working day and night for Punjab’s bright and prosperous future.”

Mohali,  08 June  

 CGC University, Mohali, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), celebrated ‘World Bicycle Day 2026’ with immense fervor and enthusiasm. The event was organized under the ‘Fit India Movement’, a flagship campaign of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, inspired by the vision of Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

More than 500 cyclists, including university students, faculty members, staff, sports enthusiasts, and local residents, actively participated in this special bicycle rally. The primary objective of the rally was to promote physical fitness, a healthy lifestyle, environmental conservation, and a sense of community through cycling.

The grand bicycle rally was officially flagged off by Sardar Rajinder Singh (Senior Olympic Gold Medalist, Indian Hockey Legend, Arjuna Awardee-1997, Dronacharya Awardee-2003, former National Coach of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team, and current Technical Lead/Director, RoundGlass Sports Hockey). His esteemed presence filled the participants with great energy and motivation.

Shailender Kumar, Regional Director of the Sports Authority of India, graced the occasion as the ‘Guest of Honor’. He highly appreciated the exemplary efforts of CGC University, Mohali, in promoting fitness and social engagement among the youth.

Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries highlighted the importance of cycling, stating that it is not only an economical and effective means of staying physically fit but also plays a vital role in creating a pollution-free environment. They urged everyone to unite in building a healthier society.

During the event, the participating cyclists were also encouraged to become members of the ‘Namo Fit India Cycling Club’. The club aims to create a nationwide network of cycling enthusiasts to foster a culture of a healthy lifestyle in every corner of the country.

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director of CGC University, said, “The successful organization of World Bicycle Day 2026 reflects CGC University’s unwavering commitment to the holistic development of students, social responsibility, and national campaigns. Through such impactful initiatives, the university will continue to promote fitness, environmental sustainability, and nation-building values to contribute toward a stronger and healthier India.”

ROPAR, 8th June 2026:

Addressing a Lok Milni programme among residents of Badwa village in Rupnagar (Ropar) on Monday, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the people of Punjab had decisively rejected the politics of loot, privilege and deception in 2022 by voting out seven former Chief Ministers and their families and placing their faith in an honest government. Taking aim at the Congress, BJP and Akalis, he said these parties have no development agenda for Punjab and remain interested only in power and vested interests. He asserted that while opposition leaders are unable to digest Punjab’s progress under the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government, every rupee of taxpayers’ money is now being spent on public welfare rather than on luxuries for those in power.

The Chief Minister also said that the BJP imposed anti-farmer laws, the Akalis misused religion for political gains, and the renewed Akali-BJP alliance is merely an opportunistic attempt to regain power, which the people of Punjab will firmly reject.

Addressing the gathering on Monday, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Aam Aadmi Party is giving nightmares to leaders of traditional political parties who have misused power for their vested interests for decades. More than 700 farmers were martyred during the agitation against the anti-farmer laws imposed by the BJP. It is a fact that the BJP has always treated Punjab unfairly and today these parties are attempting to divide people in the name of religion for political gains.”

Taking a strong swipe at the renewed alliance between the Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the alliance would prove politically disastrous for both parties because it is based neither on ideology nor on any commitment towards public welfare. He said, “This alliance is aimed solely at grabbing power in Punjab. Leaders of both parties have repeatedly spoken against each other and hurled accusations at one another. The people of Punjab are asking with what face they will now seek votes together. The people will not be misled by such political theatrics and will teach them a befitting lesson in the coming days.”

Highlighting the work of his government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he has dedicated his sweat and toil to ensuring the all-round development of Punjab and that every passing day is witnessing new pro-people initiatives aimed at improving the lives of citizens. He said, “Unlike my predecessors, I have never taken even a single penny from the public exchequer. Rather, I have ensured that every rupee belonging to taxpayers is spent judiciously for public welfare. As the son and brother of the people of Punjab, I have focused on sharing their hardships and solving their problems instead of living a life of luxury.”

The Chief Minister said that no previous ruler had ever reached out to people in such a direct manner to understand their difficulties and resolve them with dedication. He said that earlier governments remained confined within the walls of palatial residences and rarely interacted with ordinary citizens. “Those arrogant politicians remained disconnected from the people and today they are baffled by every initiative of the Punjab Government. On the other hand, I remain among the people, seeking feedback and framing development-oriented and citizen-centric policies that are accelerating Punjab’s progress,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that his government’s continuous efforts for Punjab’s development have left opposition leaders frustrated. “They cannot digest the fact that the welfare of common people and the progress of Punjab are now the government’s top priorities. Their constant criticism only reflects their desperation. I may not have experience in looting public wealth, but I certainly know how to share the pain of ordinary people and resolve their issues. I am working with complete dedication for the prosperity of Punjab and its people, and that is what troubles the opposition,” he added.

Criticising previous governments, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that regions blessed with immense natural beauty and abundant resources were neglected for years because successive governments failed to harness their potential. He said that for decades only two political formations alternated in power while exploiting the sentiments of people and looting the resources of the state.

“The people of Punjab now have an alternative in the ‘jhaadu’(AAP’s electoral symbol), which has cleansed the political system of the state. In the 2022 Assembly elections, the people rejected seven former Chief Ministers and their families and entrusted power to an honest government. That historic mandate has played a pivotal role in transforming Punjab and making it a frontrunner among Indian states,” he said.

