Sechewal (Punjab): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday participated in the 38th death anniversary ceremony of Sant Baba Avtar Singh in village Sechewal and inaugurated a new AstroTurf hockey stadium at the Sant Avtar Singh Memorial Hockey Ground.
During the visit, the Chief Minister highlighted the state government’s ongoing development initiatives in education, healthcare, irrigation, and infrastructure, and appealed to citizens to remain united.
New AstroTurf Hockey Stadium Inaugurated
CM Bhagwant Mann, along with Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, inaugurated the newly developed AstroTurf facility at the memorial hockey stadium.
He said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to promoting sports infrastructure and encouraging youth participation in athletics, especially hockey.
Focus on Irrigation and Water Management Projects
The Chief Minister highlighted major achievements in water conservation and irrigation, stating that the government has successfully supplied 21,000 cusecs of water to agricultural fields, equivalent to two Bhakra canals.
He also noted that environmental measures have helped recharge 21 lakh cubic metres of groundwater, raising water levels by 2 to 4 metres in several areas.
Additionally, he said that over 14,000 km of pipeline networks have been laid to rejuvenate traditional water channels.
Strong Push for Education and Healthcare Development
CM Mann said Punjab is developing world-class government schools, hospitals, and roads under its ongoing reform agenda.
He highlighted major healthcare initiatives, including:
- Establishment of 1,000 Aam Aadmi Clinics
- Distribution of health cards to 65 lakh families under the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana
- Free treatment coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family
So far, over 30 lakh health cards have been distributed, and 1.65 lakh beneficiaries have already received free treatment.
New Welfare Scheme for Women Announced
The Chief Minister announced the “Mavan- Dhiyaan Satkar Yojana”, under which:
- Every woman will receive ₹1,000 per month
- Scheduled Caste women will receive ₹1,500 per month
He said the scheme will benefit nearly 97% of women in Punjab, significantly strengthening social welfare support.
Crackdown on Sacrilege and Legal Measures
CM Mann expressed concern over incidents of sacrilege and said the government has implemented the “Sacrilege of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Act 2026”.
Under the law:
- Convicts may face 10 years to life imprisonment
- A fine of up to ₹50 lakh
- Property confiscation in case of non-payment
He said the move is aimed at ensuring strict protection of religious sentiments.
Call for Unity and Social Harmony
The Chief Minister urged citizens to remain united and cautioned against divisive forces. He said Punjab’s land does not support hatred and emphasized the importance of harmony and collective progress.
Commitment to Sports and Local Development
CM Mann also assured that local demands related to sports grounds and roads will be fulfilled. He said the government plans to develop international-level hockey facilities to support young athletes.
The Punjab government continues to focus on improving infrastructure, irrigation systems, healthcare access, education quality, and women empowerment, aiming to build a progressive and self-reliant state.
