Category: Punjab

Chandigarh News (March 24, 2026): The Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan, today presided over the official unveiling of the Punjab Legislative Assembly Diary for the year 2026 at the Vidhan Sabha Secretariat.

During the presentation, Speaker Sandhwan emphasized that the 2026 edition has been curated by the Secretariat to serve as a comprehensive institutional resource. He noted that the diary is designed to facilitate the systematic organization of legislative duties, providing members and officials with a streamlined tool for both daily parliamentary functions and long-term strategic planning.

“This publication transcends its role as a daily planner; it is an essential compendium of significant information that will prove indispensable for the efficient conduct of legislative affairs throughout the coming year,” the Speaker remarked.

The ceremony was attended by several distinguished officials and legislators, including S. Kulwant Singh Pandori, Honorable Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Ram Lok Khatana, Secretary, Punjab Vidhan Sabha,
Surinder Singh Moti, Secretary to the Speaker and Maninder Singh, OSD to the Speaker.

The 2026 Diary is expected to serve as a primary reference point for all administrative and legislative schedules within the Punjab Vidhan Sabha for the duration of the year.

Chandigarh News (March 24): Punjab Water Supply and Sanitation Minister S. Hardeep Singh Mundian today handed over appointment letters to 14 candidates under the compassionate appointment policy in the Water Supply and Sanitation Department at Punjab Bhawan here.

Congratulating the newly inducted candidates, the Cabinet Minister said that these appointments to Group ‘C’ and ‘D’ posts have been made in accordance with the state government’s policy aimed at supporting families in distress, providing timely employment to eligible dependents of deceased or incapacitated employees.

Out of the total 14 candidates, two have been appointed as Clerks, nine as Sewadars, one as Assistant Sewadar, one as Junior Technician and one as Helper (Technical).

S. Hardeep Singh Mundian said that Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Government is firmly committed to the welfare of every section of society and continues to work towards inclusive and balanced development.

Expressing satisfaction over the distribution of appointment letters, he said the candidates would play an important role in contributing to the state’s progress and urged them to discharge their duties with sincerity, dedication and integrity.

“While the government has fulfilled its responsibility by providing employment, it is now the duty of the appointees to uphold the trust reposed in them and work honestly,” he added.

Prominent amongst others who were present included Principal Secretary Mr. Nilkanth S. Avhad, HoD Ms. Syed Sehrish Asgar and others.

Major relief for 1 lakh residents of Malout due to efforts of Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur

Malout News (March 24): In a significant step towards strengthening the supply of clean drinking water in Malout city, Cabinet Minister and MLA from Malout, Dr. Baljit Kaur, has initiated a major water supply project.

Sharing details, Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, a water supply project worth ₹16.25 crore has been launched for Malout city, which will directly benefit nearly one lakh residents.

She stated that under this project, new pumping machinery will be installed at the Sirhind Feeder, and the old and leakage-prone 8,300-meter pipeline will be replaced with a new pipeline. Additionally, to ensure water reaches every corner of the city, around 20 kilometers of new pipeline will be laid.

The Cabinet Minister further informed that approximately 3,000 new household connections will be provided under this scheme, ensuring access to clean and adequate drinking water for residents.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the project is targeted to be completed within one year and will provide major relief to the people of Malout from water-related issues. She reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government remains committed to providing basic amenities to the people.

Punjab E News (23 March 2026): Punjab is witnessing a steady shift in its fight against drugs, as the Bhagwant Mann Government’s ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ (anti-drug campaign) expands its focus from enforcement to rehabilitation and reintegration. Alongside action against trafficking networks, structured support for treatment and employment is helping affected individuals return to stable, productive lives.

Jugraj Singh (name changed) represents this transition. Introduced to drugs during his college years through peer influence, what began as experimentation soon turned into dependence. Today, he is focused on completing his studies and rebuilding his future. “I feel I have become a better person,” he said.

With the support of rehabilitation services and counselling linked to Yudh Nashean Virudh, Jugraj has been able to regain control of his life and redirect his focus toward education and long-term stability.

For Anand Kumar (name changed), addiction had direct economic consequences. A small business he once managed began to collapse as substance use took over his routine and decision-making. “At one point I felt I had lost everything,” he recalled.

Following treatment at a rehabilitation centre and consistent family support, Anand began rebuilding his life. Employment opportunities extended to recovering individuals helped him regain financial stability and restore a sense of purpose.

