Category: Punjab

  • ₹200 crore turnover evasion unearthed in Punjab’s hospitality sector, crackdown intensifies with data-driven probe: Harpal Singh Cheema

    ₹200 crore turnover evasion unearthed in Punjab’s hospitality sector, crackdown intensifies with data-driven probe: Harpal Singh Cheema

    Turnover evasion in hospitality sector may touch ₹500 crore as Bhagwant Mann Govt expands investigation: Harpal Singh Cheema

    Punjab E News (30 March 2026): Punjab Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday revealed a massive ₹200 crore turnover evasion racket in Punjab’s hospitality sector, exposing deep-rooted and systemic under-reporting across dhabas, eateries, restaurants, and fast-food outlets, as the Bhagwant Mann Government launched an aggressive, technology-driven crackdown to protect public revenue. With 882 establishments already under the scanner and ₹2.02 crore recovered so far, Harpal Singh Cheema made it clear that the investigation is rapidly expanding and the total evasion could surge to nearly ₹500 crore as more data is analysed.

    Flagging how major urban centres like Mohali, Jalandhar, and Ludhiana have emerged as key hubs of suppression, he underscored that sectors driven by high cash and hybrid payments are at the centre of the fraud. Backed by advanced data analytics, inputs from TIU and SIPU, and the success of the ‘Bill Liyao, Inam Pao’ scheme, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government has intensified enforcement, with Harpal Singh Cheema issuing a firm warning that strict action will follow against every violator while ensuring full use of technology to safeguard the State’s revenue.

    Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “Through a comprehensive, state-wide, data-driven enforcement exercise covering hotels, dhabas, eateries, bakeries, sweet shops, restaurants, catering services, and similar establishments, we have identified a total of 882 establishments pertaining to FY 2025–26.”

    The Finance Minister further added, “With further analysis and the inclusion of data pertaining to the financial years 2023–24 and 2024–25, the total magnitude of evasion is likely to reach approximately ₹500 crore.”

    Detailing the findings of the ongoing verification, Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “In the preliminary inquiry conducted till date, 239 cases have been examined, resulting in the detection of turnover suppression of approximately ₹50 crore.” He added, “This evasion involves a tax of ₹2.54 crore at a 5% rate, and our Department has so far ensured the recovery of ₹2.02 crore, with further recovery proceedings still ongoing.”

    Underlining the scale of discrepancies across taxpayers, Minster Harpal Singh Cheema said, “We discovered turnover suppression above ₹2 crore in 3 taxpayers, above ₹1 crore in 6 taxpayers, above ₹50 lakh in 18 taxpayers, above ₹25 lakh in 26 taxpayers, and above ₹5 lakh in 91 taxpayers.”

    Highlighting sector-specific trends, he noted, “Our further analysis indicates systemic patterns of under-reporting in high-cash and hybrid-payment segments.” He added, “Dhabas account for approximately ₹10 crore of the suppression, followed by small eateries, coffee, and chai bars at around ₹8 crore, and pizza and fast-food outlets exceeding ₹6 crore.”

    Providing a district-wise breakdown, the Minister said, “Mohali has reported the highest turnover suppression of ₹8.16 crore, followed by Jalandhar with ₹6.72 crore and Ludhiana with ₹5.48 crore, making them the major contributors to the detected evasion.” He added that Patiala and Amritsar have shown comparatively lower discrepancies, with ₹3.83 crore and ₹0.99 crore respectively.

    Explaining the methodology behind the crackdown, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “During detailed scrutiny of business data by the State Investigation and Preventive Unit, it was observed that a significant number of such establishments were using online billing applications.” He added, “I give full credit to the Tax Intelligence Unit, the State Investigation and Preventive Unit (SIPU), alongside the overwhelming success of our ‘Bill Liyao, Inam Pao’ scheme, for making this large-scale detection possible.”

    He further elaborated, “Based on risk parameters, data analytics, and comparative analysis with GST returns, we identified instances of possible suppression of turnover. We accordingly directed the concerned online platforms to furnish detailed transactional data, which field formations are now using for on-ground verification and reconciliation with statutory returns.”

    Emphasising balanced enforcement, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, “It is pertinent to note that no discrepancy has been observed in 52 establishments, reflecting balanced enforcement and verification based on data-driven selection.”

    Outlining the next steps, he said, “The remaining cases are under active verification and detailed scrutiny, and it is expected that the entire exercise of verification and recovery shall be completed within one month.” He added, “To further strengthen the investigation, the Department is in the process of obtaining UPI transaction data and other digital payment trails, which will enable a deeper reconciliation of actual receipts with reported turnover, thereby enhancing detection accuracy.”

