Chandigarh, May 3

Highlighting state’s continued upward trajectory in fiscal health, Punjab Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Saturday announced that the state has registered highest-ever monthly Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection of Rs 2653.77 crore in April this year reflecting a significant 19.77 percent increase compared to the corresponding period last year, and jump of 30.84 percent over March 2025.

Revealing this in a press communiqué issued here, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that this robust growth underscores the effectiveness of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab government’s economic policies and the increasing compliance among taxpayers. He said that the gross GST revenue collection for April 2025 marked an increase of Rs 438.07 crore when compared to the gross collection of Rs 2215.70 crore recorded in April 2024, and a substantial increase of Rs 625.63 crore over the gross GST collection of Rs 2028.14 crore in March 2025.

Expressing his satisfaction with this significant achievement, Finance Minister Cheema said that this remarkable surge in GST collection reflected the positive impact of state government’s proactive measures in streamlining tax administration, enhancing compliance, and fostering a conducive business environment.

The Finance Minister further emphasized that this substantial growth in revenue will provide a significant boost to the state’s exchequer, enabling the government to further invest in crucial sectors such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. This increased financial capacity will empower the state to better serve its citizens and accelerate its overall progress, he added.

The Finance Minister also lauded the diligent efforts of the officers and officials of the Taxation department and the cooperation extended by the taxpayers in achieving this milestone. He reiterated the AAP-led state government’s commitment to maintaining a transparent and efficient tax system that promotes economic growth and ensures fair contributions from all stakeholders.

Chandigarh/Sri Muktsar Sahib, May 3:

Punjab Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today lambasted that Haryana is spreading misconceptions of the water sharing issue.

While addressing the media persons on the sideline of the function, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal disclosed all facts related to this matter, asserting that Punjab has not withheld anyone’s rightful share and will neither surrender its own rights nor bow to pressure from the Center or Haryana. He clarified that Punjab’s interests come first for the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government and only Punjab has rights over its waters.

Elaborating on this issue with detailed facts, the Cabinet Minister informed that the water distribution from dams has been occurring according to stored volume for around 44 years. Haryana was allocated 2.987 MAF of water this year and has already utilized its allocated share. He said that Haryana has exceeded its target by using a total of 104 percent of its water allocation, mentioning that the Punjab government has been writing letters to Haryana since January about this matter and keeping the union government informed.

Sh. Goyal revealed that a letter was also written on March 17, 2025, warning Haryana that it was not using its share of water judiciously, which could lead to difficulties in the coming days. However, instead of improving its water management, Haryana consumed all its water allocation by March itself. He said that on March 31, Haryana requested for drinking water, indicating that it needed 1500 cusecs of water for its population of 2.8 crores, at a standard rate of 135 liters per person per day. It also requested 1149 cusecs for Delhi and cited additional needs for industry and even animals, totaling a demand of 4082 cusecs. Out of humanitarian consideration, the Punjab government began releasing 4000 cusecs of water for Haryana from April 4 to meet drinking water requirements, but now Haryana is demanding 8500 cusecs, which is impossible to provide.

Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that Haryana argues previous governments had provided this water. The Water Resources Minister said that previous governments failed to protect Punjab’s water resources and Punjab wasn’t even utilizing its own share then. However, since Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government took office, continuous efforts have been made to ensure water reaches Punjab’s fields. He said that within three years, we have ensured full water supply reaches the tail ends of canals. More than 16,000 water courses have been constructed and rejuvenated. Similarly, more than Rs.4550 crore have been spent on developing the canal infrastructure, while Rs.3264 crore are being spent this year. In this way, we are no longer letting Punjab’s water go to waste in other states and Punjab’s water is reaching state’s fields, which will increase farmers’ yields while also beginning to conserve groundwater. All these facts clearly showcase that Punjab neither infringes upon anyone’s rights nor relinquishes its own, he added.

Speaking on the issue, Agriculture Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian also said that Punjab does not have surplus water to give to anyone and will protect its rights at any cost.

Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur also reiterated that Punjab’s water is exclusively for our state and the Center or Haryana will not be permitted to plunder it.

MLAs Prof. Baljinder Kaur, Jagdeep Singh Kaka Brar and Hardeep Singh Dimpy Dhillon were also present on this occasion.

