*Our Govt Laid 14,000 Km Of Pipelines To Deliver Canal Water To 80% Of Agricultural Fields: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Mineral-Rich Canal Water Has Significantly Increased Paddy Productivity: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*For First Time, 18,000 Cusecs Of Water, Equal To The Bhakra Canal’s Capacity, Reaches Punjab’s Fields: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Will Lay Another 6,000 Km Of Pipelines For People Waiting For Canal Water For 40 Years: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Groundwater Levels Rise By 4 Metres; Punjab Moves From Dark Zones Towards Safe Zones: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
CHANDIGARH; 23rd October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that his government’s canal irrigation drive is transforming the Punjab’s agricultural landscape, boosting paddy productivity and reversing groundwater depletion, with the groundwater table rising by four metres. Calling canal water “desi ghee for Punjab’s crops,” he said that 18,000 cusecs of water was now reaching agricultural fields, supported by 14,000 kilometres of underground pipelines, with another 6,000 kilometres planned to extend the network. He said that the government’s mission was to bring canal water to every field, protect precious groundwater reserves and secure the future of Punjab’s farmers.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Discussed key issues concerning the protection of Punjab’s farming community and democracy during the 13th Session of the 16th Punjab Vidhan Sabha. Our efforts to ensure canal water reaches agricultural fields have yielded significant results. By laying 14,000 kilometres of pipelines, we have conserved groundwater. With mineral-rich canal water reaching the fields, paddy yield this season has reached nearly 90 maunds per acre. At the same time, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha has taken the lead in the country by introducing a significant resolution against anti-democratic and oppressive laws, an issue that has not yet been raised in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha. Punjab has always stood firm against oppression, and the AAP government will continue to raise its voice in the interests of the people. Inquilab Zindabad.”
Participating in a discussion in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that providing canal water to farmers is not merely an irrigation initiative; it is a decisive step towards protecting Punjab’s agricultural future, conserving our precious natural resources and safeguarding the interests of generations to come. “Canal-water utilisation had increased from 22% in 2022 to over 80% today, with approximately 14,000 kilometres of pipelines laid to carry canal water to agricultural fields,” he said.
The Chief Minister pointed out, “Canal water is like desi ghee for Punjab’s crops. When our farmers receive adequate canal water, their dependence on groundwater declines, agricultural productivity improves and farming becomes more sustainable. Our objective is to ensure that farmers get water where and when they need it, instead of being compelled to depend entirely on borewells.”
He noted, “For decades, our farmers have been forced to dig deeper borewells to irrigate their crops as groundwater levels continued to decline. Our farmers have worked tirelessly to feed the nation, but the burden of saving their crops has increasingly fallen on our underground water reserves. We cannot allow a situation in which our farmers struggle for water while the future of our coming generations is put at risk.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Our sustained efforts have increased canal-water utilisation from 22% in 2022 to over 80% today. In some areas, canal water has reached villages where people had not seen it flowing through their fields for nearly 80 years. This is not just a change in the irrigation system; it is a change in the lives of our hardworking and resilient farmers.”
The Chief Minister highlighted, “According to a Union Government report, Punjab’s groundwater table has risen by four metres as a result of our efforts to expand canal irrigation. Reports from villages where canal-water distribution pipelines have been laid are also encouraging, with farmers reporting improvements in groundwater levels. These developments reinforce our resolve to expand canal irrigation and reduce excessive groundwater extraction.”
“Around 18,000 cusecs of canal water is reaching agricultural fields, demonstrating the scale of our efforts to strengthen irrigation facilities. Farmers in areas that have long struggled with inadequate irrigation are now receiving relief, while areas previously classified as dark zones because of excessive groundwater extraction are showing encouraging signs of recovery,” he added.
He emphasised the need to document and verify crop-wise productivity figures to assess the full impact of improved irrigation. He said that reports of increased paddy productivity in areas receiving canal water underlined the importance of systematically evaluating the benefits of the initiative.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “We have already laid approximately 14,000 kilometres of pipelines to strengthen water distribution and take canal water to agricultural fields. The cumulative length of these pipelines reflects the enormous scale of the infrastructure created to benefit our farmers. We will lay another 6,000 kilometres of pipelines to extend the irrigation network and bring more agricultural land under canal-water coverage.”
