*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Welcomes Asian Champions Trophy Teams; Says Punjab’s Doors & Hearts Are Open For Them*
*Asian Champions Trophy Will Strengthen Punjab’s Position On International Sporting Map: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Punjab’s Rich Heritage, Sporting Potential & Spirit Of Brotherhood Will Win Hearts Of Visiting Teams: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
JALANDHAR; 28th October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday warmly welcomed the participating teams of the Asian Champions Trophy, inviting them to experience the state’s legendary hospitality, rich cultural heritage and spirit of brotherhood. Hosting a dinner in honour of the teams at the Chief Minister’s Residence (CMR), he said that Punjab is a land where every guest is welcomed with an open heart and treated like family, adding that the state is committed to making the international sporting event a memorable experience for every player and official.
Addressing the participating teams, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab is not merely a geographical territory; it is a land defined by sacrifice, courage, hard work, revolutionary fervour and humanity. Whenever the nation has needed courage, commitment and selfless service, the people of Punjab have always stood at the forefront.”
The Chief Minister said that Punjab is the sacred land of Gurus, saints, seers, poets and prophets whose teachings have inspired generations to uphold equality, compassion, brotherhood and justice. “The identity of Punjab is written in the blood of its martyrs, the sweat of its farmers, the courage of its soldiers and the warmth of its people. Our doors and hearts are always open for guests, and it is a matter of immense pride for us to welcome the participating teams to this historic land,” he added.
Highlighting Punjab’s contribution to India’s progress, the Chief Minister said that the state had played a pioneering role in the freedom struggle and the Green Revolution. He said that Punjab’s freedom fighters and martyrs made supreme sacrifices for the country’s independence, while its hardworking farmers helped make India self-reliant in food production.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state’s rich heritage, vibrant traditions, colourful festivals, soulful music, energetic folk dances and natural beauty make it a distinctive destination for visitors from across the world. He expressed confidence that the visiting players would return home with unforgettable memories of Punjab, its people and their affection.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to successfully hosting the international sporting event, the Chief Minister said that elaborate arrangements had been made to ensure the smooth, safe and hassle-free conduct of the tournament and the comfortable stay of all participating teams. “Our responsibility does not end with organising a world-class sporting event. We want every player, official and visitor to leave Punjab feeling that they have experienced something truly special. The affection they receive here should become a memory they cherish for a lifetime,” he said.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added that hosting the Asian Champions Trophy is a matter of immense pride for Punjab and a significant opportunity to strengthen the state’s presence on the international sporting landscape. He said that the championship would inspire young people to take up sports, promote fitness and discipline, and encourage emerging athletes to pursue excellence at national and international levels.
Emphasising the unifying power of sports, the Chief Minister said that sporting competitions transcend boundaries of language, culture and nationality, bringing people together through mutual respect, teamwork and a shared pursuit of excellence. “On the field, players compete against one another, but off the field, they become ambassadors of friendship and goodwill. I urge all participating teams to display the true spirit of sportsmanship and make this championship a celebration of sporting talent, friendship and mutual respect,” he said.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab believes in bringing people together and that the championship offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen bonds between nations through the universal language of sports. He added that the tournament would showcase Punjab’s cultural legacy, progressive outlook and immense sporting potential before an international audience.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that the international tournament would encourage greater global participation in sporting activities in Punjab and open new avenues for sports tourism and youth development. He said that the event would also demonstrate the state’s organisational capabilities and its ability to host major international sporting competitions.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to promoting sports and nurturing young talent, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab had a proud sporting legacy and that the state government was determined to provide athletes with better opportunities, infrastructure and platforms to excel.
He said that the Asian Champions Trophy was not merely a sporting competition but an opportunity to present Punjab’s cultural richness, sporting aspirations and enduring spirit of hospitality to the world.
The Chief Minister wished all participating teams the very best for the championship and expressed hope that their stay in Punjab would be filled with memorable experiences, sporting excellence and lasting friendships.
