Chandigarh/Ferozepur, August 16: Punjab Transport and Rural Development & Panchayat Minister  Laljit Bhullar hoisted the national flag at Cantonment Board Stadium in Ferozepur Cantonment. He graced the district-level Independence Day commemoration function as chief guest and inspected the parade comprising contingents from Punjab Police, Punjab Police Women’s Wing, Punjab Home Guards, NCC, Scouts and Guides.

Bhullar praises martyrs

Addressing the gathering, Laljit Bhullar  remarked that our nation achieved freedom through the unparalleled sacrifices and struggles of countless martyrs and freedom fighters. We are paying homage to these brave souls and all who participated in various independence movements.

“He stated that the Punjab government, supported by strong public backing, is driving progress under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. Consequently, landmark decisions to combat corruption, tackle drug abuse, implement the ‘Farishtey’ scheme, and provide free electricity are yielding positive results.

Furthermore, Bhullar emphasized that martyrs’ sacrifices have deeply marked Punjab’s soil. As a result, Ferozepur district is honored as the land of martyrs and the epicenter of our great patriots’ activities.”

Punjab Govt Launches Major Initiatives, Introduces Volvo Buses

The Cabinet Minister Laljit Bhullar announced that the Punjab government has launched major initiatives in education, healthcare, and other sectors to advance all sections of society. He added that plans are underway to make Punjab a leading state in development.

“He also highlighted that the Transport Department has introduced 19 Volvo buses linking Punjab cities to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport for affordable and comfortable travel.” Furthermore, over Rs. 1,548 crore has been spent on free state bus travel for women from March 2022 to July 15, 2024. In addition, the government has launched the ‘Mukh Mantri Tirath Scheme’ to support religious visits for Punjab residents.”

 Minister announces recovery of 12,341 acres of panchayat land

The Cabinet Minister said that the state government has undertaken a special drive to reclaim illegally occupied panchayat lands, freeing approximately 12,341 acres worth over Rs.3000 crore.

He said that fulfilling employment generation promises, the state government has provided over 44,000 government jobs in past around 28 months, with more to come. “He added that the government has increased the pension for freedom fighters from Rs. 9,400 to Rs. 11,000.”

Earlier, the Cabinet Minister paid floral tributes to martyrs at the Hussainiwala Shaheedi Memorial. He said that our government will construct a museum at the site by incurring Rs.25-crore, with the first installment of Rs.2.5 crore already released. Besides this, a bus service will also be introduced for visitor convenience.

Event honors notable figures, features cultural programs

“During the event, we honoured individuals in various fields, including freedom fighters, Kargil martyrs’ families, athletes, students, officials, and outstanding employees. “The celebration also featured patriotic cultural programs, including traditional Punjabi folk dances like Giddha and Bhangra. Additionally, DSP Atul Soni led the parade, further enhancing the event.”

MLAs Ranbir Singh Bhullar, Rajnish Dahiya, Naresh Kataria, and Fauja Singh Sarari attended, along with officials, political leaders, students, teachers, and Panchayat representatives.”