He said that the expansion would particularly benefit farmers in areas that had remained deprived of adequate canal-water supplies for decades.
The Chief Minister affirmed, “Every drop of groundwater saved today is an investment in the future of our farmers and our children. We want our farmers to have reliable access to irrigation without being forced to chase water deeper and deeper underground. Our mission is clear: every field in Punjab should have access to canal water, and we will continue working towards 100% utilisation of available canal water.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government would continue strengthening the canal network, expanding pipeline-based distribution and promoting judicious water use to ensure that Punjab’s agriculture remained productive without exhausting its natural resources. “This will help us restore our groundwater reserves and ensure that Punjab continues to lead the country in feeding the nation while protecting the water that sustains our agriculture,” he added.
------------
*Farmers Being Paid For Their Crops Within 24 Hours: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Will Ensure There Is No Shortage Of Space In Mandis For Storing Crops: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Special Trains Being Operated To Lift Foodgrains Stored In Mandis: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Farmers & Arhtiyas Happy As All Issues Have Already Been Resolved By Govt: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Good Paddy Yield To Make This Diwali Special For Farmers: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Will Improve Soil Fertility By Ensuring Canal Water Reaches Every Farm In Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Visits Rajpura Mandi, Interacts With Farmers & All Stakeholders*
RAJPURA; 23rd October 2026:
Punjab is ensuring hassle-free paddy procurement, with farmers receiving payments within 24 hours, special trains facilitating grain movement and the government working to ensure adequate storage space in mandis, said Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann during his visit to Rajpura mandi to review procurement operations. Interacting with farmers, arhtiyas and other stakeholders, he said all major issues had been resolved through coordination, adding that a good paddy yield would make Diwali more prosperous for farmers, while expanding canal irrigation to every farm would improve soil fertility and conserve groundwater.
Sharing a video from the visit, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “The tireless, round-the-clock hard work of Punjab’s farmer brothers is bearing fruit today in the form of higher yields and better incomes. From the fields to the mandis, your own government stands shoulder to shoulder with you at every step to ensure that you receive the full value of your produce. The prosperity of our farmers is the progress of Punjab.”
Visiting the ‘Anaaz-Mandi (grain market) to take stock of procurement operations, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that by Thursday 62.07 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) paddy had arrived in Mandis across the state out of which 60.50 LMT has been purchased and Payment worth ₹12,969.01 Crore has been made to the farmers. “Wherever paddy has arrived, it has been procured without any delay, immensely benefiting farmers. It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that all stakeholders are happy and there are no problems of any kind. The entire process is progressing smoothly, with excellent coordination, mutual understanding and trust among everyone involved,” he said.
The Chief Minister said, “The paddy is very dry this year, and crop yields have also been encouraging. Basmati production has been remarkable in areas such as Faridkot, Sangrur and Gurdaspur. Basmati farmers are receiving very good prices and are extremely happy with the high yields, which are translating into handsome incomes.”
Highlighting the role of canal irrigation, he said, “Canal water is like desi ghee for crops. It brings essential nutrients and silt that enrich the soil. I hope the fertility of Punjab’s land will improve further in the coming years.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mannadded, “Despite lower rainfall this year, less groundwater has been used because canal water has been made available in adequate quantities. It is a matter of immense pride that Punjab is conserving its precious groundwater resources.”
Explaining his decision to visit the grain market, the Chief Minister said, “I frequently visit the Rajpura grain market and was scheduled to go to Patiala today, but decided to stop here to review the arrangements and ensure that no one faces any inconvenience.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Payments are being made within 24 hours, and the funds under the Cash Credit Limit (CCL) have been received. The state government is in constant touch with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and other authorities to resolve any storage-space issues faced by rice mills.”
He added that special trains were operating to facilitate the movement of foodgrains from Punjab and ensure that procurement operations continued smoothly.