    Issuing a clear warning to violators, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “The Bhagwant Mann Government is committed to leveraging technology, data analytics, and coordinated field enforcement to ensure tax compliance and safeguard State revenue.” He emphasised, “Strict action shall be taken in all cases of tax evasion, while compliant taxpayers shall continue to be facilitated.”

  • Major Jolt to Congress, Akali Dal and BJP as Dozens of Grassroots Leaders Join AAP

    Major Jolt to Congress, Akali Dal and BJP as Dozens of Grassroots Leaders Join AAP

    AAP Gains Further Strength as Around Three Dozen Sarpanches, Panches and Senior Leaders Join Party

    Punjab E News (30 March 2026): In a significant political development in Punjab, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) received a major boost as a large number of leaders from the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) joined the party, dealing a major setback to their respective organisations.

    The induction was facilitated by Rajbir Singh Ghumman, OSD to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, who formally welcomed all the leaders into the party fold in the presence of Gagandeep Singh Ahuja, Chairman of the Punjab Khadi Welfare Board, who attended as a special guest.

    Prominent among those who joined AAP include Sahib Singh Chhajjalwadi, Vice Chairman (SC Wing Baba Bakala), Punjab Congress; Sarabjit Kaur Dhaliwal, Congress District President, Women Wing Amritsar (Rural); along with several other senior Congress functionaries, grassroots representatives, and local leaders. The list of joining leaders includes former Sarpanches, Panches, block-level office bearers, and senior leaders such as Satjit Singh (District General Secretary, Congress Amritsar Rural), Kuldeep Kaur (District General Secretary, Congress), Jaskaran Singh (General Secretary, Congress), Dr Charanjit Singh (Former Civil Surgeon, Batala), Narendra Sharma (Block Congress President, Attari), Joginder Singh (Former Panch and BJP Mandal President), Gurpreet Singh (Member, Block Samiti), and several serving and former Sarpanches including Karaj Singh (Jheeta Kalan), Captain (Bohar village), Gurjoban Singh (Jahangir), Keval Singh (Fatehgarh Shukarchak), and Tarsem Singh (Jethuwal).

    In addition, a large number of Panches and grassroots representatives such as Santokh Singh, Dilbagh Singh (Nambardar), Darshan Singh (Mehniya), Sethu (Malewal), Navjot Singh, Gurpreet Singh (Sohiyan), Hardev Singh (Former Block Samiti Member), Surjit Singh, Baljinder Singh, and several others from villages including Mehniya Khuaran and surrounding areas also joined AAP. Leaders from other parties including Daljit Singh (BC President, Attari), Balhar Singh (Block President, Mirankot), Sahib Singh (Vice Chairman, SC Wing, Baba Bakala), and Gurvinder Singh (Executive President, Youth Akali Dal, Amritsar) also extended their support to AAP.

    Speaking on the occasion, Rajbir Singh Ghumman said, “The continuous joining of leaders from various parties reflects the growing faith of people in the people-centric and development-oriented policies of the Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.”

    The newly inducted leaders expressed confidence in the leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and said, “We are deeply impressed by the pro-people initiatives and transparent governance of the AAP Government. AAP is the only party genuinely working for the welfare of all sections of society, which motivated us to take this important political decision.”

    They further stated, “We will strengthen the party at the grassroots level and work tirelessly to take the policies and achievements of the AAP Government to every household.”

  • From roads to irrigation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann launches 87 crore development works in Patiala’s Sanaur

    From roads to irrigation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann launches 87 crore development works in Patiala’s Sanaur

    Sanaur Link, Patiala–Pehowa Road & other roads to be renovated: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

    Patiala News (30 March 2026): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday accelerated Punjab’s development push on the ground by launching a series of major infrastructure and irrigation projects in Patiala’s Sanaur constituency, announcing ₹87 crore worth of road renovation works alongside ₹27 crore canal lining projects that will bring irrigation water to 40,066 acres across 83 villages.

    Driving home a decisive shift from past governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted that while previous governments allowed roads to crumble within days due to corruption, the Punjab Government has enforced strict accountability with a mandatory five-year maintenance clause for contractors. At the same time, he underlined that the AAP government has not only expanded irrigation coverage significantly from 21,050 acres earlier but has also secured Punjab’s rightful 25 percent share of Bhakra canal water from Haryana through a legal battle, ensuring that farmers receive their due.

    Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Baffled by the unprecedented development of Punjab, the traditional parties have lost their mental balance. Today, the pace of Punjab’s development is back on track and gaining momentum with every passing day. The opposition parties are not able to digest it due to which they are issuing baseless and irrational statements daily. This reflects the frustration amongst the opposition parties who are envious of the development of the state and prosperity of its people.”

    Highlighting infrastructure development in Sanaur constituency, the Chief Minister said, “Today in Sanaur constituency, several new link roads will be built, and some existing ones will get a new look at a cost of ₹49.60 crore. People will soon see changes in the roads leading to their villages, and the main Patiala-Pehowa road will be given a facelift and it will soon become a four-lane highway to ease Delhi-bound traffic.”

    Emphasising accountability, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These will not be substandard roads like before as the contractors have five year maintenance duty, and any damage means payment withheld, blacklisting, no future contracts and others.”

    Underlining the scale of the road infrastructure push, he said, “It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that the Punjab Government has embarked on the biggest road construction work taken up in the history of the state, targeting to construct 44,920 km of roads with a total cost of ₹16,209 crore.”

    He added, “These roads will all be with the five years maintenance clause ensuring highest quality standards along with the world class road safety features. This move is aimed to provide better mobility and boost rural infrastructure in the state thereby immensely benefitting the common people.”

    On water conservation and irrigation, the Chief Minister said, “Those who claimed to be the protectors of water have never paid heed towards preserving the water whereas the Punjab Government is taking on account every single drop of water.”

    He added, “As many as 6900 km long, 18349 water courses have been revived in the state to provide water at tail ends thereby immensely benefitting the farmers. Our Government has spent ₹6500 crore for rejuvenating the canal system to ensure water reaches at tail ends, and for the first time 1444 villages of the state have got canal water.”

    Listing achievements in the education sector, he said, “Punjab secured the top position in the National Achievement Survey 2024, and it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction for all Punjabis that the state surpassed even Kerala in this survey.”

    He added, “In the last few years 740 students have cleared JEE and 1284 have cleared NEET, and 118 Schools of Eminence are being established, of which 60 have already been opened.”

    CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “These schools are helping talented students fulfill their dreams and the objective is to provide education based on students’ abilities and interests so they can achieve great success.” He added, “For the first time 24 lakh parents have participated in the mega PTMs.”

    Expanding on education reforms, the Chief Minister said, “All the streams, including Medical and Non-Medical, are being offered to the students in the government schools.” He added, “Coaching for prestigious exams like Armed Forces Preparatory, NEET, JEE, and CLAT is also provided.”

    CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “As education is the panacea of all the ills confronted by the society, the Punjab Government has prioritized education and has taken path breaking initiatives in the education sector to transform the lives of people.”

    Stressing the role of education in social transformation, he said, “No freebie or concession cards can eliminate poverty or other social maladies in the state but education is the key that can pull people out of this vicious circle by raising their standard of living.”

    He added, “Education is the light that illuminates the world by dispelling the darkness, due to which the Punjab Government is laying special thrust on it.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna has been launched under which health cards are being issued to all 65 lakh families in Punjab.”

    On healthcare delivery, the Chief Minister said, “Every family is entitled to free treatment up to ₹10 lakh under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna (MMSY) and over 30 lakh beneficiaries have already received health cards. 1.65 lakh people have received free treatment under this scheme, and people should take maximum benefit of these cards.”

    CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “For the first time in the history of the state more than eight hours of uninterrupted power had been supplied to farm tube wells during paddy season.”

    Highlighting power reforms, he said, “Farmers are now receiving electricity during the daytime for irrigation for the first time, which has transformed their lives.” He added, “The Punjab Government is judiciously utilizing every single penny of the state exchequer for the well being of the people.”

    On Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP Government has launched this scheme to provide ₹1000 per month to all other women and ₹1500 per month to women from Scheduled Castes aged 18 years and above.”

    Reaffirming fiscal responsibility, the Chief Minister said, “The tax money of people belongs to the state and it is being spent on the welfare of people.” He added, “Taxpayers’ money is coming back to people through development, schools, hospitals and roads, and though the Punjab Government has fulfilled all its guarantees, efforts for progress of Punjab will further continue.”

    CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “From this stage, we talk about education, health, power and agriculture, whereas other parties focus only on grabbing power.”

    Taking on opposition parties, he said, “These opportunist leaders are baffled as people are not giving them any response and their agenda is confined to the welfare of their families rather than that of people.” He added, “They say that students should be taught in schools whereas the Akalis and Congress want to divide people.”

