*We’re Following Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji’s Path To Build Punjab Rooted In Equality, Dignity & Justice: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Quality Education Is Most Effective Way To Eradicate Poverty & Transform Families: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Govt School Students From Humble Backgrounds Are Now Clearing NEET & Pursuing Their Dreams: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*882 Students From Punjab Govt Schools Clear NEET, Up From Just 80 In 2021: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab Is Sacred Land Of Guru Sahiban, Saints & Peers; Seeds Of Hatred Cannot Flourish In Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Flags Off Grand Shobha Yatra In Dhuri To Mark Parkash Purab Of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji*
DHURI; 25th October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday paid obeisance to Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji and flagged off a grand Shobha Yatra at Gandhi Basti in Dhuri to mark his sacred Parkash Purab, reaffirming his government’s commitment to the path of truth, righteousness, equality and justice shown by the revered saint. Invoking the timeless teachings of the Ramayana, he said Punjab, the sacred land of Guru Sahiban, saints and peers, would continue to uphold the values of humanity, dignity and brotherhood, where the seeds of hatred could never flourish.
Highlighting education as the most powerful means of transforming lives, the Chief Minister said that 882 students from Punjab government schools had cleared NEET this year, compared with just 80 in 2021, demonstrating how quality education is opening doors to a brighter future for children from humble backgrounds.
Sharing a few snippets from this auspicious occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Participated in the grand Shobha Yatra organised at Gandhi Basti in Dhuri constituency, Sangrur, today to mark the Parkash Purab of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji and performed the ceremonial flag-off. The sacred Ramayana, composed by Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, conveys the timeless message of goodness, truth and equality. His profound teachings continue to serve as a guiding light for our society even today.”
“Heartfelt greetings to all devotees in Punjab and across the country and abroad on the auspicious occasion of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Jayanti, being celebrated tomorrow. Let us all resolve to follow the path shown by Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji and uphold his noble teachings in our lives,” he added
Paying tributes to Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, the Pitaamah of Sanskrit literature and the Adi Kavi, or first poet, gave the world the timeless epic Ramayana, which conveys the eternal message of the triumph of good over evil. Its teachings on morality, duty, compassion, ideal leadership and righteous conduct have guided generations and remain equally relevant today.”
The Chief Minister said, “In today’s materialistic world, we need to strengthen the values of truth, humanity and social responsibility. The teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji remind us that righteousness, equality and respect for every human being must remain the foundation of society.”
He said that Punjab is fortunate to be associated with the sacred legacy of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, who imparted knowledge and training to Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Ram, on this pious land. He said the great saints, Gurus, seers and martyrs had consistently inspired people to rise above divisions and work towards a society founded on unity, brotherhood and equality.
Emphasising the transformative power of education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Education is the most effective instrument of social transformation. Children from economically disadvantaged families are now clearing some of the country’s most prestigious competitive examinations, proving that talent is not restricted by financial circumstances.”
He said, “More than 30 lakh students appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) every year, and it is a matter of immense pride that 882 students from Punjab’s government schools have cleared the examination in the recently announced results.”
Highlighting the improvement in government school education, the Chief Minister said, “In 2021, only 80 students from government schools had cleared NEET. Today, the number has risen to 882, an increase of nearly 11 times in just four years. This achievement reflects the remarkable progress being made in improving the quality of education in our government schools.”
He said that the achievement was even more significant because many of these students came from humble economic backgrounds. “Their parents include rickshaw pullers, small shopkeepers, vegetable vendors and other hardworking people who struggle every day to provide a better future for their children. Some pull rickshaws, some run small shops, while others sell vegetables to earn their livelihood. Yet, their children are now clearing examinations like NEET and moving towards becoming doctors,” he said.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This is the real power of education and the transformation we want to bring to Punjab. Poverty cannot be eradicated merely through temporary financial assistance or dependence on ration cards and other welfare benefits. Lasting economic empowerment comes from quality education that enables children to build respectable careers and secure a better future for their families.”
He added, “Welfare facilities can provide support, but education gives children the power to change the future of their entire family. Educate your children and help them become officers, doctors and professionals, and they will lift their families out of poverty. When a child from a humble household becomes a doctor, an officer or a successful professional, the achievement transforms not only that child’s life but also the future of the entire family and the generations that follow.”
Welcoming the devotees who had gathered in large numbers for the sacred occasion, the Chief Minister expressed heartfelt gratitude to mothers, sisters, elders, youngsters and children for participating in the Shobha Yatra despite their daily responsibilities. He said, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the devotees who have joined us today. The presence of our mothers, sisters, brothers and children makes this sacred occasion even more special.”