Expressing optimism ahead of Diwali, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “I hope this Diwali will be particularly joyful for Punjab’s farmers, commission agents, rice millers and transporters. Everyone is working in close coordination, and I am confident that the festival will bring happiness and prosperity to all.”
-----------
Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*DAY 276 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 468 RAIDS; 181 HELD*
*— POLICE TEAMS ALSO TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST 145 INDIVIDUALS*
*— PEOPLE CAN ANONYMOUSLY REPORT GANGSTER-RELATED INFORMATION VIA ANTI-GANGSTER HELPLINE NUMBER 93946-93946*
*— 111 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD ON DAY 601 OF YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH*
CHANDIGARH, October 23:
As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 276th day, Punjab Police today conducted 468 raids at identified and mapped locations linked to associates of gangsters across the state.
As per the information, the “Gangstran Te Vaar”— a decisive war to make Punjab a gangster-free state was launched by the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on January 20, 2026. Police teams from all the districts in coordination with Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) Punjab have been conducting special operations across the state.
On Day 276, Police teams arrested 181 individuals held with seven weapons, taking the total arrests to 80,234 since the launch of the campaign.
Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 145 persons. Police teams have also arrested six Proclaimed Offenders (POs) during the operation.
People can anonymously report information related to wanted criminals and gangsters, and also share tips on crime and criminal activity, through the Anti Gangster Helpline number 93946-93946.
Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its drive against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” for 601st day with 111 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 251 grams heroin, 2111 intoxicant pills and Rs 2950 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 87,391 in just 601 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 12 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.
---------
Office of Chief Electoral officer Punjab
Special Camps to be held at all Polling Booths across Punjab on October 24: Anindita Mitra
*Chandigarh, 23rd October:*
As per the instructions of Election commission of India, Special Camps are being organized at all polling booths across the State of Punjab on 24th October, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM to facilitate electors, Mrs Anindita Mitra Chief Electoral officer Punjab informed today.
The CEO stated that the camps are being organized to facilitate the voters to check their names in the Final Electoral Roll published on 12th October, 2026 under Special Intensive Revision (SIR), 2026 and filing applications for new enrolment and modification of electoral details.
Ms. Mitra informed that the qualifying date for new enrolment under the forthcoming Special Summary Revision (SSR) will be 01.01.2027. Any citizen who is attaining the age of 18 years on or before this date can apply for inclusion of his/her name in the electoral roll by filling Form No. 6.
Giving details about the forthcoming SSR schedule, Ms. Mitra said that the Special Summary Revision with reference to 01.01.2027 as the qualifying date will be undertaken across the State. As per the schedule, the Draft Electoral Roll will be published on 12.11.2026, the period for filing claims and objections will be received from 12.11.2026 to 11.12.2026 and the Final Electoral Roll will be published on 04.01.2027.
Mrs. Anindita Mitra appealed to all electors to make maximum use of the camp for obtaining electoral services and for verifying their names and particulars in the Final Electoral Roll, and specially called upon the youth attaining 18 years of age to visit their respective polling booths during the camp and get themselves enrolled.
-------
Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*INDIA FACING GRAVEST INSTITUTIONAL CRISIS, BEING PUSHED TOWARDS ELECTED DICTATORSHIP: AMAN ARORA SLAMS CENTRE ON ECI AUTONOMY*
- *ECI’s credibility has been systematically eroded, says Aman Arora*
*• Industries Minister calls the 2023 law a case of “institutional capture”*
Chandigarh, October 23:
Launching a scathing attack on the BJP-led Union Government, Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister and AAP state president Mr. Aman Arora on Friday said that India's electoral democracy is facing its "gravest institutional crisis" in decades, warning that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has been systematically stripped of its autonomy and the country is being pushed towards an "elected dictatorship."
While participating in the discussion on a crucial resolution seeking constitutional safeguards to protect the voting rights of eligible citizens, Mr. Aman Arora paid tributes to Punjab’s freedom fighters and revolutionaries who laid down their lives for the country’s independence and for the right to vote. Recalling Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision of equality at the ballot box, he asserted that the right to vote is not a privilege but the very foundation of democratic citizenship.