    Detailing the Sadak Surakhiya Force, the Chief Minister said, “The AAP Government has launched the first of its kind initiative in the country, a dedicated Sadak Surakhiya Force (SSF) to ensure enhanced security and to save precious lives on the State and National Highways. A specially trained, freshly recruited 1597 personnel are acting as the backbone of this force, which has been provided with 144 fully equipped vehicles.”

    He added, “Since its launch in February last year, this force has reduced road accident fatalities by 48 percent, besides ensuring safe return of valuables and money belonging to accident victims.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The force has been deployed along 4200 kilometers of highways prone to accidents and also acts as a strong deterrent against traffic violations.”

    He further said, “None of the previous governments paid attention to such serious issues, due to which Punjab earlier figured among the top three states in road accident casualties.” He added, “This path breaking decision has been hailed by the Government of India and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has lauded it.”

    Highlighting governance reforms, the Chief Minister said, “The ‘Easy Registry’ project has been successfully implemented across Punjab, ensuring transparent and hassle-free property registration. This initiative has made the registration process easier and corruption free.”

    He added, “The Punjab Government has closed 19 toll plazas, saving ₹64 lakh daily from the common man’s pocket.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Punjab Government has fulfilled every promise made to the people and will continue to do so with full commitment.”

    On Yudh Nashean Virud, he said, “The sole agenda of the AAP Government is to ensure the progress of Punjab and the prosperity of its people. Under the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign, the supply line of drugs has been snapped and smugglers have been put behind bars.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This campaign has become a mass movement with public support and the Punjab Government has not allowed smugglers to flourish at the cost of innocent lives.”

    He further said, “For the first time, properties of drug smugglers acquired illegally have been destroyed and confiscated to act as a deterrent.” He added, “The aim is to put tiffin in the hands of youth through employment so they stay away from drugs.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Punjab Government is ensuring that maximum youth get jobs so that they do not fall prey to social evils.”

    Highlighting sports and cultural initiatives, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab will host the Asia Cup Hockey after a long gap, with matches in Jalandhar and Mohali.” He added, “The 650th Parkash Purab of Guru Ravidass ji will be celebrated in a grand manner with a series of events.”

    Targeting traditional political parties, he said, “They are envious because they cannot accept that the son of a common man is governing Punjab effectively.” He added, “People have lost faith in them due to their anti-people and anti-Punjab stance.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Previous rulers were more concerned about their families rather than Punjab and Punjabis, which is why people have rejected them.”

    On healthcare expansion, the Chief Minister said, “The Punjab Government has opened 990 Aam Aadmi Clinics, including 576 in rural areas and 414 in urban areas.” He added, “These clinics provide 107 medicines and 47 diagnostic tests free of cost, and another 400 clinics will be opened soon.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In the last 75 years, no previous government provided such facilities, but the Punjab Government has ensured healthcare for all.”

    On the occasion, Cabinet Ministers Barinder Goyal and Dr. Balbir Singh, AAP General Secretary and Media Incharge Baltej Pannu, Sanaur constituency in-charge and chief organizer of today’s event Ranjodh Singh Hadana, MLAs Ajitpal Singh Kohli, Neena Mittal, Chetan Singh Jauramajra, Gurdev Singh Dev Mann, Gurlal Ghanaur and Kulwant Singh Bazgir, Punjab Mandi Board Chairman Harchand Singh Barsat, Mayor Kundan Gogia, AAP State Secretary and Deputy Mayor Jagdeep Singh Jagga, District Planning Committee Chairman Tejinder Mehta, Punjab Agro Chairman Baljinder Singh Dhillon, Conware Vice Chairman Inderjit Singh Sandhu, Municipal Council Sanaur Vice President Pardeep Josan, Chairman Jasvir Singh Kudni, Water Resources Department Principal Secretary Krishan Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia, SSP Varun Sharma, ADC Damanjit Singh Mann, SDM Harjot Kaur Mavi were also present.