Chandigarh, May 3:

The Punjab Government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is consistently working towards empowering women, making them self-reliant and strengthening their role in society. Disclosing this, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the State Government has implemented a Free Bus Travel Scheme for women across Punjab. Under this scheme, during the years 2023-24 and 2024-25, women in the state availed over 13 crore free bus rides, benefitting immensely from this initiative.

Dr. Baljit Kaur added that this significant initiative by the Punjab Government has provided women easier access to education, employment, healthcare, and other essential services. This scheme has not only ensured convenient travel facilities for women but has also encouraged their personal freedom, dignity, and active participation in every sphere of life.

She further informed that prioritizing women’s safety, the State Government recently launched ‘Project Hifazat’, aimed at providing a safe and reliable environment for women. Alongside, a comprehensive plan has been prepared to establish Working Women Hostels across Punjab, offering safe and well-equipped accommodation facilities for working women, enabling them to lead a secure and stress-free professional and personal life.

Dr. Kaur emphasized that this scheme is liberating women from the burden of travel expenses, motivating them to explore better employment opportunities. It is playing a pivotal role in laying the foundation of an empowered and progressive society.

In conclusion, Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann’s government remains fully committed to realizing the dream of a vibrant, prosperous, and capable Punjab.

Jalandhar, May 3:

Accelerating the anti-drug campaign in the state, the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday administered oath to hundreds of Village Defence committees so that they can wipe out drug from their respective areas adding that Punjab will be made drug free state by May 31.

The Chief Minister, accompanied by state AAP President Aman Arora and LOk SABHA MP Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal, said that this is a decisive step aimed at making the state free from scourge of drugs.  He said as Army chalks out plan before winning the war in the same manner state government has formulated the plan to wipe out drugs from state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that now the war has been declared and will be won shortly with the active support and cooperation of people.

The Chief Minister said that along with the eradication of drug menace the state government is very serious over the rehabilitation of the drug victims. He said that as a part of this only the capacity of the rehabilitation and drug de-addiction centres has been enhanced by 5000 beds. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that apart from detoxification of the drug victims these centres will enable them to live a life of dignity and pride by making them self reliant.

The Chief Minister said drug traffickers are enemies of society who have pushed the youth into the abyss for the sake of their own luxurious lives. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that these smugglers, who live in lavish homes while others suffer, do not deserve forgiveness. He said that all necessary permissions are being obtained to take action against the top-level traffickers, and they will be held accountable for the pain they caused – to widowed women, mothers who lost sons, and sisters longing to tie a rakhi.

The Chief Minister clearly stated that no political leader or any other individual involved in drug trafficking—no matter how influential or powerful—will be spared under any circumstances. Referring to the success of the bulldozer action against drug traffickers, he stated that, for the first time, traffickers in villages are approaching Panchayats to repent and promise not to sell drugs again. Citing an example from a village in Bathinda district, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that when a JCB bulldozer demolished a drug dealer’s house, a woman who had lost her son to drugs distributed sweets and showered flowers on the police — a gesture that reflects the success of the anti-drug mission.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister urged Village and Ward Security Committees to Act as Guardians in Drug-Free Punjab Campaign. He called upon members of Village and Ward Security Committees to take on the role of vigilant guardians, asserting that with their support, Punjab can be freed from drugs and restored to its former vibrant glory. Referring to the government’s three-pronged strategy to combat drugs, Bhagwant Singh Mann explained that the plan includes strict action against drug traffickers, free treatment for addicts, and skill-based rehabilitation to help affected individuals rejoin society with dignity and respect.

Administering an oath to these guardians, the Chief Minister urged them to pledge that no form of drug will be allowed to be sold in their villages or wards. He further called on them to commit to taking addicts to rehabilitation centers and to oppose bail for drug traffickers, either for themselves or on behalf of others. Thanking the panchayats for their overwhelming support of the campaign, Bhagwant Singh Mann highlighted that more than 200 panchayats have passed anti-drug resolutions daily.

The Chief Minister promised that drug-free panchayats would be given special grants to develop as model villages, serving as an inspiration for others. He also praised the significant contributions of women in making this campaign a huge success. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Curse of drugs can be wiped out only with the active support and cooperation of every section of the society.