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On November 1, Women Will Again Receive ‘Toon-Toon’ of Sanman Rashi on Their Mobile Phones: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Our Govt's Intentions Are Clear, We're Returning Public Money to People: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Previous Govts Filled Their Own Treasuries with Public Money: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP, Akalis & Congress Are Threatening to Discontinue Free Pro-people Schemes: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Provided Over 70,000 Govt Jobs on Merit in 4.5 Years: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Earlier, Only Children of Rich Became Doctors & Engineers, Now Children from Poor Families Are Too: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Akalis Who Claimed They Would Rule for 25 Years Can't Even Gather 5 Supporters Today: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
NAKODAR; 28th October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday announced that women’s phones would “toon toon” (notification) again on November 1 as his government prepares to transfer the next instalment of the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, reaffirming his government’s commitment to returning public money directly to the people. Speaking during a Lok Milni programme at village Sarinh in Nakodar constituency of Jalandhar district, he said previous governments had filled their own treasuries with public money, while the BJP, Akalis and Congress were now threatening to discontinue pro-people schemes.
Highlighting his government’s record, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said over 70,000 government jobs had been provided on merit in 4.5 years and children from poor families were now becoming doctors and engineers. He said the people’s trust was the government’s real strength and reiterated his commitment to transforming Punjab into Rangla Punjab through improvements in education, healthcare, employment and corruption-free governance.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann posted on X: “Addressed a large gathering of people during a Lok Milni programme at village Sarinh in Nakodar constituency of Jalandhar district. The trust and love people have for us are our real strength. Previous governments of our opponents have only looted the people, but the sole objective of our government is to ensure all-round development of Punjab and provide people with a corruption-free administration. We are bringing major changes in education, healthcare and employment so that children from ordinary families can study, progress and become senior officers. As promised to the people of Punjab, we are working day and night to make ‘Rangla Punjab’.”
Addressing a massive Lok Milni gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated his government’s commitment to the welfare, dignity and economic empowerment of mothers and daughters across Punjab. He stated, “Our intentions are clear, and our policies are aimed at returning public money to the people through welfare-oriented and development-driven initiatives. Unlike previous governments that plundered public resources to serve their vested interests, our government is ensuring that the benefits of governance reach ordinary households.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised, “We believe that public money belongs to the people and must be spent on their welfare. On November 1, financial assistance will once again reach our mothers and sisters because their dignity, security and financial empowerment are priorities for our government. We are not doing anyone a favour; we are fulfilling our responsibility towards the people of Punjab.”
Taking a dig at the BJP, Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), he stated, “It is unfortunate that these parties are threatening to discontinue welfare schemes instead of appreciating initiatives that provide relief to ordinary families. The people of Punjab will never accept attempts to deprive them of the benefits they have begun receiving. The Congress and the BJP are playing a friendly match with the sole motive of dislodging me from office.”
The Chief Minister added, “The conspicuous absence of criticism of each other between these two parties exposes their political understanding and reveals their common discomfort with the growing empowerment of ordinary people. Their problem is not Bhagwant Singh Mann alone.”
“Their real problem is the rise of the common man because they cannot digest the fact that a person from an ordinary family is sitting in the Chief Minister’s chair and working relentlessly for every section of society. They want to remove me because our government has challenged the old system in which political power remained concentrated in the hands of a few influential families,” he asserted.
Expressing gratitude to those who attended the Lok Milni in large numbers, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The affection and confidence of the people strengthen my resolve to serve Punjab with greater dedication. I especially welcome the mothers and sisters who have set aside their daily responsibilities to attend this gathering. Every step they take to meet me gives me confidence and inspires me to work harder for you. I belong to the people, and I will always remain committed to their welfare.”
Referring to the 2027 Assembly elections, he stated, “The overwhelming response of the people reflects their confidence in our government’s work and their aspirations for Punjab’s future. The ultimate verdict will be delivered by the people through their votes.”
Highlighting his government’s employment record, the Chief Minister stated, “In over 4.5 years, we have provided 70,862 government jobs to young people, purely on merit and without favouritism. We have sought to replace the culture of recommendations and corruption with transparency and equal opportunities, enabling deserving candidates from ordinary families to secure government employment.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised, “Young people deserve opportunities, not false promises. We have worked to ensure that recruitment is based on merit rather than money, influence or political connections.”