  • Asian Hockey Championship from Oct 27 in Punjab: Nitin Kohli

    Asian Hockey Championship from Oct 27 in Punjab: Nitin Kohli

    Tournament till Nov 5; opening & closing in Mohali, remaining matches in Jalandhar

    Jalandhar News: Punjab is set to host the Asian Hockey Championship for the first time, with the tournament scheduled to begin on October 27 and conclude on November 5, marking a historic moment for the state.
    Sharing details, Hockey Punjab President and Hockey India Vice President Nitin Kohli said that an inspection team from Mohali has reached Jalandhar to review the preparations. The team will submit its report to Hockey India, which will then forward it to the Asian Hockey Federation before the final schedule is officially announced.
    Kohli informed that the opening and closing matches will be held in Mohali, while all other matches will take place at Surjit Hockey Stadium (Burlton Park) in Jalandhar.
    He added that top teams including India, Pakistan, China, Korea, Japan, and Malaysia are expected to participate, with the possibility of more teams joining the tournament.
    During the inspection, Hockey India Director (Operations) Vikram Singh, Olympian hockey player and Assistant Director, Punjab Sports Department Gurjant Singh, and Senior Deputy Mayor of Jalandhar Balbir Singh Bittu, Harmik Singh Pawar, Sanjeev Kumar along with other officials, visited the Surjit Hockey Stadium to review infrastructure and preparedness.
    Kohli stated that the stadium will undergo a complete facelift before the event, and a separate practice ground is also being prepared. The inspection report is expected within the next 2–3 days.
    He further said that the Burlton Park project is in its final stage, and efforts are being made to inaugurate the ₹70–80 crore project alongside the tournament.
    In conclusion, Nitin Kohli, in his capacity as AAP Central constituency in-charge, said that the Punjab government is fully committed to making the event a success and giving the state a strong presence on the international sporting map.

  • Under AAP Govt, Punjab Schools become No. 1 in education, tops National Achievement Survey & even surpasses Kerala: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

    Under AAP Govt, Punjab Schools become No. 1 in education, tops National Achievement Survey & even surpasses Kerala: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

    Education budget raised to ₹19,279 crore in 4 years, 60 Schools of Eminence opened, 740 clear JEE and 1,284 crack NEET: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

    Punjab E News (30th March 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday presented a detailed four-year report card of the Punjab Government’s “Shiksha Kranti” under the “Shandaar Char Saal Bhagwant Mann de naal” series, laying out how sustained reforms have transformed government schools into competitive, outcome-driven institutions delivering national-leading results. Positioning ‘Shikhya Kranti’ as the backbone of Punjab’s growth story, the Chief Minister highlighted top rankings in national assessments, record academic outcomes, zero paper leaks, and unprecedented investment in infrastructure and teacher training.

    Cm bhagwant mann

    The Chief Minister underscored that this transformation has been backed by a sharp rise in financial commitment, with the education budget increasing from ₹12,657 crore in 2021–22 to ₹19,279 crore in 2026–27, reflecting the AAP government’s sustained prioritisation of the sector. The Chief Minister noted that this education report card comes as part of a broader accountability exercise, following similar four-year performance presentations in key sectors such as irrigation, health, sports, and law and order, reflecting the government’s focus on measurable delivery across governance.

    Addressing a press conference, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann outlined a wide-ranging overhaul of school and higher education, highlighting structural reforms, record investments, and measurable outcomes achieved over the past four years. “Countries that prioritised education have progressed in every field. In our country, education was divided between private and government schools, creating a deep divide. Previous regimes reduced schools to centres for mid day meals, but our government has transformed the entire system,” he stated.

    The Chief Minister added, “Government schools have now been developed at par with private schools, giving parents a genuine choice. From April 1, parents will be informed about their child’s absence from school and even about teachers’ leave, ensuring accountability at every level. Unlike several other states, especially Gujarat, not a single paper leak has occurred in Punjab in the last four years, which is a matter of immense pride.”

    Emphasising the centrality of education in governance, the Chief Minister noted, “Education contributes the most to the progress and prosperity of any state or country. Over the past four years, we have given it the highest priority. Earlier, under the name of ‘Smart Schools’, people and innocent children were misled. Schools were merely painted and beautified without proper facilities or teachers. Today, government schools in Punjab stand at par with private institutions, and our education model is being discussed across the country.”

    Highlighting financial commitment, he said, “A budget of ₹19,279 crore has been allocated for the financial year 2026–27, which is 7% higher than last year. We are launching the second phase of the Education Revolution with ₹3,500 crore, with the World Bank as our partner, making it the largest education reform program.”

    Listing key achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab secured the top position in the National Achievement Survey 2024, surpassing even Kerala, while Gujarat ranked 16th and Haryana around 7th or 8th. This achievement belongs to our government school teachers and students.”

    He added, “In recent years, 740 students have cleared JEE and 1,284 have cleared NEET. Government school students scored 18% higher than the national average in the survey.”