Mr. Aman Arora said the crisis was not about any individual Election Commissioner but was structural in nature. He pointed out that two Election Commissioners had raised objections about not being heard and their dissent being repeatedly ignored. Flagging lingering questions over EVMs and the functioning of the ECI, he said the nationwide protests by youth reflected a deepening public distrust in the electoral process.
“The issue is not limited to one Gyanesh Kumar. Tomorrow, whoever comes will have to function within the same system, because the strings are being pulled by those in power,” Mr. Aman Arora stated, while adding that a democracy does not survive on power alone; it survives on the perception of honesty and fairness.
Drawing parallels with the past, Mr. Aman Arora recalled former Chief Election Commissioner T.N. Seshan, who in 1995 suspended elections in Bihar four times amid large-scale booth capturing and refused to hold polls until paramilitary forces were deployed, despite pressure from the then government. He also cited former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa, who had objected to Prime Ministerial speeches during 2018-19 and later left the country to join the Asian Development Bank as Vice-President, calling the departure of such officers a loss to national institutions.
He also referred to earlier political attempts to reshape the ECI, including the move from a single-member to a three-member Commission, and said institutions like the ECI must not only be independent but must also appear to be independent.
Training his guns on the 2023 law governing the appointment of Election Commissioners, Mr. Arora said the selection committee- which earlier comprised the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition and the Chief Justice of India- has been reconstituted by replacing the Chief Justice with a Union Minister, leaving the Leader of Opposition in a minority. He also flagged the provision that allows the selection committee to consider “any other person” beyond the panel shortlisted by the search committee.
This structure creates a scenario where the accused is also the investigator, the lawyer and the judge. What this law means is that the ruling party can orchestrate the process, commit the crime and pass the judgment, he said, adding that the committees were merely ornamental while effective powers remained with the government.
Reminding the House of Punjab’s legacy in the freedom struggle, Mr. Arora said the responsibility of defending the Constitution now rests again on the people of the state. He strongly supported the resolution brought by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
“This is not a fight for one person or one party. It is a fight to preserve the soul of the world’s largest democracy. If the system is not restored, every future government will be forced to operate within a compromised framework. The survival of a 1.5-billion-strong nation depends on the people’s faith in the fairness of the democratic process,” Mr. Arora asserted.
--------
*‘Vote-Chori’ Is Serious Threat To Democracy; SIR Must Be Scrapped: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Investigate SIR Process & Take Action Against Those Responsible For Irregularities: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP Is Adding Its Votes & Deleting Opposition Votes In Name Of Election Commission: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Earlier, People Chose Govt; Now, Govt Decides Who Gets To Vote: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Elections In Bihar, West Bengal, Haryana And Maharashtra Were Won Through ‘Vote-Chori’: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP Defends Itself Whenever Opposition Questions Vote-Chori: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Dictatorship Has Today Taken Control Of All Four Pillars Of Democracy: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab Has Always Opposed ‘Dhakkashahi’; People Stand Against SIR: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab Vidhan Sabha Passes Resolution Against SIR By Voice Vote*
CHANDIGARH, 23rd October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday said that ‘Vote-Chori’ (vote theft) poses a serious threat to Indian democracy and demanded the scrapping of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, calling for an impartial investigation into the process and strict action against those responsible for irregularities. Addressing the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, he pointed out the BJP is manipulating electoral rolls in the name of the Election Commission by adding votes in its favour and deleting those of the Opposition, and claimed that elections in Bihar, West Bengal, Haryana and Maharashtra had been won through ‘Vote-Chori’.
The Chief Minister affirmed the country has reached a stage where the BJP government once chosen by the people is now deciding who could vote, warning that dictatorship had taken control of all four pillars of democracy. The Punjab Vidhan Sabha subsequently passed a resolution against SIR by voice vote, reflecting Punjab’s opposition to what CM Bhagwant Singh Mann declared as ‘Dhakkashahi’ (high handedness) and threats to citizens’ voting rights.