Condemning the central government’s attempts to deprive Punjab of its water resources, the Chief Minister asserted that his government has fiercely defended the state’s rights, preventing a single drop of water from being diverted to any other state. He said that Unlike previous governments that silently handed over surplus water to neighboring states, his government has taken a firm stand, as water is vital to Punjab’s survival. Bhagwant Singh Mann mentioned that the government has revived long-defunct canals, water courses and distributaries, which has significantly increased canal water supply for agriculture.

Striking an emotional chord, the Chief Minister pledged that he would not shy away from any sacrifice necessary to protect Punjab’s interests. He said that every action of his government is aimed at safeguarding the interests of the state and no stone will be left unturned for that. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government accords paramount importance to the rights of the people and they will not be compromised at any cost.

Touching upon the decision to advance the paddy sowing season to June 1, the Chief Minister  said the move is aimed at avoiding excessive moisture in September and October, which often causes problems for farmers in selling their crops. He also shared that a massive road network project has been launched, involving 19,000 kilometers of link roads, with a total cost of ₹3,500 crore. For the first time in history of state, Using artificial intelligence, 1,200 kilometers of roads that existed only on paper were identified, leading to savings of ₹250 crore, added Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Describing the Sadak Surakhya Force(SSF) as a guardian of humanity, Mann highlighted that road accident deaths have decreased by 49% within a year of its formation. He said that Additionally, cash and valuables worth ₹5 crore have been returned to victims’ families following accidents. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this force has set a new benchmark in effective policing to help the general public by curbing road casualties.

Chandigarh, May 3:

Punjab Water Resources and Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today said that the Punjab Government has boycotted the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) meeting scheduled for today (May 3).

Terming the meeting completely unconstitutional and illegal, Sh. Goyal said that proper protocols had been violated in the scheduling of the 255th Special Meeting. “Under Regulation-3 of the 1976 Regulations, a seven-day notice is mandatory before scheduling a BBMB meeting,” said the Cabinet Minister, adding that “We will not participate in the meeting until BBMB follows proper procedures.”

In a strongly worded letter to the BBMB Chairman, the Punjab Government communicated its position to the BBMB prior to the meeting. The state government conveyed that this meeting has been convened through improper channels and in violation of established regulations.

The letter explicitly references Regulation 3 of the BBMB Regulations issued under the Punjab Reorganization Act 1966, which stipulates that for special meetings convened to address urgent business, a minimum notice period of seven days must be provided to all members.

Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal pointed out that recent BBMB meetings held on April 28 and April 30, 2025 were also convened without adhering to the mandatory notice period. Notices for these meetings were issued merely a day before the scheduled dates on April 27 and April 29, respectively, rendering any decisions taken during these meetings legally questionable.

Water Resources Minister categorically said, “Regulation 3 clearly mandates a minimum seven-day notice for special meetings. The BBMB’s persistent disregard for established procedures undermines the constitutional framework under which it operates.”

He said that as the special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on water sharing issue is scheduled to commence its session on Monday, May 5, 2025. The preparation requirements for this important legislative session further necessitate the adjournment of the BBMB meeting.

The Punjab Government asked that the BBMB should reschedule the meeting in accordance with proper procedural requirements to ensure that all stakeholder states can participate meaningfully in the decision-making process.

Chandigarh/ Nangal, May 3:

Punjab’s Education and Information & Public Relations Minister, S. Harjot Singh Bains, revealed blueprint to develop Nangal as a world-class tourist destination under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership. He emphasised that the promises made with public in 2022, are being fulfilled, with tangible progress on the ground, marking a shift from ‘foundation stones to foundation of work’.

With the inauguration of the multi-crore flyover, he said that Nangal’s development has gained momentum. The flyover, once was a longstanding problem, is now fully operational, boosting business and easing commutes for citizens. Its completion has brought relief and new energy to the city.

Highlighting the reforms undertaken in education sector, the Education Minister said that the state government has ensured quality education system and modern facilities in government schools. He also noted a positive shift in BBMB officials’ responsiveness to Punjab government’s directives, attributing this change to collective efforts and strong governance.