Balwinder Singh’s (name changed) experience reflects the long-term personal cost of addiction. Once a trader with a stable family life, he describes how substance use gradually eroded both his health and social standing. “At first it feels enjoyable, but eventually it destroys everything,” he said.

After undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, Balwinder is now on the path to recovery, with improved health and renewed focus on rebuilding his future.

These accounts reflect a broader approach adopted by the AAP Government, where the fight against drugs is not limited to enforcement but includes sustained efforts to reintegrate individuals into society. Under Yudh Nashean Virudh, rehabilitation, counselling, and livelihood support are being aligned to ensure that recovery translates into long-term stability.

A consistent pattern is emerging across cases: employment is central to preventing relapse. A stable job not only provides financial independence but also restores discipline, dignity, and social acceptance. “Work keeps the mind focused. It helps you move forward,” Anand said.

As the Bhagwant Mann Government continues to expand Yudh Nashean Virudh, these recovery journeys highlight a deeper structural shift, where individuals are not only freed from addiction but are also supported in rebuilding their lives with stability and purpose.

If Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh had been India’s first Prime Minister, country’s situation would’ve been entirely different: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

Punjab E News (23 March 2026): Paying tributes to Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh on Shaheedi Diwas (Martyrdom Day), Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the day reminds the nation of the supreme sacrifice made by the great revolutionary at the altar of the motherland, and called upon people to uphold the values for which the martyrs laid down their lives. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to honouring the martyrs and building a Rangla Punjab rooted in their vision.

Invoking the legacy of the nation’s greatest revolutionaries, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the occasion is not merely to remember their sacrifice but to carry forward their fearless ideals and unwavering stand against injustice. He renewed his resolve to serve Punjab and the nation in line with their vision, while also questioning the continued denial of the Bharat Ratna (highest honours) to these freedom fighters and asserting that India’s trajectory would have been profoundly different had such courageous, youth-driven leadership shaped its early years.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “This day reminds us of the supreme sacrifice made by Shaheed Bhagat Singh for the motherland. The martyrdom of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru and Shaheed Sukhdev will forever inspire us to rise against injustice, tyranny and oppression. It is the moral duty of all of us to wage war against all forms of social maladies prevailing in society.”

Emphasising the transformative power of education, the Chief Minister stated that education remains the only lasting solution to eradicate poverty and social evils. “Education is the panacea of all the ills confronted by society, which is why the Punjab Government has prioritised it and taken path-breaking initiatives in the education sector. No freebie or concession can eliminate poverty or social evils, but education can pull people out of this vicious cycle by raising their standard of living. That is why our government is working tirelessly to improve the quality of education and empower the common man,” he added.

Highlighting the role of knowledge in societal transformation, he said, “Education is the light that dispels darkness. If we want real change, we must educate our children, empower them, uplift society and eliminate poverty. Real change will not come from temporary benefits but from true knowledge and awareness,” asserted CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to fulfilling the dreams of the martyrs, the Chief Minister said, “The Punjab Government is leaving no stone unturned to cherish the aspirations of our great martyrs. We are duty-bound to ensure the progress of Punjab and prosperity of its people. The day is not far when, due to our concerted efforts, Punjab will emerge as a front-runner state in the country,” he noted.

Reflecting on the significance of March 23, he added, “This day is not special merely because it is March 23; it is an ordinary day that becomes extraordinary because three brave sons of the nation sacrificed their youth and lives for the country. Their martyrdom infused new vigour into the freedom struggle, and within 15–16 years, the Indian flag was hoisted on the Red Fort due to their immense contribution,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

The Chief Minister emphasised the selfless nature of the martyrs’ sacrifice and the value of democratic rights. “Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh and his comrades did not sacrifice their lives for power or political gain. Their sacrifice was selfless. The right to vote we have today is because of them. When we look at our voter ID card, we may see our photograph, but if we look closely, we will feel the fragrance of these martyrs. Therefore, we must use our vote wisely,” he said.

He further cautioned people against devaluing this right. “Before independence, people celebrated festivals but had no right to vote as the British ruled us. These martyrs fought so that we could choose our leaders through a democratic process. This right is precious, and people must never sell their vote for money, influence or temptation,” added CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Underscoring the depth of the martyrs’ vision, he said, “This voter card is not cheap; it has been earned through great sacrifice. There are countless stories, books, letters, plays and films about Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev. The more you read about them, the more you admire their deep thinking about the nation’s future, even at a young age. The British built grand structures thinking they would rule forever, but they failed to realise that young revolutionaries like Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh were ready to sacrifice everything to drive them out,” he said.

