Patiala, January 26: The Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday vowed to crush the forces inimical to the state. He pledged to foil their conspiracies for disturbing peace, communal harmony, brotherhood, and amity of Punjab. The CM Bhagwant Mann addressed the gathering after unfurling the national tricolor flag. This was during a function to commemorate the 76th Republic Day in the local Polo Ground. He said that Punjab is the land of the gurus, saints, seers, and martyrs. It has always been a torch bearer to mankind for values of brotherhood and communal harmony.  He said that maintaining the hard earned peace in the state is the first and foremost priority for his government. No one will be allowed to disturb it. Bhagwant Singh Mann asked for the people’s full support and cooperation. This will help foil any conspiracy to derail peace, progress, and prosperity of the state.

CM Warns Against Fissiparous Forces “

The Chief Minister warned the fissiparous forces. He assured them that their evil designs to create communal strife would be nipped in the bud. He stated that the social bonding in the state is very strong. Any seed could grow on the fertile land of Punjab. However, the seed of hatred will never germinate here at any cost. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that individuals are making futile attempts to disturb the state’s hard-earned peace.. However, Punjabis will further cement the bond of love. The harmony and peace will continue to grow. The Chief Minister said that on this day in 1950, India became a Sovereign, Socialist, Democratic, and Secular Republic. The Constitution was drafted by our forefathers. Bharat Ratna Baba Saheb Dr BR Ambedkar led them. This historic document came into effect on this auspicious day. He said that it was really a moment of glory for all of us. We got the power to exercise our franchise. This achievement fulfilled the aspirations cherished by our forefathers. They dreamed of having the ‘Government of the people, for the people and by the people’. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he strengthens the country’s democratic republic ethos every day. This has happened over the past 75 years. The countrymen displayed unflinching faith in democratic norms. They gave a clear verdict in favour of ‘ballot’ without any fear.

“CM Bhagwant Mann Honors Punjabi Sacrifices for India’s Sovereignty and Freedom”

The Chief Minister said that Indians have thwarted every attempt to endanger the country’s sovereignty. Especially the Punjabis have shown great resilience. He said that our brave patriots have safeguarded the country during the wars in 1947, 1962, 1965, and 1971. They have made supreme sacrifices. indians have defended the nation. They have also protected the dignity and sovereignty of the nation during the Kargil war. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction for all of us. Punjabis have inherited an indomitable spirit of self sacrifice and patriotism. This comes from our Great Sikh gurus. They have taught us to fight against oppression, tyranny, and injustice. The Chief Minister said that a dream envisaged by our great forefathers was fulfilled. It was a dream of an Independent and sovereign Indian Republic. This fulfillment was due to enormous sacrifices made by the countrymen. They fought against the mighty British Raj. But, he said that none could ever forget the sacrifices made by the Punjabis. These sacrifices were unparalleled in the Indian National freedom struggle. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction. Although Punjabis are merely two percent of the country’s population, they made substantial sacrifices. During the freedom struggle, 80% of the martyrs executed or exiled were from Punjab.

CM Bhagwant Mann ; “Punjab: Land of Heroic Struggles and Unyielding Spirit”

CM Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab was the land of watershed movements of the Indian freedom struggle. These included Kuka, Ghadar, Kisan, Pagri Sambhal, and others. It produced sons of the soil like Lala Lajpat Rai and Diwaan Singh Kalepani. They laid their lives for emancipating the country from the clutches of British Imperialism. He said that the heroic deeds of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev invigorated the national freedom struggle. Their bravery gave it new energy. The courageous acts of Shaheed Udham Singh and Kartar Singh Sarabha also revitalized it. These brave acts ignited inspiration for generations. Their actions inspired generations to rise against British imperialism. He said that even during crises in post-independence times, we have faced challenges. We, the brave Punjabis, have never let our high spirits go down. Even in tough times, we keep our spirits high. We strengthened the ethos of democracy by reposing full faith in the constitution of the nation.

“Chief Minister Highlights Punjab’s Struggles and Farmers’ Sacrifices for National Food Security”

CM Bhagwant Mann said that despite our limited natural resources, the farmers of the state have worked hard. They have made the country self-reliant in food production. This achievement came at the cost of overexploiting the only available natural resources of the state. He reminded that at the time of independence, the entire country was rejoicing. However, Punjab, being the border state, suffered the brunt of partition. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab went through the horrors of a violent partition. During this time, lakhs of Punjabis lost their lives. Many were rendered homeless. Additionally, many more lost their lands and properties. However, CM Bhagwant Mann bemoaned that in the last more than seven decades since independence, Punjab had to suffer. It faced inexplicable discrimination from the governments at the Centre. This happened in the form of regressive and ruinous policies. He said it is unfortunate. The food growers made the country self-reliant in food production. Yet, they have been forced to agitate on this day too. He added that the centre government’s apathetic attitude forces the hands that feed the country to resort to hunger strikes. They do this to get their demands fulfilled. CM Bhagwant Mann said that the tractor is the king of the fields. It now has to travel on roads towards Delhi. This happens instead of producing food grains due to the callous attitude of the Union government.

