Punjab: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann outlined major achievements in irrigation, electricity, healthcare, and welfare reforms while addressing a large gathering during the “Shukrana Yatra” in Mansa and Sardulgarh. He emphasized that governance in Punjab since 2022 has been focused on transparency, development, and public welfare.
Massive Increase in Canal Water Usage for Irrigation
The Chief Minister highlighted a significant rise in the use of canal water for irrigation since 2022. He said that previously only 21% of irrigation needs were met through canal water, but now the figure has increased to nearly 68%, with a target of 85% during the upcoming paddy season.
He added that remote villages and tail-end regions are receiving canal water for the first time in decades, transforming agricultural irrigation across the state.
Major Infrastructure Push: Pipelines and Water Network Expansion
Punjab has laid nearly 14,000 km of pipelines and revived water channels to ensure equitable water distribution. According to the Chief Minister, around 21,000 cusecs of water have been released through this system, equivalent to the supply of two Bhakra canals.
He also noted that groundwater levels in several regions have improved by 2 to 4 meters due to recharge initiatives, reducing dependence on tubewells.
24-Hour Daytime Electricity for Farmers and Free Power for Households
Bhagwant Mann announced that farmers are now receiving uninterrupted daytime electricity, ending the long-standing practice of night-time irrigation.
He also highlighted that over 90% of households in Punjab are receiving free electricity, easing financial pressure on families and farmers.
Strong Stand on Anti-Profanity Law and Religious Harmony
The Chief Minister spoke extensively about the new anti-sacrilege law, stating that offenders will face strict punishment, including life imprisonment under the newly implemented legislation.
He said the law ensures accountability in cases of sacrilege and prevents misuse of mental illness claims to escape punishment. He emphasized that the law has constitutional and judicial backing.
Welfare Schemes for Women, Youth, and Families
The Punjab government announced the “Maa Diyan Saanjh Satiakar Yojana,” under which eligible women will receive monthly financial assistance directly in their bank accounts.
- SC women: ₹1,500 per month
- Other categories: ₹1,000 per month
- Coverage: Nearly 97% of women in the state
Additionally, the government has allocated ₹9,300 crore for this initiative.
Healthcare and Employment Reforms
Under the “Chief Minister Health Scheme,” all 6.5 million families in Punjab are being issued health cards, providing free treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family.
So far, over 3 million beneficiaries have received health cards, and 1.65 lakh people have already availed free medical treatment.
The Chief Minister also stated that over 65,000 government jobs have been provided based on merit without corruption or bribery.
Infrastructure Development and Toll Relief Measures
The government has undertaken large-scale infrastructure upgrades, including road modernization and institutional development. Several toll plazas have been shut down, saving citizens approximately ₹70 lakh daily.
Focus on Transparency and Anti-Corruption Governance
Bhagwant Mann criticized previous governments for corruption and misuse of public funds, stating that taxpayer money is now being invested in schools, hospitals, roads, and welfare schemes.
He reiterated that governance under the current administration is driven by transparency, accountability, and public service delivery.
Commitment to Public Welfare and Development
The Chief Minister reaffirmed that the Punjab government remains committed to fulfilling all promises made in 2022. He said that reforms in education, healthcare, electricity, and social welfare are reaching every household in the state. He concluded by thanking the public for their overwhelming support, calling it a reflection of trust in the government’s development and governance model.