He said that the teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji and other great spiritual figures continued to inspire people to uphold humanity and mutual respect. “The message of the great saints, Gurus and martyrs of Punjab and the country has always been the same: unity, equality, compassion and respect for every human being. Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji gave the world the message of equality and righteousness, reminding us that humanity is above everything,” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said.
Describing Punjab as a land blessed with fertile soil and a rich heritage of communal harmony, the Chief Minister said, “Punjab is a land where you can sow any seed and it will flourish, but the seeds of hatred do not grow here. Our people celebrate festivals together with love, joy and brotherhood. This spirit of unity is our greatest strength, and we must preserve it at all costs.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that his government is committed to strengthening public education so that children from economically weaker sections could compete with their counterparts from privileged backgrounds on an equal footing. Taking aim at previous governments, he said that poor students had been deprived of their rightful pre-matric and post-matric scholarship funds, undermining the aspirations of disadvantaged families and denying deserving children opportunities to progress.
He said, “Our government is committed to protecting the interests of students from underprivileged sections and ensuring that education becomes an effective instrument of social justice. No child should be denied opportunities because of poverty, and no individual should face discrimination.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann affirmed that the ideals of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji could be truly honoured by building a society where every individual could live with dignity and every family could aspire to a better future through hard work and education. He called upon people to follow the teachings of Maharishi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji and work collectively towards strengthening social harmony, communal brotherhood and equality.
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*We're Developing Punjab As Best Destination For Education: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*No Shortage Of Funds Will Be Allowed To Hamper Upgradation Of Govt Schools: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Our Govt Working To Open Multiple Career Pathways For Youth: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*‘No Cash, No Farmaish’, Jobs Being Given Purely On Merit: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Our Govt Has Provided Govt Jobs To More Than 70,000 Youth: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*People Must Elect Representatives Who Understand Their Pain & Problems: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Addresses Youth During Youth Festival At Desh Bhagat College*
DHURI, 25th October 2026:
Punjab is being developed as a leading education destination, with no shortage of funds allowed to hamper government school upgradation and new career pathways being opened for youth, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said on Sunday, asserting that his government has provided more than 70,000 government jobs purely on merit, on the principle of ‘No Cash No Farmaish’ (without bribes or recommendations). Addressing youngsters at a regional youth festival at Desh Bhagat College in village Bararwal, Dhuri, the Chief Minister urged them to focus on education and hard work, while stressing that Punjab needs elected representatives who understand people’s pain and problems.
Sharing a few snippets from the occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, I had the opportunity to interact with young people during the Regional Youth Festival at Desh Bhagat College in village Bararwal, Dhuri constituency. Seeing their enthusiasm and artistic talent brought back memories of my own early days, as my journey too began on stages like these. My advice to young people is that participating in these competitions is itself the biggest victory. Those who win should remain humble, while those who lose should work harder. Our government has provided more than 70,000 jobs to young people without any recommendations or bribes. Just focus on your education and hard work. The Punjab Government stands with you at every step.”
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The energy, talent and creativity of young people were among Punjab’s greatest assets, and the state’s future depended on nurturing these qualities and providing youth with meaningful opportunities to excel in every sphere of life.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “Education must go beyond classrooms, textbooks and examination results. True education lies in developing confident individuals with independent thinking, a strong sense of responsibility, respect for their cultural roots and the courage to pursue their dreams.”
Highlighting the importance of youth festivals, he said that such events enabled students to discover their hidden talents, overcome hesitation, develop self-confidence and learn valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork and healthy competition. “These platforms also allowed students to learn from one another, broaden their horizons and prepare themselves to meet the challenges of the future,” he added.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed happiness over the enthusiastic participation of students from 39 colleges in the festival, with 60 different activities being organised across four stages. “Students are showcasing their artistic abilities, creativity and skills through a wide range of cultural and literary competitions, reflecting the vibrancy and potential of Punjab’s younger generation.” He appreciated the contribution of Punjabi University, Patiala, and its Department of Youth Welfare in organising youth festivals over several decades.
The Chief Minister noted, “These initiatives have played a significant role in nurturing young talent, promoting cultural expression and strengthening the connection between the younger generation and Punjab’s rich heritage.”
Emphasising the importance of cultural activities in shaping well-rounded personalities, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that every student possesses unique abilities and potential. While circumstances and opportunities might differ, determination, dedication and hard work could help young people overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success. “Educational institutions have a responsibility to identify this potential, provide the right environment and ensure that no talent remains undiscovered for want of encouragement,” he added.
The Chief Minister pointed out, “The purpose of education is not merely to produce degree holders, but to develop enlightened, sensitive and responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully to society.”
