Bathinda: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday said that Punjab has emerged as a preferred destination for government employment, claiming that even youth who had earlier migrated abroad are now returning due to the state’s transparent and merit-based recruitment system.
He made these remarks while distributing appointment letters to 665 newly recruited candidates of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) in Bathinda.
Over 68,000 Government Jobs Provided in 4.5 Years
CM Mann stated that his government has provided 68,268 government jobs in the last four-and-a-half years, emphasizing that recruitment is now being conducted purely on merit.
He said the era of obtaining jobs through recommendations or monetary influence has ended in Punjab, and the new system has restored trust among the youth.
“Reverse Migration” Trend Among Punjabi Youth
The Chief Minister claimed that transparent recruitment has triggered a reverse migration trend, with young people returning from abroad to seek employment in Punjab.
He highlighted the example of a female candidate who secured three government jobs, calling it a reflection of the opportunities being created under the current system.
Mann urged Punjabis living overseas to return home and contribute to the state’s development, stating that better opportunities now exist within Punjab itself.
Education Reforms Help Punjab Rank at Top National Level
CM Mann also highlighted achievements in the education sector, claiming that Punjab has secured the top position in India in primary and middle-school education.
He said the state has surpassed several states including Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi, due to reforms such as:
- Smart classrooms
- Teacher training programs
- Improved school infrastructure
Posting Policy for Women Employees Announced
The Chief Minister announced a new policy under which women employees in Group C and D categories will be posted within 40 km of their homes after completing probation.
He said the move is aimed at improving work-life balance and family stability among government employees.
Focus on Infrastructure, Irrigation, and Welfare Schemes
Mann said the government is using public funds for improving essential infrastructure, including:
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Roads
- Power systems
He also claimed significant progress in irrigation, stating that canal water usage has increased from 22% to over 80%, along with the development of more than 14,000 km of watercourses and pipelines across the state.
Health Coverage for 65 Lakh Families
The Chief Minister further said that under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, health cards are being issued to 65 lakh families, providing cashless treatment coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family per year.
He added that these welfare initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening public services and ensuring social security.
Candidates Appreciate Merit-Based Recruitment
Earlier in the event, several successful candidates appreciated the Chief Minister for ensuring transparent, merit-based recruitment, stating that the system has created fair opportunities for deserving youth in Punjab.