S. Harjot Bains said that the upcoming ‘Kadamba Tourist Complex’, set to boost tourism and create new job opportunities for local residents. With tenders in process, construction will start soon. The ambitious project will give Nangal a fresh identity on the tourism map.

To Boosting tourism in Nangal, S. Harjot Singh Bains said that plans are underway to develop a scenic ‘River View’ along the Sutlej river, featuring greenery and modern lighting. Additionally, a ‘Glass Bridge’ near Sutlej Park is also in the pipeline. Tenders have been invited for the projects and construction expected to start soon. These projects will enhance Nangal’s appeal and attract more visitors.

The Education Minister further informed that an ultra-modern indoor swimming pool is being constructed at the School of Eminence at a cost of crores, setting a new benchmark in the state’s sports infrastructure. This pool will hone the local sports talent and put Nangal on the sports map.

Highlighting new initiatives in health and education, S. Harjot Singh Bains said that BBMB has been requested to allocate space for Aam Aadmi Clinics and a high-class library so that people get health and education facilities in the city.

He credited public trust for the progress, citing promises made in 2022 to give Nangal a distinct identity. Under CM Bhagwant Mann’s leadership, the state government priorities transparency, accountability, and public interest. S. Bains concluded that Nangal will emerge as a model tourist destination and also urged to citizens to partner in its development journey and keep the city clean and green for progress.

Garshankar, May 3:

The National Convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)  Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday announced an ambitious initiative to establish Sports Clubs in every village across Punjab to engage youth in constructive activities and steer them away from the menace of drugs.

Addressing the youth leaders through video conference here on today, Arvind Kejriwal emphasized that these clubs will be equipped with ultra-modern sports facilities providing young people with opportunities to excel in athletics and other disciplines. He lauded Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for inspiring youth by highlighting the lives of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and other martyrs instilling a sense of patriotism and purpose among them. Former Delhi Chief Minister expressed hope that the three-day leadership training program would produce a new wave of young game changers who will play a pivotal role in the state’s war against drugs.

Extending his congratulations to the participants, Arvind Kejriwal urged them to actively pursued drug addicts towards De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Centres ensuring that future generations are saved from the scourge of substance abuse. Recalling AAP’s initiatives in Delhi for youth engagement, he mentioned the successful Business Blasters Program for students of classes 11th and 12th, fostering entrepreneurial skills. Former Delhi Chief Minister said that Business leadership is in the blood of Punjabis’ and youth should harness their untapped  potential in sports and enterprise for a brighter future.

Arvind Kejriwal assured fulsome support and cooperation to the youth of the state for this noble initiative and said that no stone will be left unturned for this cause. He said that AAP is committed to youth empowerment and drug eradication by combining sports, education and rehabilitation to build a healthier society. Former Delhi Chief Minister said that the day is not far when these youth leaders, NGOs and other stakeholders will make sure that Punjab is emerged as a drug free and progressive state.

Arvind Kejriwal said that he firmly believes that Youth is full with unbounded energy which needs to be channelized in a proper direction due to which Youth Clubs have an important role to play in society. He said that it is heartening that Punjab government is systematically promoting activities to channelize the energies of Youth into avenues of self development and activities that show value of team spirit. Former Delhi Chief Minister said that the Youth Clubs have been constituted to groom youth having varied talents such as – Team Building, Zeal to help the less privileged by including them in activities, Promotion of Sports and Physical Fitness, Passion to preserve nature and environment, Promotion of Folk Dances, Singing, Art and Craft and Entrepreneurship, to name a few important areas.

Arvind Kejriwal expressed hope that these Youth Clubs will become a potent self propelling positive force to show Youth the right direction for sustainable happiness based on four timeless virtues of Prudence, Justice, Courage and Moderation. He said that this will help to wean away the youth from the menace of drugs and make them an active partner in the social-economic progress of the state. Former Delhi Chief Minister urged all of youth to participate in this movement with full missionary zeal so that Punjab can be made a progressive and prosperous state with your active cooperation and support.

Chandigarh, May 2

          The Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Mr. Bhagwant Singh Mann has started the war against drugs and is emphasizing on making this campaign a people’s movement by encouraging the youth of Punjab to live a drug-free life and participate in this mission aimed at public welfare. The previous governments, in order to fulfill their own interests, turned a blind eye to nefarious activities of drug smugglers and provided political protection to them, which the people of the state know very well. It was stated by Cabinet Minister Mr. Hardeep Singh Mundian while attending the event organized at Majestic Resort Moga.