He added that activities such as music, dance, theatre, literature and folk arts helped students develop emotional intelligence, creative thinking, mutual respect and a spirit of cooperation, all of which were indispensable for building a progressive society.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab’s cultural heritage is a source of pride and identity for our people. Youth festivals and folk festivals serve as vital links between generations, ensuring that the state’s traditional art forms, folk music, dances and indigenous games continued to flourish.”
Encouraging young people to remain connected with their roots while exploring new ideas, the Chief Minister said, “Such platforms strike a meaningful balance between cultural preservation and modern aspirations. Opportunities to participate in regional, inter-zonal and national-level events motivate students to set higher goals and demonstrate their abilities on bigger platforms. These experiences broaden the outlook of students, strengthen their confidence and inspire them to strive for excellence beyond the confines of their educational institutions,” he said.
Describing the Youth Festival as a meaningful initiative towards the all-round development of students, he said, “Investing in young people means investing in Punjab’s future. Youth must be encouraged to use their abilities constructively, pursue excellence in their chosen fields and play an active role in the state’s social, cultural and economic progress.”
“A ‘Rangla Punjab’ can be built only when its youth are empowered with knowledge, confidence, creativity and a strong sense of purpose,” he said.
The Chief Minister said, “Platforms which encourage talent, celebrate cultural diversity and instill positive values help transform students into capable leaders and responsible citizens.” He called upon students to dream big, work hard and never underestimate their potential.
Urging young people to remain rooted in their cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the aspirations and achievements of Punjab’s youth would play a decisive role in shaping the state’s future. “The Youth Festival is a celebration of young talent, a tribute to Punjab’s cultural richness and a reminder that when young people are provided with the right platforms, encouragement and opportunities, they can emerge as the driving force behind a stronger, more vibrant and ‘Rangla Punjab’,” he affirmed.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*DAY 278 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 525 RAIDS; 209 HELD*
*— POLICE TEAMS ALSO TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST 181 INDIVIDUALS*
*— PEOPLE CAN ANONYMOUSLY REPORT GANGSTER-RELATED INFORMATION VIA ANTI-GANGSTER HELPLINE NUMBER 93946-93946*
*— 152 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD WITH 11.7KG HEROIN ON DAY 603 OF YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH*
CHANDIGARH, October 25:
As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 278th day, Punjab Police today conducted 525 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 278, Police teams arrested 209 individuals held with one weapon, taking the total arrests to 80,667 since the launch of the campaign.
Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 181 persons. Police teams have also arrested eight 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 603rd day with 152 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 11.7 kg heroin, 1028 intoxicant pills and Rs 5200 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 88,086 in just 603 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 29 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*PUNJAB FARMERS TO GET 50% SUBSIDY ON CERTIFIED WHEAT SEEDS: GURMEET SINGH KHUDIAN*
*•₹50-Crore Scheme to Benefit Over 2.42 Lakh Farmers by Ensuring High-Quality Certified Seeds & Easing Financial Burden, says Khudian*
CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 25:
To ensure access to premium quality seed and reduce financial stress on the state farmers, Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian on Sunday announced a Rs 50-crore assistance scheme under which farmers will get certified, PAU and ICAR recommended wheat seeds for the State of Punjab at half price, capped at Rs 2,000 per hectare.
Sharing details of the initiative, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that certified wheat seeds priced at Rs 4,250 per quintal will be available to farmers for Rs 2,250 per quintal after adjusting the Rs 2,000 per quintal subsidy upfront at the time of purchase. The subsidy is capped at 50% of the cost or Rs 2,000 per hectare, whichever is less, aimed at helping farmers prepare quality seeds and build their farm-saved stock.
The Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department has projected a district-wise requirement to cover 2,42,218 beneficiaries, with a total proposed financial outlay of Rs 50 crore at a maximum assistance of Rs 2,000 per beneficiary. The scheme is being executed under the National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM) – Seed Components under the Krishonnati Yojana, he added.
To ensure a seamless and transparent application process, S. Khudian said that eligible farmers will have to visit their respective District or Block Agriculture offices with their Aadhaar cards and apply through the designated portal — http://www.agrimachinerypb.com — where their identity will be verified via an Aadhaar-linked OTP.
As a major quality-control measure, the Agriculture Minister said that the subsidy will be applicable only to certified wheat varieties recommended by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana and notified by the ICAR or Punjab Government, that are up to 10 years old. He said nodal agencies responsible for seed multiplication will be held strictly accountable for seed quality and any complaints regarding quality will be addressed by the concerned nodal agency.