During discussion on motion to protect citizen’s voting rights under ongoing SIR, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Punjab had taken the lead in the country by passing a resolution condemning the SIR exercise and stressed that every eligible citizen must be able to exercise the right to vote without fear of arbitrary exclusion. “The right to vote is not a favour bestowed by any government. It is the foundation of democratic participation, and no eligible citizen should face unnecessary hardship or arbitrary exclusion while establishing their eligibility,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the Constitution envisioned by Baba Sahib Ambedkar guaranteed equality, dignity and political participation to every citizen. He expressed concern over voter deletions affecting particular sections of society and called for complete transparency and an impartial investigation into the electoral roll revision process. “Any exercise that determines who can exercise the right to vote must be transparent, fair and accountable. The protection of every eligible citizen’s voting rights is essential to preserving the foundations of Indian democracy,” he said.
He questioned why objections in the Assembly constituency had reportedly been raised only after protests began and why the Election Commission had now decided to formally record the minutes of its meetings. Referring to reported differences among Election Commissioners over the Commission’s decision-making process, he called for the highest standards of public scrutiny.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also criticised the BJP-led Union Government over the functioning of central investigative agencies, including the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation. He stressed that constitutional and investigative institutions must function independently and without political pressure. “The question before the country is simple: will India remain a democracy where every vote matters, or will we allow a system to emerge in which those in power decide whose voice deserves to be heard?” he asked.
The Chief Minister said the people of India had never given any government the authority to weaken the democratic foundations of the Republic. Warning against the emergence of an “elected dictatorship”, he said governments elected through democratic processes must never weaken the institutions that make free and fair elections possible. “Winning an election does not give anyone a licence to undermine the Constitution. The mandate of the people is a responsibility, not a weapon,” he said.
He said that when citizens began to fear that their names could be removed from electoral rolls or their democratic rights questioned without transparent and fair procedures, the damage extended far beyond an election and struck at the soul of the Republic.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also raised concerns over the Union Government’s approach towards Punjab’s efforts to attract international investment. “I have been working to present Punjab as a preferred investment destination before international business communities, highlighting the state’s industrial potential, skilled workforce and entrepreneurial spirit.”
He said the proposed foreign visit intended to promote Punjab’s investment opportunities had faced obstacles and that subsequent action against him raised questions requiring scrutiny. He also raised concerns about the Customs establishment and the need for transparency and accountability in the functioning of institutions. “Punjab’s economic progress must not be held hostage to political differences. Investment, employment and prosperity are directly linked to the future of our youth. Every effort to attract investment and create opportunities must be encouraged,” he said.
Expressing concern over India’s international economic direction, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann warned that proposed trade arrangements could expose Indian agriculture to external pressure and allow American commercial interests to influence the future of Indian farmers. “Punjab’s farmers have already demonstrated their determination to defend their livelihoods. They will not accept any arrangement that compromises their interests or undermines the future of Indian agriculture,” he said.
The Chief Minister stressed that trade agreements must not become a backdoor route for agricultural policies that farmers had previously rejected after a historic struggle. Referring to the farmers’ movement, he said Punjab’s experience had taught the country that peaceful democratic resistance was essential whenever the rights and livelihoods of ordinary people were threatened. “Farmers, labourers, traders, young people and every other section of society deserve a voice in decisions affecting their future. Any international agreement concerning agriculture must be examined transparently, with Parliament, state governments and farming communities given an opportunity to assess its implications,” he said.
Appealing to the people to raise their voices against injustice, the Chief Minister said silence only emboldened those seeking to weaken the rights of others. He urged citizens to protect the Constitution, nurture democratic values and speak up whenever the rights of the people were threatened. “Silence in the face of injustice only emboldens those who seek to weaken the rights of others. We must all nurture democracy, protect the Constitution and speak up whenever the rights of our people are threatened,” he said.
He said the future of India could not be left to those who believed that political power was more important than the people. He called upon democratic forces to rise above political differences and safeguard the sanctity of the vote, the independence of constitutional institutions and the principles enshrined in the Constitution.