    Detailing institutional expansion, the Chief Minister noted, “118 Schools of Eminence are being established, of which 60 are already operational. These schools are helping talented students fulfil their dreams by offering education aligned with their abilities and interests. For the first time, 24 lakh parents have participated in mega PTMs.”

    He further said, “Free uniforms have been provided to 30,000 students in these schools, and all streams, including Medical and Non-Medical, are available. Coaching for exams like Armed Forces Preparatory, NEET, JEE, and CLAT is also being provided.”

    Focusing on inclusivity, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Free bus services have been started for girls in Schools of Eminence and government schools so that no girl is deprived of education. Around 15,500 students are benefiting.”

    He added, “Since April 2022, 14,525 teachers have been recruited and services of 12,316 education department employees have been regularised. We are also ensuring world-class training for principals and teachers.”

    Elaborating on capacity building, he stated, “Eight batches have been sent to Singapore for training, and 264 education officers, principals, and teachers have benefited. Three batches of 216 primary teachers were trained in Turku, Finland. Five batches were sent to IIM Ahmedabad, where 249 headmasters underwent leadership training. A science teacher, Gagandeep Kaur from Government Senior Secondary School, Sainsra Kalan in Amritsar, participated in a two-month program at California State University, USA, reflecting the dedication and capability of our teachers.”

    On infrastructure and safety, the Chief Minister said, “We are ensuring proper maintenance and safety in government schools. A total of 1,932 campus managers, 1,323 security guards, 7,876 sanitation workers, and 1,792 watchmen have been recruited. High-speed fiber Wi-Fi has been provided in all government schools with a budget of ₹20 crore, making Punjab the only state to achieve this.”

    He added, “Classrooms, science labs, computer labs, multipurpose rooms, kitchens, medical rooms, head rooms, playgrounds, and separate toilets for boys and girls have been constructed. Students now receive books on time, and free uniforms are being provided. Additionally, 25 government schools have been named after martyrs, freedom fighters, and eminent personalities.”

    Highlighting innovation, he said, “The Business Blaster scheme has been launched to promote entrepreneurial thinking among students, who have collectively generated ₹70 crore through their ideas. Punjab is the first state to introduce Entrepreneurship as a subject in Class 11. Our aim is to create job creators, not job seekers.”

    On mentorship and cultural education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “The School Mentorship Program has been introduced for the first time, where IAS, IPS, and senior officers guide students. To commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a 15-day program was organised to educate students about his life and sacrifice.”

    Turning to higher education reforms, he stated, “Punjab has introduced the country’s first Digital Open University Policy-2026. A world-class university will be established at Sri Anandpur Sahib in the name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, has implemented the Punjabi-First Policy to improve access for rural students, and an online admission portal has been launched for government degree colleges to ensure transparency. Ten new degree colleges are planned, and construction of a college at Bikraur in Ajnala is underway.”

    Reinforcing linguistic and cultural initiatives, he added, “Under the Punjab Language Act, Punjabi has been made 100% mandatory for official work. Digitisation of Punjabi literature is underway, with 18,550 books digitised so far. Additionally, 592 rare manuscripts have been preserved and digitised, and over 100 books are now available online.”

    He further said, “The ‘Shabdmala E-Dictionary’ has been launched as an Android app with multiple Punjabi lexicons. Portraits of 60 eminent Punjabi literary personalities have been displayed at Punjab Bhawan in New Delhi, and awards have been distributed for the best books in Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu.”

    Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains and others were also present on the occasion.

  • Man shot dead in broad daylight in Amritsar, attackers flee with bike and phone

    Man shot dead in broad daylight in Amritsar, attackers flee with bike and phone

    Chandigarh: A 35-year-old man was shot dead in broad daylight in Amritsar on Monday morning while he was on his way to work, police said.

    The incident occurred around 10 am near Rajatal village in the Attari area. The deceased has been identified as Sohna Singh, a resident of the same village.

    According to initial reports, unidentified assailants opened fire at him, killing him on the spot. The attackers then fled with his motorcycle and mobile phone.

    Police teams reached the scene soon after receiving information and cordoned off the area. An investigation has been initiated, and the motive behind the killing is yet to be established.

    Officials said efforts are underway to identify and arrest the accused at the earliest.

  • Bathinda lawyer dies by suicide, names Chandigarh builder in video over ₹5 crore dispute

    Bathinda lawyer dies by suicide, names Chandigarh builder in video over ₹5 crore dispute

    Chandigarh: A lawyer from Bathinda, Davinderpal Singh Natt, allegedly died by suicide at his residence in Green Enclave, leaving behind a video in which he blamed a Chandigarh-based builder and his family for his death.

