Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann: Defending Punjab’s Peace, Progress, and Prosperity on Republic Day
- HEADLINESPUNJAB
- January 26, 2025
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The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Singh Mann, delivered a resolute and inspiring address on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day, emphasizing his commitment to safeguarding Punjab’s harmony, progress, and sovereignty. During a ceremonial event at Patiala’s Polo Ground, Mann unfurled the national tricolor and spoke passionately about Punjab’s legacy, resilience, and aspirations, calling upon the people to uphold the values of communal harmony and peace.
Mann underscored Punjab’s historical role as the land of gurus, saints, and martyrs, describing its enduring spirit of brotherhood and harmony. He reaffirmed his government’s unwavering focus on maintaining peace, warning that any forces attempting to disrupt Punjab’s stability would be decisively countered. Stressing the strength of social unity in the state, he vowed that divisive attempts to sow hatred would never succeed.
Reflecting on the significance of Republic Day, Mann highlighted January 26, 1950, as the day India’s Constitution came into force, establishing the nation as a sovereign, socialist, democratic, and secular republic. He lauded the framers of the Constitution, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and noted the enduring strength of democratic values in India. He celebrated Punjab’s role in defending the country’s sovereignty during pivotal wars and its enduring contributions to national development.
Mann also honored Punjab’s unparalleled contributions to India’s freedom struggle, noting that despite comprising only 2% of India’s population, Punjabis accounted for 80% of the freedom fighters who faced execution or exile. He highlighted historic movements such as Kuka, Ghadar, and Pagri Sambhal and paid tribute to iconic martyrs like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, and Udham Singh.
Turning to modern challenges, Mann expressed frustration with the central government’s “step-motherly” treatment of Punjab. He lamented the neglect faced by the state’s farmers, who, despite making India self-reliant in food production, were forced to agitate for their rights. Mann urged the central government to address the grievances of Punjab’s farmers, including their demand for fair compensation and support. He cited the unresolved issue of the Rural Development Fund (RDF) worth ₹5500 crore as an example of the Centre’s indifference.
Outlining his government’s achievements, Mann highlighted initiatives aimed at improving Punjab’s socio-economic landscape. Punjab is now offering the highest sugarcane prices globally and has launched innovative projects like the Sadak Surakhiya Force to enhance road safety and reduce traffic fatalities. The force has already made significant progress by saving lives and returning valuables to accident victims.
Mann celebrated the transformative impact of 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics across Punjab, which have provided healthcare services to over 2.70 crore people. Additionally, he noted that 90% of households now benefit from free electricity, reducing financial burdens and supporting the state’s farmers with uninterrupted power supply.
In education, Mann’s administration is establishing Schools of Eminence to enhance learning environments with state-of-the-art facilities and smart classrooms. Enrolment in government schools has increased by 17%, and teachers are being sent abroad for specialized training to prepare students for global competition. Irrigation systems have also seen a significant boost, with 75% of canal water now reaching farmers, reducing reliance on groundwater.
Mann’s government has introduced the Doorstep Delivery of Services scheme, allowing citizens to access 43 essential services without visiting government offices. This initiative has enhanced efficiency and convenience for Punjab’s residents. The administration has also attracted over ₹85,000 crore in investment, creating jobs for 3.5 lakh people and fostering industrial growth.
The Chief Minister’s commitment to transparency and fairness was evident in his emphasis on anti-corruption efforts. The state has established a helpline for reporting bribery, with officials taking strict action against those caught accepting illegal gratifications. Mann’s government has also regularized the services of 12,710 teachers, ensuring better pay and benefits.
Recognizing the sacrifices of Punjab’s armed forces and paramilitary personnel, Mann’s administration provides financial assistance of ₹1 crore to the families of martyrs. Additionally, initiatives like the FARISHTEY scheme reward individuals who assist accident victims, encouraging acts of public service without legal complications.
The Chief Minister highlighted improvements in public administration, including the recruitment of 10,000 new police officers and the closure of 18 toll plazas, saving citizens ₹63 lakh daily. Services for the Punjabi diaspora have been enhanced with the opening of the Punjab Help Centre at Delhi’s IGI Airport, offering round-the-clock assistance.
Mann concluded the celebrations by inspecting the parade and saluting participants, including contingents of the Punjab Police, NCC, and local school students who performed cultural programs. He honored freedom fighters and distributed tricycles to the differently-abled and sewing machines to needy women. The event’s tableaux showcased Punjab’s development and administration, offering a vibrant and inspiring close to the day’s festivities.