          Mr. Mundian said that a unique initiative has been undertaken in the form of village guards to eradicate drugs from the state, who will be an army of warriors in the true sense. This will prove to be a decisive battle against the scourge of drugs in Punjab. To spread awareness against drugs, the ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’ will be taken to every village ward and made a people’s movement, so that the State is turned into Rangla Punjab again.

          The Minister said that the youth of Punjab were misled by the unholy alliance between the previous governments and smugglers and our government is cleaning the filth of the previous governments. He said that now there is no political pressure on the police, but action is being taken against drug peddlers and they are being put in jails. He said that the Chief Minister has given a clear message to the drug traffickers that either they should stop selling drugs or leave Punjab. He said that the defense committees formed at the village and ward levels need to play a leading role in eradicating drugs.

          Mr. Mundian said that the State Government is firmly guarding the interests of Punjab and Punjabis, whether it is about drugs or water. The government is ready to fight any kind of battle in this matter and has also called a special session on water issues of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on 5th May.

          During the function, Mr. Mundian administered the pledge to village Panch, Sarpanch, Defense Committees and other dignitaries to root out the scourge of drugs. A large number of people who had arrived in the pandal raised their voices against drugs by holding the flags of the drug eradication march in their hands and standing shoulder to shoulder with the Punjab government. Earlier, a street play was presented by the IPTA team to create awareness about the ill effects of drugs.

          Prominent among others who were present at the occasion included Prof Baljinder Kaur, Dr. Amandeep Kaur Arora, Mr. Manjit Singh Bilaspur, Mr. Davinderjit Singh Ladi Dhos and Mr. Amritpal Singh Sukhanand (all MLAs), MC Moga Mayor Baljit Singh Chani, SSP Ajay Gandhi, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Charumita.

Chandigarh/ Nangal, May 2:

Punjab Education and Information & Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains and Deputy Speaker of Punjab Vidhan Sabha S. Jai Krishan Singh Rouri, on Friday evening, visited Nangal Dam to ensure that Punjab’s water won’t go to Haryana. They also met the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers, safeguarding the dam around the clock, besides taking updates from officials on the current situation. Notably, Harjot Bains visited the dam for the 2nd day in row.

While addressing the media, S. Harjot Singh Bains asserted that Punjab  Government won’t share a single drop of Punjab’s water with Haryana or any other state. He accused the BJP-led Centre of plotting against Punjab’s economy and praised the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s strong stance against BBMB’s move to loot waters of Punjab. The all-party meeting and special Assembly session demonstrate the state government’s commitment to safeguarding Punjab’s interests, he added.

The Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains stated that under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, AAP workers are safeguarding Punjab’s interests like soldiers. He further informed that the officials posted at BBMB’s Nangal Dam and Nakkian, have been instructed to prevent any excess water from being released to any other states.

S. Bains criticised the Centre’s decision to allocate 8,500 cusecs of extra water to Haryana, saying it was a blatant  betrayal with Punjab.

“Water is our lifeline, and we’ll fiercely protect it. Despite Bhakra Dam being in our region and canals originating from here, our villages lack access to water. With paddy season approaching, sharing our water with other states is unthinkable”, S. Bains said while emphasising  Punjab’s reliance on agriculture and the crucial role of water in sustaining crops amid depleting groundwater levels. The Centre has consistently discriminated against Punjab, and now BJP-ruled states are following the suit.

S. Harjot Singh Bains pointed out the irony that when Punjab had surplus water during the monsoon season, Haryana and Rajasthan refused to take it. Now, with paddy sowing season approaching, Punjab can’t afford to spare water for other states. He highlighted the state’s efforts to ensure water supply for irrigation, including the Sarthar scheme for villages in Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency and pipeline projects for semi-mountainous areas, benefiting around 10,000 villages.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Singh Rouri asserted that Punjabis, having made significant sacrifices for the country, will now stand firm in fighting for their rights. He emphasised that not a single drop of Punjab’s water will be allowed to be diverted outside the state.