Punjab: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated development projects worth ₹516 crore in Hoshiarpur, focusing on healthcare expansion, road connectivity, education, and welfare initiatives. The projects aim to strengthen public infrastructure and improve service delivery across the region.
Major Healthcare Push with New Medical Infrastructure
The Chief Minister announced the development of the Shaheed Udham Singh State Institute of Medical Sciences, which is expected to be completed within the next two years.
Key features of the project include:
- Annual intake of 100 MBBS students
- A 300-bed multi-specialty hospital
- Facilities such as OPD, MRI, CT scan, and specialized departments
He also laid the foundation stone for a 30-bed Community Health Centre in Sham Chaurasi, equipped with modern operation theatres, laboratories, X-ray units, vaccination services, and maternity care facilities. The centre will benefit more than 40 surrounding villages.
Additionally, seven new Health and Wellness Centres were announced to further expand healthcare access in rural areas.
Road Infrastructure Boost for Better Connectivity
The Chief Minister inaugurated a ₹99 crore road project connecting Balachaur, Garhshankar, Hoshiarpur, and Dasuya. The 105-kilometre stretch is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity.
The upgraded road network will:
- Reduce travel time between major cities
- Improve connectivity to Chandigarh, Pathankot, and Jammu & Kashmir
- Support trade and local economic activity
Focus on Education and Social Welfare
CM Mann emphasized that education is key to improving living standards and reiterated the government’s focus on strengthening public schools and higher education infrastructure across the state.
He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving the quality of government schools and making education more accessible.
Welfare Schemes and Public Benefits
The government reiterated several welfare initiatives, including:
- Free electricity to nearly 90% of households
- Employment generation for over 65,000 youth
- Improved road infrastructure across Punjab
- ₹1,000 monthly assistance for women under the Maa Vandi Satkar Yojana, directly transferred to bank accounts
Political Remarks and Opposition Criticism
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Mann said previous governments allegedly neglected Punjab’s development for decades. He claimed that the current administration has fulfilled most of its election promises within four years.
He also criticized opposition parties, including the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal, accusing them of failing to deliver during their tenure and targeting his government unfairly.
Commitment to Balanced Regional Development
The Chief Minister stated that the government is committed to balanced development across Punjab, focusing equally on urban and rural regions. He added that ongoing projects are aimed at ensuring long-term economic growth and improved quality of life for citizens.
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