Concluding his remarks, the Chief Minister urged all democratic forces to defend the principles of equality, justice and constitutional freedom. “We owe this responsibility to Baba Sahib Ambedkar, to the freedom fighters who sacrificed everything for an independent India, and to every future generation that deserves to inherit a free, equal and democratic nation,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
--------
INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT, PUNJAB
*PUNJAB INCREASES CANAL WATER UTILISATION FROM 26% TO 80%; IRRIGATION COVERAGE EXPANDS TO 61 LAKH ACRES: BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL*
*31.44 KM OF CANALS IN BABA BAKALA CONSTITUENCY LINED WITH CONCRETE AT A COST OF Rs. 21.97-CR*
*REMAINING 77 KM TO BE TAKEN UP FOR LINING ON FEASIBILITY AND PRIORITY BASIS*
*108.71 KM CANAL NETWORK SERVES BABA BAKALA AGRICULTURAL BELT*
*Rs. 7,500 CRORE SPENT TO STRENGTHEN CANAL IRRIGATION ACROSS PUNJAB: BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL*
*Chandigarh, October 23:*
Punjab Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal on Friday informed the Punjab Vidhan Sabha that the state government was expanding canal irrigation and strengthening the canal network to ensure that water reaches agricultural fields across Punjab.
Replying during question hour to a question raised by Baba Bakala MLA S. Dalbir Singh regarding canal water supply and the lining of watercourses in the constituency, the Cabinet Minister said that concrete lining of 31.44 km of canals had been completed at a cost of Rs. 21.97 crore while the remaining 77 km would be taken up on the basis of feasibility assessments and priority.
The Cabinet Minister informed the house that the canal network serving Baba Bakala constituency originates from the Sabhraon Branch of the Upper Bari Doab Canal (UBDC) system. Irrigation in the area is supplied through seven distributaries and five minors with a combined length of 108.71 km.
Responding to the concerns raised by MLA S. Dalbir Singh regarding the Raiya, Nagoke, Bhinder and Ghaggar Bhana Rajbahas, the Water Resources Minister said that these channels collectively serve around 28,540 acres of agricultural land. He said the government would take up the remaining canal lining works in a phased manner, subject to feasibility and the availability of funds.
Providing details of the work completed in the constituency, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal said that 31.44 km of the 108.71-km canal network had been lined with concrete at a cost of Rs. 21 crore 97 lakh 50 thousand. The remaining stretch of approximately 77 km would be considered for lining in the coming period based on technical feasibility and project priorities. He said the objective was to strengthen the canal infrastructure and improve the reliable delivery of irrigation water to farmers.
The Cabinet Minister said that canal water utilisation in Punjab had increased from around 26% to 80% under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann. He said that the government had focused on taking canal water to the tail-end areas so that farmers could access irrigation supplies closer to their fields.
He further informed the house that the area receiving canal irrigation had expanded from 20.89 lakh acres to 61 lakh acres. The government has spent Rs. 7,500 crore to strengthen the irrigation network and improve water distribution across the state.
Sharing details of water availability in Baba Bakala, the Cabinet Minister said that during the Kharif season, water flows in different distributaries ranged from 100% to 132.8% of their respective capacities. He added that canal flows across Punjab had reached 40,000 cusecs for the first time, whereas, the average water capacity was around 26,000 cusecs prior to year 2022.
The Water Resources Minister said the government was working towards its target of ensuring that the entire available share of canal water is utilised within Punjab for agricultural needs.
--------
*INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT*
*GOVERNMENT OF STATE OF PUNJAB*
*Punjab Assembly Unanimously Passes Resolution to Suspend Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira for Remainder of Session Over Derogatory Remarks*
*Insult to Punjab’s Working Class & Dalit Community Will Not Be Tolerated: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Demeaning Anyone on Basis of Caste, Social Status or Economic Background Can't & Will Not Be Tolerated: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*MLAs are Representatives & Must Respect Dignity of Labourers & Marginalised Communities: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Harpal Singh Cheema Proposes Condemnation Motion Against Congress MLA, Calls for Zero Tolerance Towards Caste Discrimination*
CHANDIGARH; 23rd October 2026:
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA and Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday moved a resolution in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha against Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira, seeking his suspension for the remainder of the ongoing session. The Minister called out the MLA for using derogatory language, defying the authority of the Chair, and deliberately disrupting parliamentary proceedings, resulting in the waste of valuable legislative time and undermining the dignity of the House.