Highlighting the achievements of the AAP Government in the irrigation sector, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab utilised 96% of available canal water this year through an improved irrigation system, significantly benefiting farmers. He said that water that earlier went waste is now being productively utilised across agricultural areas. The Chief Minister said, “The AAP Government has laid 14,000 kilometres of pipelines and watercourses across the state to ensure irrigation facilities reach every corner of Punjab. Around 21,000 cusecs of water have been released through these pipelines and watercourses, helping farmers meet their irrigation requirements. This quantity of water is equivalent to the supply of two Bhakra canals and will immensely benefit farmers.”

He further said that recharge points have been developed in canals and rivers to improve groundwater levels. “As a result, the groundwater table has risen by two to four metres in several areas. This demonstrates how taxpayers’ money is being utilised responsibly and returned to people through development projects, schools, hospitals, roads and other welfare initiatives,” he added.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the AAP Government has also closed toll plazas, saving people nearly ₹70 lakh every day. He reiterated that public money is being spent solely for public welfare and not for the benefit of a select few.

Highlighting healthcare reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that nearly 1,000 Aam Aadmi Clinics have been established across Punjab, where 107 medicines and 47 diagnostic tests are being provided free of cost. He said that no previous government in the last 75 years had bothered to provide such healthcare facilities to ordinary citizens. “These clinics have strengthened people’s faith in government healthcare institutions. Around 75,000 people visit these clinics every day for treatment, demonstrating the trust people have developed in this initiative,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that every penny from the state exchequer is being utilised for the welfare of Punjab’s people. He stated that more than 90 per cent of households in the state are receiving free electricity and that farmers are now receiving daytime power supply, a long-standing demand that had remained unfulfilled for decades. “At a time when valuable national assets are being handed over to select corporate interests at throwaway prices, Punjab has created history by purchasing a private thermal plant and naming it after Sri Guru Amardass Ji. This reflects our commitment to strengthening public assets rather than weakening them,” he said.

Speaking about women’s welfare, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Punjab Government has launched the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna under which women above 18 years of age from all other  categories receive ₹1,000 per month while women from the Scheduled Caste category receive ₹1,500 per month. “For ordinary families, especially poor households, ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 is a significant amount. More importantly, this assistance represents respect and dignity for mothers and daughters. The smiles on the faces of women benefiting from this scheme provide immense satisfaction,” he said.

Highlighting educational reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that teachers and principals from government schools are being sent abroad for specialised training to enhance their professional skills and improve classroom teaching standards. He said that Punjab has achieved the top rank in the National Achievement Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing even Kerala.

The Chief Minister said, “Students in government schools are now receiving specialised coaching for competitive examinations such as Armed Forces preparation, NEET, JEE, CLAT and NIFT. I am delighted to share that nearly 300 students from Schools of Eminence and other government schools have qualified for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced and NEET examinations. These achievements demonstrate the remarkable transformation taking place in Punjab’s education sector.”

He said that for the first time in Punjab’s history, farmers are receiving electricity during daytime hours for irrigation, which has transformed agricultural operations and improved farmers’ quality of life.

Drawing a comparison with the BJP government in Delhi, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that while Punjab is continuously expanding welfare initiatives for common people, similar programmes have been discontinued elsewhere after governments changed. “These parties have always opposed policies aimed at benefiting ordinary citizens and remain reluctant to implement people-centric programmes,” he said.

Speaking about healthcare coverage, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Punjab Government has launched the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the first scheme of its kind in the country to provide cashless medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh to every resident family in Punjab. “It is a matter of immense pride that Punjab is the first state in India to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage. This scheme has significantly reduced the financial burden on families while ensuring access to quality healthcare services. More than ₹650 crore worth of free treatment has already been availed by beneficiaries,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that for the first time in Punjab’s history, farmers have been provided more than eight hours of uninterrupted power supply to agricultural tube wells during the paddy season. He reiterated that every rupee from the public exchequer is being spent for public welfare and development.

Highlighting infrastructure development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Punjab Government has launched a massive programme for the repair and upgradation of link roads across the state. He said that Punjab has approximately 43,000 kilometres of link roads and that a comprehensive project has been launched to repair and modernise them. “The AAP Government has taken another historic decision. Along with repairing these roads, their maintenance will also be ensured for the next five years. This will guarantee better connectivity and improve transportation facilities for rural and urban residents alike,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that the AAP Government has also launched the country’s first dedicated Sadak Surakhiya Force to improve road safety and save precious lives on state and national highways. “Specially trained and newly recruited personnel, including women, have been deployed as part of this force. A total of 1,597 personnel supported by 144 fully equipped vehicles are working across Punjab’s highways. Since the launch of the force in February last year, road accident fatalities have declined by 48.10%,” he said.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the force has been deployed across 4,200 kilometres of accident-prone highways and functions both as a rapid response mechanism and as a deterrent against traffic violations. “Even Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has appreciated this initiative on the floor of Parliament,” he added.

Speaking about the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Act 2026, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Almighty had bestowed upon him the opportunity to serve humanity through this historic legislation. He said, “Under this law, anyone found guilty of ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) can face imprisonment ranging from ten years to life imprisonment along with a fine of ₹50 lakh. If the offender fails to pay the fine, their property can be sold. The purpose of this law is to ensure that future generations understand the serious consequences of hurting people’s sentiments by disrespecting Sri Guru Sahib Ji.”

Expressing hope that the legislation would act as a strong deterrent against beadbi, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji occupies a sacred place in the hearts of Sikhs and that it is the responsibility of the government to protect its sanctity. “Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is like a father to every Sikh. It is our collective duty to ensure its respect and sanctity. If the government does not take responsibility in this regard, nobody else will. The Akalis misused religion for their political interests and the people have not forgotten that. We are fortunate to have been entrusted with the responsibility of passing this historic legislation, which will help prevent such incidents in the future,” he added.