“CM Urges Centre to Address Farmers’ Demands and Release Punjab’s Pending Funds”

CM Bhagwant Mann said that the centre should accept the demands of the food growers. By doing so, they can serve the country well. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the plight of farmers is severe because the Union government neglects them. This situation hurts every Indian who believes in constitutional values. He said that the centre government should stop the step motherly treatment towards Punjab and its hard working people. CM Bhagwant Mann cited another example of the Union government’s indifferent attitude towards Punjab. He said that the centre government has not released the state’s pending share of RDF. This share is worth Rs 5500 crore. Bhagwant Singh Mann said it does not align with the country’s federal structure. This structure is enshrined in the country’s constitution. He stated that states are not beggars. They should receive their legitimate share of funds from the centre. The centre should not harass them.

“CM Bhagwant Mann Highlights Punjab’s Progress and Commitment

The Chief Minister stated that his government has adhered to the ideals of Shaheed Bhagat Singh since assuming charge. His government has been committed to these principles from the start. The government also follows the ideals of Baba Sahib Dr BR Ambedkar, to ensure the well-being of all. He said that strenuous efforts are being made to fulfill the aspirations of our great freedom fighters. The state government’s concerted efforts have propelled Punjab to the forefront in the country. An unprecedented era of progress, prosperity, and peace is being witnessed in the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government has taken several pro-people initiatives. These are development oriented initiatives. They ensure that the dreams of the founding fathers of this country are realized. As a result, people can enjoy the fruits of freedom.

Punjab is giving the highest rate of sugarcane

Listing the achievements, the CM Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab is giving the highest rate of sugarcane. This is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction. It is not only the highest in the country but also across the globe. This immensely benefits its farmers. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state will continue to lead the country in the maximum sugarcane price. This is due to the commitment of the state government. He said that his government has always provided high rates to the sugarcane cultivators. This trend will continue in the future too. The Chief Minister said that the state Government has launched the first of its kind initiative in the country. They have created a dedicated Sadak Surakhiya Force to ensure enhanced security. It aims to save precious lives on the State and National Highways. He said that since its launch last year, this force has saved 48% of lives in road accidents. Additionally, it has returned the valuables and money of people injured during these accidents. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the force has been deployed all along 4200 km of the Highways. These areas are prone to traffic accidents. In addition to patrolling in the assigned areas, they act as a deterrent for traffic violations and more.

they have set up 881 Aam Aadmi clinics across Punjab

The Chief Minister said that the state government aims to impart quality healthcare services to people. To achieve this, they have set up 881 Aam Aadmi clinics across Punjab. These clinics have revolutionized the health care sector in the state. He said that so far more than 2.70 crore people have taken the benefits of these clinics in the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that ever since inception these clinics have witnessed a huge footfall. This indicates that every third person of the state has taken benefit from these clinics. The Chief Minister said that the state government launched the guarantee to provide free power to the people in 2022. Since then, 90% of the households in the state are getting free power. These households have received zero power bills. He said that this has eased a big burden on the pocket of the common man. It has saved a huge amount of money for the poor households. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction. Domestic consumers are getting free and uninterrupted power in the state. The food growers of the country also benefit from this.

state has created history by purchasing Goindwal power plant

The Chief Minister assumed charge of office in March 2022. After a few months, he resumed coal supply from Pachwara coal mines. He said that the state has created history by purchasing Goindwal power plant owned by a private company GVK Power. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that for the first time this reverse trend has started. A government has purchased a private power plant. In the past, the state governments used to sell their assets to the favorite individuals at ‘throw away’ prices. The Chief Minister further stated that the Punjab Government is transforming 118 Government Senior Secondary Schools.These schools will become Schools of Eminence. The school will equip them with smart classrooms, fully equipped labs, and playgrounds for scientific learning.He stated that the state government’s diligent efforts have led to an increase in enrolment. Enrolment in government schools has grown by around 17% in Pre-primary classes.Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that the government has started a special program to upscale the expertise of teachersIt sends teachers and principals abroad for training to ensure they master modern teaching practices. These skills help prepare students for future competitions on the international stage.