Expressing concern over persisting challenges, the Chief Minister said, “Even after more than 75 years of independence, the dreams of these great freedom fighters are yet to be fully realised. The nation continues to face problems like poverty, unemployment and illiteracy. Since assuming office, our government has made continuous efforts to provide relief to people from these issues,” he added.

Calling for preservation of the martyrs’ legacy, he said, “It is the moral duty of every citizen to respect our martyrs and preserve their legacy. Nations that forget their martyrs lose their identity over time. Punjab has made immense sacrifices, from the freedom struggle to various movements protecting the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Highlighting Punjab’s contribution, he stated, “Despite being just two percent of the country’s population, 80% of the martyrs executed or exiled during the freedom struggle were from Punjab. At the time of independence, when the nation celebrated, Punjab suffered the horrors of Partition, where lakhs lost their lives, were displaced and lost their homes and properties,” he added.

Reaffirming his government’s vision, the Chief Minister concluded, “The AAP Government is committed to fulfilling the aspirations of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh and building a harmonious and egalitarian society. This young hero sacrificed his life to free the country from foreign rule. We will leave no stone unturned to realise his vision, and we have already launched several pro-people and development-oriented schemes to provide relief and build the society envisioned by our martyrs,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Land belongs to people of Punjab, not Bhakra Beas Management Board: Harjot Singh Bains

Punjab E News (March 23): Punjab Education Minister and Sri Anandpur Sahib MLA Harjot Singh Bains on Sunday announced that the CM Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government will soon confer ownership rights on shopkeepers, residents and other occupants of surplus land in Nangal, Talwara and adjoining townships, asserting that the land belongs to Punjab and not to the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). The move will end decades of uncertainty for thousands of families, with the Water Resources Department already issuing formal communication to the BBMB regarding over 800 acres of such land.

Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated, “Our elders gave their lands and worked with their hands so that a newly independent India could get water and electricity. They also built this town. Yet, for over 50 years, the Bhakra Beas Management Board, an authority meant only to operate the project, began acting like a landlord, harassing the very people who built it.”

Referring to his earlier assurance, Harjot Singh Bains continued, “Four months ago, I met affected families in Nangal and promised a permanent solution. Today, that promise is being fulfilled. The Water Resources Department has served formal notices to the Bhakra Beas Management Board, making it clear that over 800 acres of surplus land is the property of Punjab.”

Clarifying the legal position, he said, “The Bhakra Beas Management Board has no authority to frame a lease policy for such properties. The land was acquired from our people for the dam projects. Now that the projects have been completed, the surplus land must return to the state and ultimately to the people who have lived on it for generations.”

Outlining the policy framework, Harjot Singh Bains added, “The Bhagwant Mann government is framing a comprehensive policy under the supervision of the Water Resources Department to grant ownership rights to existing occupants. All eligible shopkeepers, families and residents will be given rightful ownership. They will have to deposit only the legitimate charges as per stamp duty. No one will be left in uncertainty.” He further added that a new judicial complex for Nangal has also been identified and will be developed.

Emphasising the broader significance, he stated, “This is not just a policy change, it is the correction of a historical wrong. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government stands with the families who sacrificed their lands for the nation.”

If Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh had been India’s first Prime Minister, country’s situation would’ve been entirely different: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

Hussainiwala (23 March 2026): At Hussainiwala in Ferozepur, on the Shaheedi Diwas (martyrdom day) of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann paid tributes at the historic National Martyrs Memorial, facilitated the families of the martyrs, and laid the foundation stone of the ₹24.99 crore Hussainiwala Heritage Complex, reaffirming his government’s commitment to honouring the martyrs and building a Rangla Punjab rooted in their vision.

Invoking the legacy of the nation’s greatest revolutionaries, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the occasion is not merely to remember their sacrifice but to carry forward their fearless ideals and unwavering stand against injustice. He renewed his resolve to serve Punjab and the nation in line with their vision, while also questioning the continued denial of the Bharat Ratna (highest honours) to these freedom fighters and asserting that India’s trajectory would have been profoundly different had such courageous, youth-driven leadership shaped its early years.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Selfish leaders in this country have built stadiums in their own names even while alive, but have done little to honour true martyrs like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev.”