    Natt, the only son of late Congress leader Sukhraj Singh Natt, accused coloniser Binderpal Mittal and his sons Bharat Mittal and Prateek Mittal of withholding ₹5 crore belonging to him. He also alleged that an additional ₹6-7 crore invested by his friends through him had not been returned, leading to severe mental distress.

    In the video recorded before his death, Natt appealed to his father’s well-wishers and the legal fraternity to ensure justice for his family.

    Sukhraj Singh Natt had contested Assembly elections three times and had also served as chairman of a state body. Following his demise, the family is now survived by Natt’s mother and wife.

    The incident has triggered shock in the area, and police have initiated action based on the contents of the viral video. Investigations are underway against the accused named by the deceased.

  • Dream big, work hard: CM Mann urges youth, highlights success of Business Blaster programme

    Dream big, work hard: CM Mann urges youth, highlights success of Business Blaster programme

    Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has urged young people to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals, sharing his personal journey as an example of determination and ambition.

    Recalling his early days, Mann said he would often stand outside the Chief Minister’s residence, interacting with security personnel and telling them to keep the house clean as he would one day occupy the post. “Eventually, that dream came true,” he said.

    He also spoke about being inspired as a student by a speech of IPS officer M.F. Farooqui, who had shared his journey from riding a bicycle to becoming a senior officer. Mann said the story left a lasting impression on him.

    The Chief Minister said he regularly shares such experiences with students of Classes 11 and 12, as well as youth in colleges, universities and ITIs participating in the government’s Business Blaster programme.

    Under the initiative, students are provided seed money of ₹2,000 to develop innovative ideas, design products and start their own ventures. Mann said the programme has been running successfully and is encouraging entrepreneurship among youth.

    Education Minister Harjot Bains, who was also present, said hundreds of students have developed product models that are now in demand by industries. He added that participants have collectively generated around ₹70 crore through their innovations.

    Bains highlighted that students have created prototypes such as drones, anti-drone systems and e-bikes, while a student from Moga developed a stubble management solution. He said the programme is now mandatory for students of Class 11 and above to promote entrepreneurial skills and shift them from job seekers to job creators.

  • Faridkot Among Punjab’s Top Districts in Anti-Drug Crackdown; Crime Falls 37%, Snatching Recovery Rate at 97%

    Faridkot Among Punjab’s Top Districts in Anti-Drug Crackdown; Crime Falls 37%, Snatching Recovery Rate at 97%

    Grassroots intelligence & public participation strengthen crackdown against drug abuse in Faridkot

    Faridkot News (29 March, 2026): Faridkot has emerged as a leading example of the Bhagwant Mann Government’s intensified campaign against drug abuse, with the district recording a sharp 37% decline in overall crime and a 97% recovery rate in snatching cases, reflecting the impact of sustained action under the ongoing ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ (war against drugs) and ‘Operation Prahar’.

    The transformation in Faridkot is being driven by a combination of strict enforcement, technology-backed surveillance and deep community engagement, which together have broken the local drug networks and strengthened law and order on the ground. The Bhagwant Mann Government’s focused push to dismantle drug ecosystems is now yielding visible results at the district level.

    Police officials highlighted that regular coordination meetings with Village Defence Committees (VDC), NGOs and social organisations have significantly strengthened grassroots intelligence. This has led to growing public participation, with residents actively sharing information about drug peddlers and anti-social elements, enabling quicker and more targeted police action.

    Senior Superintendent of Police Pragya Jain, IPS, who is closely supervising the campaign, underlined the importance of direct citizen engagement, stating, “People have developed strong trust in the police because informers’ identities are kept completely confidential and action is taken promptly. Citizens across age groups are actively supporting the drive.” She noted that this trust has become a critical force multiplier in the district’s crackdown on drugs and crime.

    Technology has played a crucial role in this transformation, with CCTV cameras installed at key locations across Faridkot, significantly enhancing surveillance and response capabilities. In Dhilwan Kalan village, a comprehensive CCTV network now covers link roads and nearby highways, with real-time access available to both village authorities and the police, ensuring constant monitoring of suspicious activity.

    Local residents affirmed the impact of these measures on ground. Village sarpanch Rajwinder singh & Sukhjeet Singh Dhilwan
    Coordinator Yudh Nashya vrdhu central Malwa Zone Punjab
    said that CCTV monitoring has helped detect suspicious movement linked to drug trafficking, allowing timely police intervention and arrests before crimes could be committed.