state used only 21% of canal water for irrigation

The Chief Minister talked about the beginning of his term. At that time, the state used only 21% of canal water for irrigation. At that time, irrigation efficiency was low. However, he said that it brings great pride. He is satisfied that farmers use 75% of the canal water for irrigation purposes today. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government has ensured availability of canal water to farmers at the tail ends. These farmers have been deprived of this for decades. On one hand, the government ensured water availability, and on the other, it saved the precious groundwater. The Chief Minister said that in a major citizen centric initiative, the state Government has launched a new scheme namely Door-Step  Delivery  of  Services under “Bhagwant  Mann Sarkar  Tuhade Dwar”   to   provide  services  to   the citizens  at  their  door-step  on  demand.  He said that the scheme has identified 43 citizen services, which constitute more than 99% of the daily administrative tasks for people. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that people greatly benefit from the availability of these services at their places of residence. The Chief Minister affirmed the state government’s unwavering commitment to boosting investment and developing industrial infrastructure. Furthermore, he highlighted that the state government has successfully secured over ₹85,000 crores in investments. Notably, leading companies such as Tata Steel, Sanatan Textiles, and others plan to employ approximately 3.50 lakh people as they invest in Punjab. In addition, Bhagwant Singh Mann mentioned that the state government has introduced Green Stamp Paper for the registration of sale deeds. This initiative aims to ensure faster and smoother issuance of regulatory clearances for industrial projects, thereby streamlining the process and encouraging more investments. Moreover, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to provide government jobs on merit to deserving candidates. He pointed out that the state government has ensured fairness in recruitment while also prioritizing efficiency in the process. As a result, the government has already provided more than 50,000 jobs to the youth of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann further stated that this initiative has significantly contributed to making the youth active participants in the socio-economic progress of Punjab, thereby fostering a brighter future for the state. The Chief Minister said that the state government has continued to drive   to eradicate corruption at an increasing pace. He said that the state government has introduced an anti corruption helpline number 9501200200 on which any person can lodge their complaint if anyone seeks bribe from them. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the government has adopted a Zero Tolerance Policy towards corruption to ensure transparent governance. The Punjab Vigilance Bureau registered trap cases against Gazetted Officers, Non-Gazetted Officers, and private individuals who the authorities caught red-handed while accepting illegal gratification. The Chief Minister said that the state Government  has  notified the FARISHTEY  scheme, in order to save the life of accident victims and encourage  the  general  public  for  their  hassle-free participation towards helping the accidental victims. He said that the state Government offers a financial   reward   of Rs.  2000 to commend their  noble  deeds. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that, in addition to the financial reward, the government issues a certificate to such individuals and provides them immunity from legal complications and police inquiries. The Chief Minister said that in order to increase the manpower in the Police department for enhancing its efficiency, the state government has already decided to recruit 1800 Constables and 300 Sub Inspectors every year in Punjab Police to overcome the scarcity of cops. He stated that around 2.50 lakh candidates are expected to apply for these 2100 posts every year. All aspirants will focus on academics. They will also work on improving their physique to clear the tests. Bhagwant Singh Mann also announced that the state government has decided to recruit 10,000 new cops in the Punjab Police, with the notification already issued. The Chief Minister said that it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that by eliminating the word contractual prefixed before the posts of employees the state government has regularized services of 12710 teachers by overcoming all the legal and administrative hiccups.He announced that by regularizing their services, these teachers will receive an annual salary increment of 5%, along with other benefits, including holidays.Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this will ensure that these teachers become an active partner in socio- economic development of the state. The Chief Minister said that recognizing the immense contribution of jawans of Armed forces, Paramilitary forces, Police and even Agnivirs in safeguarding unity and integrity of the country, the state government gives financial assistance worth Rs 1 crore to the family in case the jawans attain martyrdom in line of duty. He said that this financial assistance is given as a mark of respect for the supreme sacrifice made by the hero for the country. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this humble initiative of the state government is in recognition of the immense contribution of this son of soil towards preserving the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country. The Chief Minister stated that, over the last three years, people have placed their trust in the state government’s pro-people policies, leading to a significant increase in tax collection. He added that the government has closed 18 toll plazas in the state, despite most of them seeking extensions, which were denied in the larger public interest. Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasized that closing these toll plazas saves Rs 63 lakh daily from the pockets of the common people in Punjab. The CMannounced the opening of the state-of-the-art NRI Facilitation Centre, “Punjab Help Centre,” at Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, to facilitate the Punjabi Diaspora worldwide. He stated that the center operates 24×7 and provides assistance to all NRIs and other passengers arriving at the terminal. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the passengers/relatives can take assistance regarding arrival flights, connecting flights, taxi services, lost luggage facilities and any other assistance required at the airport. Earlier, the CM inspected the parade led by parade commander Vaneet Ahlawat, IPS. He also took a salute from an impressive march past by contingents of Punjab Police, Punjab Home Guards, Punjab Police, ITBP, NCC Girls and Boys, Red Cross besides the Punjab Police Brass band. On the occasion, the students of various local schools presented a colorful variety program imbued in patriotic fervor including Bhangra, Gidha, Group Dance, PT show and group singing. The CM also felicitated Freedom fighters and their kin in recognition of their valuable contribution in the freedom struggle of the country. He also gave away tricycles to the physically challenged and sewing machines to the poor and needy women. A series of Tableaux depicting the overall development of the state, especially the district administration was also the star of attraction.