To prevent misuse of funds and ensure targeted delivery, the department has put in place strict checks including first-come, first-served assistance as per district and block-wise targets, a two-year cooling-off period for beneficiaries as per Government of India guidelines, mandatory maintenance of complete records by Chief Agriculture Officers and detailed registers by Block Agriculture Officers and random verification of beneficiaries, seed quantity and subsidy amount before final approval by the head office. He advised farmers to strictly follow the prescribed online procedure and rely only on official departmental communications.
Highlighting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led state government’s commitment to farmer welfare, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian stated, “Our government is committed to ensuring that farmers get the best agricultural inputs without falling into financial distress. By strictly regulating seed quality and implementing a transparent, tech-driven distribution process, we are not only securing the upcoming wheat harvest but also ensuring that public funds are utilised with absolute accountability.”
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*Punjab Government Strengthens Social Security for Women in Distress; ₹729 Crore Financial Assistance Released to Widows and Destitute Women: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Nearly Seven Lakh Women Receive a Lifeline of Social Security Across Punjab*
*Around ₹1,300 Crore Earmarked for the Scheme During the Current Financial Year*
*Dr. Baljit Kaur Calls for Collective Efforts to Ensure No Eligible Woman is Left Behind*
Chandigarh, October 25:
Strengthening the social security net for women facing hardship, Punjab's Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, today said that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government has released nearly ₹729 crore under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Widows and Destitute Women, providing much-needed financial support to nearly seven lakh eligible women across the State.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said the scheme represents the Government's resolve to help vulnerable women lead lives of dignity, security and confidence. She emphasised that timely financial assistance not only eases economic hardships but also empowers women to rebuild their lives with greater self-reliance and hope.
The Minister informed that around ₹1,300 crore has been provided for the scheme during the current financial year, reaffirming the Punjab Government's continued focus on strengthening the social security framework for widows, destitute women and other vulnerable sections of society.
Sharing the eligibility criteria, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that widows and destitute women below 58 years of age, as well as unmarried women aged 30 years and above, are eligible for assistance under the scheme. Applicants must be residents of Punjab and their annual family income should not exceed ₹60,000.
The Minister directed the officers of the Social Security Department to proactively identify eligible beneficiaries, ensure transparent and time-bound disposal of applications and intensify awareness at the grassroots, particularly in rural and remote areas, so that every deserving woman can access the benefits without inconvenience.
Appealing for community participation, Dr. Baljit Kaur urged Panchayats, elected representatives, Anganwadi workers and social organisations to help identify eligible women and encourage them to avail the scheme. She said the success of a welfare programme is measured not merely by funds released but by its ability to transform lives, adding that the Punjab Government remains committed to ensuring that the benefits of social security reach the women who need them the most.
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INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT PUNJAB
*South Korean Men's Hockey team receives Hearty & Rousing Punjabi Welcome at Mohali Airport with Dhol, Bhangra & Phulkaris*
*All 6 Participating Teams Arrive In Punjab For Asian Champions Trophy-2026*
*Punjab Govt Ensures World-Class Facilities & Hospitality For International Hockey Teams*
SAS NAGAR (MOHALI), 25th October 2026:
The South Korean men’s hockey team received a vibrant Punjabi welcome upon arriving at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali), completing the arrival of all six participating teams for the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament 2026. The players and support staff were greeted with the energetic beats of the dhol, spirited Bhangra performances by local artists and colourful Phulkaris, offering them a glimpse of Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and legendary hospitality.
The tournament, scheduled to be held from October 27 to November 5, 2026, at Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar and Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali, will bring together top Asian hockey teams for an exciting contest. The Punjab Government, led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, has made elaborate arrangements to ensure world-class infrastructure, seamless logistics and warm hospitality for all participating nations.
The South Korean contingent has arrived with a 20-member squad, including goalkeepers Kim Jaehyeon and Sohn Taemin. The squad also features Park Geonwoo, Jeong Junseong, Go Soung Hoon, Kim JaeHo, Son Dain, Kim Yong Bok, Chun Semin, Song JeongSeob, Yoo Hyoguk, Kong Yoonho, Om Junyoung, Kwon Yechan, Song Haeseong, Bae Soung Min, Han Sangjun, Kim DaeHyun, Choi Gajin and Kim Donggeon.
The State Government has put comprehensive arrangements in place for the teams’ accommodation, transportation, security and practice facilities to ensure a smooth and memorable experience throughout the tournament. The preparations reflect Punjab’s commitment to promoting international sporting events and providing athletes with facilities that meet the highest standards.
With all six participating teams now in Punjab, anticipation is building for the tournament, which is expected to deliver high-intensity hockey action and attract sports enthusiasts from across the country. Hosting the prestigious championship in Jalandhar and Mohali will further highlight Punjab’s enduring contribution to Indian hockey and strengthen its position as one of the country’s leading centres for the sport.
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