Chandigarh: The Punjab Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has approved a series of important decisions focused on youth welfare, education, employment, and flood management. The decisions were announced after a cabinet meeting, with Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema briefing the media.
The government stated that these measures aim to strengthen opportunities for students and job seekers while improving state preparedness ahead of the monsoon season.
Free Bus Travel for NEET Re-Exam Students
In a major relief for students, the cabinet approved free travel on Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS, and PRTC buses for candidates appearing in the NEET re-exam.
Key Details:
- Free travel facility on June 20, 21, and 22
- Applicable across state transport services
- Students can travel by showing their admit cards
The move aims to ensure that students reach exam centres without difficulty or financial burden.
1013 Lecturer Posts: 5-Year Age Relaxation Approved
The cabinet also approved recruitment for 1,013 lecturer posts in the School Education Department.
Major Decision:
- One-time 5-year age relaxation for candidates
- Applicable to all categories
- Recruitment across 12 subjects
The decision is expected to benefit candidates who were unable to apply due to age restrictions during delayed recruitment cycles.
Direct Recruitment of 156 Junior Engineers
To strengthen infrastructure development, the cabinet approved the direct recruitment of 156 Junior Engineers in the Public Works Department (PWD).
This step is expected to speed up engineering and development projects across the state.
Strong Focus on Flood Prevention and Monsoon Preparedness
The Punjab government has also prioritized flood control measures ahead of the monsoon season.
Key Flood Management Steps:
- Accelerated de-silting of canals, drains, and water channels
- Empowerment of district officials and Deputy Commissioners for rapid action
- Streamlining of tender processes to avoid delays
Authorities have been instructed to ensure timely completion of all preventive measures.
Faster Implementation of Infrastructure Work
To speed up public works, the government has relaxed certain tendering norms, including:
- Allowing work allocation even if only one bidder participates
- Delegation of additional powers to field-level officials
These changes aim to ensure quick execution of critical infrastructure and flood protection projects.
Government Focus on Youth and Public Welfare
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that the decisions reflect the government’s commitment to:
- Supporting youth through education and job opportunities
- Ensuring smooth recruitment processes
- Improving public safety and disaster preparedness
He also criticized repeated paper leak incidents in competitive examinations, stating they harm students’ trust and future prospects.
The Punjab Cabinet’s latest decisions highlight a multi-pronged approach focused on education, employment, and disaster readiness. From free transport for students to large-scale recruitment and flood prevention measures, the state government aims to improve governance efficiency and public welfare.