Addressing the Assembly, AAP MLA and Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that members had taken serious exception to the objectionable terms used by Sukhpal Singh Khaira. He emphasised that such derogatory rhetoric directly attacks the self-respect and dignity of Punjab’s working class, particularly members of the Scheduled Caste community.
Harpal Singh Cheema emphasised that Punjab’s labour force had played an indispensable role in driving Punjab's progress and prosperity. He stated, “It is the duty of every citizen, and elected representatives in particular, to honour the hard work, integrity, and societal contributions of the working class.”
The AAP MLA asserted, “Demeaning any individual or group on the basis of caste, social status, or economic background cannot and will not be tolerated. MLAs were expected to conduct themselves with the utmost responsibility and preserve the dignity of the House.”
He stated, “Because public representatives exert a widespread influence on society, they must refrain from making comments that hurt the sentiments of any community. Despite historic and ongoing efforts to eradicate caste-based discrimination and foster social equality, resorting to disparaging language against vulnerable and marginalised sections remains deeply regrettable. All MLAs must stand united against caste discrimination.
Touching upon women’s economic empowerment, Harpal Singh Cheema commended CM Bhagwant Singh Mann for the government’s decision to provide monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500 or ₹1,000 to eligible women, which is as a landmark initiative that will help ensure financial security and self-reliance for underprivileged women.
He appealed to the House to send an unequivocal message, stating, “Disrespectful conduct directed at labourers, the Dalit community, or other marginalised groups will meet with zero tolerance.”
Harpal Singh Cheema proposed moving a condemnation motion against the Congress party over its stance. The resolution seeking Sukhpal Singh Khaira’s suspension for the remainder of the session was subsequently put to a vote and declared passed unanimously by the Speaker.
Concluding his address, Harpal Singh Cheema stressed, “Elected representatives in a democracy must lead by example, fostering mutual respect, equality, and fraternity through their speech and conduct. Safeguarding legislative dignity and social self-respect is a collective responsibility.”
-----------------
*INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT*
*GOVERNMENT OF STATE OF PUNJAB*
*Punjab Vidhan Sabha Unanimously Passes Harpal Singh Cheema’s Resolution To Protect Eligible Citizens’ Voting Rights Under SIR*
*Every Eligible Citizen’s Vote Must Be Protected; Independent Inquiry & Accountability Essential To Safeguard Democracy: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*No Eligible Voter Should Be Deprived Of Voting Rights: Harpal Singh Cheema*
CHANDIGARH, 23rd October 2026:
The Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Friday unanimously passed a significant resolution moved by Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, calling for constitutional safeguards to protect the voting rights of eligible citizens during the revision of electoral rolls under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. The resolution also urged the Union Government and relevant constitutional authorities to ensure transparency, impartial scrutiny of electoral roll discrepancies and accountability in the election process.
Addressing the House, AAP MLA and Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasised that protecting every eligible citizen’s right to vote was essential to strengthening Indian democracy. He said the Constitution of India was founded on the principles of equality, justice and the supremacy of the people. “Articles 324, 325 and 326 play a pivotal role in supervising the electoral machinery, preventing discrimination in voter rolls and guaranteeing universal adult suffrage,” he said.
Recalling the pre-independence era, when voting rights were restricted to a select section of society, the Cabinet Minister paid tribute to Bharat Ratna Babas Sahib Ambedkar for laying the constitutional foundation for equal voting rights for every adult citizen. “The right to vote was a hard-won democratic privilege that enabled the poor, labourers, Dalits, minorities and all sections of society to participate equally in the governance of the country,” he added.