    Civil society representatives also acknowledged the shift, pointing to a visible rise in public confidence and a strong deterrent effect on offenders. Chairman of Sahara Service Society Praveen Kala stated that strict enforcement has dismantled a significant portion of the drug trafficking network in the district, while public cooperation with the police has increased substantially.

    Officials further added that alongside enforcement, sustained outreach initiatives are being undertaken to build long-term resistance against drug abuse. These include awareness campaigns, coordination with local administration, and community-driven efforts such as environmental initiatives and sapling distribution.

    With intensified policing, technology integration and strong citizen participation under the Bhagwant Mann Government’s ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign, Faridkot is setting a clear benchmark for district-level action, demonstrating how coordinated efforts can decisively weaken drug networks and restore public confidence in law enforcement.

  • Opposition spreading misinformation on ₹10 lakh health scheme to mislead people of Punjab: Dr. Balbir Singh

    Opposition spreading misinformation on ₹10 lakh health scheme to mislead people of Punjab: Dr. Balbir Singh

    Non-empanelled hospital cases being falsely projected as scheme failures, claims are misleading: Dr. Balbir Singh

    Punjab E News (29 March 2026): The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab on Sunday said the Opposition is running a deliberate campaign to mislead people on the ₹10 lakh health insurance scheme, using isolated incidents from non-empanelled hospitals to falsely project failure while ignoring the scheme’s proven impact. Citing that over 1.72 lakh patients have already received treatment worth ₹292 crore, the party asserted that the attempt to distort facts reflects either a lack of basic understanding of how such schemes function or a calculated effort to create confusion among beneficiaries and weaken a major public welfare initiative.

    Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh addressed the issue directly, responding to claims made by Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa, who had shared a video of a patient from Amritsar. “The hospital shown in the video, Shoor Hospital, is not empanelled under the Chief Minister’s health scheme. More than 600 private hospitals are empanelled under the scheme, and treatment benefits are available only in these registered institutions. It is highly irresponsible for a Leader of the Opposition to share such content without verifying facts. This not only misleads the public but also creates unnecessary panic among beneficiaries,” Dr. Balbir Singh stated.

    He further clarified the framework of such schemes, noting that empanelment remains voluntary. “Hospital empanelment under schemes like Ayushman Bharat Yojana is voluntary, and no hospital can be forced to join. Therefore, presenting isolated incidents from non-empanelled hospitals as failures of the scheme is factually incorrect and misleading,” Dr. Balbir Singh added.

    Highlighting the scale and impact of the initiative, the Health Minister underlined the tangible benefits already delivered to the people of Punjab. “Over 1.72 lakh patients have already received treatment worth ₹292 crore, including critical procedures such as heart surgeries, brain operations, joint replacements, and emergency accident care. These figures clearly show the effectiveness and reach of the scheme. Attempts to malign it are condemnable,” Dr. Balbir Singh said.

    Calling out what he described as a deliberate attempt to spread confusion, the Health Minister demanded accountability. “Partap Singh Bajwa must issue a public apology to the people of Punjab for spreading misinformation and attempting to create confusion around a pro-people initiative,” Dr. Balbir Singh asserted.

    AAP Punjab Chief Spokesperson and MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal also responded, questioning opposition leaders’ understanding of governance, including Sukhbir Singh Badal, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and Raja Warring. “Leaders like Bajwa and Badal, despite holding high positions for years, have failed to understand even the basic functioning of government schemes. It is shocking that those who have been Deputy Chief Minister, Union Minister, MPs, and senior leaders still do not know that only empanelled hospitals provide treatment under such schemes. Their statements expose either their ignorance or their intent to mislead,” Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal stated.

    He emphasised that only approved hospitals are authorised under the scheme and warned against the spread of misinformation. “Punjab has thousands of hospitals, but only those included in the government’s approved panel are authorized under the scheme. Instead of guiding people correctly, these leaders are confusing them and spreading false narratives. This is not just irresponsible but an attempt to undermine a scheme that is benefiting lakhs of poor families,” Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal added.

    Questioning the intent behind such remarks, the AAP Punjab Chief Spokesperson said opposition leaders were prioritising political relevance over public interest. “Opposition leaders are making baseless statements merely to please their political bosses and remain relevant. Before commenting, they should at least check official government websites or verify facts. Their reckless statements have become a source of embarrassment,” Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal remarked.

    He also appealed to citizens to rely only on verified information. “People of Punjab should not be misled by such propaganda and must rely only on verified information. The ₹10 lakh health insurance scheme is functioning effectively and continues to provide major relief to the common people,” Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal reiterated.