The Chief Minister stated, “These iconic revolutionaries sacrificed their lives at a young age, but after independence, others occupied the corridors of power and took credit for the freedom they did not fight for.”

“Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, and Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh have been reduced to being remembered with flowers, while others claimed the legacy of independence,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, further noting, “They were hanged early to silence them because people had begun to rally behind their fearless ideas.”

Reflecting on the cost of independence, the Chief Minister said, “No one could have imagined how costly our independence would be, with around a million people losing their lives during Partition and millions forced to migrate.” He added, “Our elders made immense sacrifices, but those ruling today fail to understand that pain as they inherited a ready-made nation built on those sacrifices.”

“Some thankless leaders now claim that India got true independence only in 2014, which is a grave insult to our martyrs,” he said, adding, “It is shocking that some even describe Shaheed Bhagat Singh merely as a ‘social worker’ and not a martyr. Who are these people to give such certificates?”

Calling upon people to draw inspiration from the martyrs, he said, “Today is a day to remember these legendary heroes, to read and listen to their stories which continue to inspire generations of youth.”

The Chief Minister reiterated that political priorities have long been misplaced, stating, “Leaders have built statues of themselves and named stadiums after themselves while alive, but have failed to honour martyrs like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev.”

He added, “It is unfortunate that we had to struggle to get Mohali airport named after Shaheed Bhagat Singh, as the Centre ignored repeated requests, but our persistent efforts ensured that it was eventually named in his honour.”

Highlighting further steps, he said, “Halwara airport is being named after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, whom Shaheed Bhagat Singh regarded as his mentor.”

He asserted, “If Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh had become the Prime Minister after the first elections of 1952, the entire map of the country would have been different. Today, a 35-year-old youth has become Prime Minister in Nepal. If leadership had been handed to youth here as well, India would have been number one in the world.”

The Chief Minister noted that remembrance must go beyond symbolic gestures, stating, “People remember Shaheed Bhagat Singh only on his birth or martyrdom anniversary, but he belongs to all of us, not just one family.” He added, “If we follow his ideals, no one can stop Punjab from becoming prosperous again.”

“Our history is full of sacrifices, and our great Gurus have always taught us to stand against tyranny, injustice, and oppression,” he said, while cautioning, “It is unfortunate that we are forgetting these sacrifices. We memorise facts for exams but fail to understand their ideology.”

Recalling the life of the martyr, he said, “Shaheed Bhagat Singh even left home on the day of his engagement, choosing the path of revolution over personal life.”

He added, “It pains me when people merely put his picture on vehicles and say he will return.”

Calling for action, the Chief Minister said, “Instead of waiting for him to return, we must follow his path and serve the nation.”

He emphasised, “Today, bombs and weapons are not needed. The power of the ballot is supreme, and by choosing the right leaders, people can bring real change.”

Urging people to take a pledge, he said, “Let us resolve to follow the path of the martyrs and build our Punjab with our own hands. This sacred land of Hussainiwala, where the mortal remains of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev were cremated by the Britishers, continues to inspire generations for selfless service.”

The Chief Minister said, “I am blessed to visit this sacred land and pay tributes to the martyr who laid down his life at the age of 23 for the freedom of the nation. Our government will leave no stone unturned to realise the dream of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, to whom the nation will always remain indebted.”

“His martyrdom inspired countless youth to join the freedom struggle and will continue to inspire millions to serve the nation selflessly,” he said, calling upon youth to follow his path to build a progressive and prosperous India.

Earlier, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of the Hussainiwala Heritage Complex, stating, “This ₹24.99 crore project is a humble effort to honour our great martyrs and preserve their legacy for future generations.” He added, “The project aims to develop the heritage area at Hussainiwala and will also boost tourism in Punjab.”

Detailing the project, he said, “The complex will feature a grand heritage entrance gate, a corridor dedicated to the lives of martyrs, wall paintings, beautification and landscaping of parks and memorial areas.” He added, “It will also include thematic representations of historical events, a 3D mapping show on the old bridge, a musical fountain, play areas for children, comfortable spaces for senior citizens, an on-grid solar power plant, and an RO plant for clean drinking water.”