Expressing concern over reports of large-scale deletions of names from electoral rolls and the exclusion of eligible voters, Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the revision of electoral rolls had raised serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process in different parts of the country. “Public confidence in democratic institutions could be maintained only by ensuring that no eligible voter was excluded and every citizen’s voting rights remained protected.
Referring to past controversies surrounding electoral rolls in Delhi and other states, the Minister highlighted complaints that supporters of opposition parties and marginalised communities had been selectively targeted. He called for a thorough and impartial investigation into such complaints, asserting that any deliberate attempt to undermine the electoral process must invite strict criminal action under the law if established by evidence.
The AAP MLA further called for an independent, transparent and credible mechanism to examine reported irregularities in electoral rolls and scrutinise administrative conduct under Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. “Institutional autonomy, neutrality and accountability of the Election Commission were indispensable to the functioning and survival of constitutional democracy,” he added.
Commending the House for unanimously supporting the resolution, the Minister said the right to vote was not merely an administrative formality but the voice of the common citizen and a fundamental expression of equal democratic participation. “Safeguarding this right is a collective constitutional responsibility that transcends political considerations,” he added.
Through the resolution, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha urged the Union Government and the relevant constitutional authorities to ensure the constitutional protection of voting rights, order an impartial inquiry into reported discrepancies in electoral rolls and establish accountability wherever irregularities were found. Copies of the resolution will be forwarded to the President of India, the Prime Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) for appropriate follow-up action.
Supporting the resolution, MLAs Inderjit Kaur Mann (Nakodar), Dr. Ishank Kumar (Chabbewal), Manpreet Singh Ayali (Dakha), Dr. Amandeep Kaur (Moga), Rupinder Singh Happy (Bassi Pathana), Dr. Nachhatar Pal (Nawanshahr), Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi (Batala), Prof. Baljinder Kaur (Talwandi Sabo), Amolak Singh (Jaito), and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora also shared their views in the House and extended their support to the resolution.
-----------
INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB
*Japan Men's Hockey Team Arrives in Mohali for Asian Champions Trophy*
*Japan Men’s Hockey Team Receives Grand Punjabi Welcome With Beats of Bhangra & Garlands at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport*
*Persistent Efforts of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Led to Punjab Getting Opportunity to Host Such Prestigious Tournament*
SAS NAGAR (MOHALI); 23rd October 2026:
The 18-member Japan Men's Field Hockey Team landed at the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Mohali, to participate in the Asian Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held at Jalandhar and Mohali from October 27 to November 5.
The team was accorded a grand welcome at the airport with the beats of Bhangra, traditional garlands and Punjabi hospitality by officials of the Sports department. The visiting players, who were visibly delighted by the warm reception, thanked the hosts and expressed excitement to play in Punjab, the land of hockey legends.
The Japan squad for the tournament includes: Yamada Shota, Tanaka Seren, Watanbe Jun, Matsumoto Kazumasa, Nagai Yuma, Yamashita Manabu, Fujishima Raiki (Captain), Nagayoshi Ken, Saito Hiro, Kashiwagi Ren, Tanaka Tsubasa, Ooka Ryoma, Kawamura Yusuke, Kuroda Kisho (Goalkeeper), Yamanaka Motoya, Ochiai Haruki, Kitagawa Takumi (Goalkeeper) and Fukuda Kentaro.
Elaborate arrangements have been made for the smooth stay, practice sessions and travel of the team during the championship. The Asian Champions Trophy, being hosted in Punjab for the first time, is expected to witness top hockey action with participation from leading Asian nations.
Owing to the persistent efforts of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the land of Punjab is becoming a first time witness to an international Hockey tournament.
The Punjab Government has assured all participating teams of world-class facilities, security and hospitality befitting an international sporting event.
Other than Japan and hosts India, teams from South Korea, China, Malaysia and Bangladesh are also participating in the Asian Champions Trophy tournament which would start on October 27th at Olympian Surjit Hockey stadium in Jalandhar while the Final would be played at Olympian Balbir Singh Senior hockey stadium in Mohali on November 5th.
——