The Chief Minister added, “Every deserving young person must have the confidence that hard work, and not proximity to powerful people, will determine their future. Our education reforms are transforming the aspirations and future of children from economically weaker families. When I took the oath of office in 2022, Punjab was ranked 27th in education. Since then, according to the assessment cited by the Union government, the state has achieved the number 1 position in primary education.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Teachers are being sent to Finland, Singapore and leading institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) to strengthen their teaching skills and introduce better educational practices. Schools of Eminence are providing students with improved learning environments and opportunities to pursue their ambitions. Red cards and blue cards alone cannot take a family out of poverty, but education can change the destiny of an entire generation.”
The Chief Minister further stated, “When children receive quality education, they gain the power to stand on their own feet and build a better future for their families. The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) results reflect this change. A total of 882 students from government schools qualified in the examination, compared with just 80 in 2021. This nearly eleven-fold increase reflects the progress being made in strengthening government education.”
He emphasised, “Today, the children of rickshaw pullers, small shopkeepers and vegetable vendors are clearing prestigious examinations such as NEET. Earlier, the opportunity to become a doctor or engineer was often limited by a family’s financial circumstances.”
The Chief Minister added, “Now, children from humble backgrounds are proving that talent is not the privilege of the rich. This is the real change we wanted to bring to Punjab. Nearly 90 per cent of households in Punjab are benefiting from our free electricity scheme, providing substantial relief to families struggling with rising household expenses. Our government is committed to ensuring that public funds translate into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens rather than being used to serve the interests of political elites.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “When a household receives a zero electricity bill, the money that would otherwise have been spent on electricity can be used for a child’s education, medicines or other essential needs. For an ordinary family, this relief makes a real difference. Our government believes that development must be measured by the improvement it brings to people’s everyday lives.”
The Chief Minister also urged eligible families who had not yet enrolled under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana to obtain their health cards, adding, “Health cards have already been made for around 54 lakh families.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted, “The objective of the government is to ensure that financial hardship never prevents a family from seeking medical treatment. No parent should have to worry about how to pay for a loved one’s treatment. Healthcare and dignity must reach every household.”
Emphasising the importance of agriculture to Punjab’s economy, he stated, “Our government is strengthening irrigation infrastructure to ensure that water reaches farmers’ fields through canals and pipelines. Approximately 14,000 kilometres of pipelines have been laid, and 18,000 cusecs of water are being delivered to agricultural fields through the irrigation network. Improved access to irrigation will reduce dependence on groundwater and help farmers secure more reliable water supplies.”
The Chief Minister emphasised, “Punjab’s farmers have fed the nation through their sweat and hard work. They deserve a government that stands firmly with them. Our government is working to take water to fields and strengthen the state’s irrigation network so that farmers can benefit from improved facilities.”
The Chief Minister also called out previous governments of failing to adequately protect Punjab’s water interests, asserting, “Safeguarding the state’s rightful resources remains a priority.”
Taking a sharp dig at the Akali leadership, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Those who once claimed they would rule Punjab for 25 years are now struggling to mobilise public support.” The Chief Minister criticised the party’s changing political positions and questioned its efforts to pursue an alliance with the BJP after previously accusing the party of being anti-farmer. He further called out previous political leaders of allowing public resources and economic opportunities to be captured by powerful interests.
He continued, “The people of Punjab want accountable governance, transparent administration and opportunities for ordinary citizens, not a return to the old political order. The people of Punjab have seen enough governments that served their own interests. They have seen the politics of promises, influence and privilege. Today, they want results, accountability and a government that understands their problems because it comes from among them.”
Criticising the Congress for its internal divisions, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The opposition parties are more concerned about political manoeuvring and leadership struggles than presenting a credible vision for Punjab.”
The Chief Minister emphasised, “My humble background has enabled me to understand the challenges faced by ordinary families, particularly those living in villages and working hard to secure a better future for their children. I have lived an ordinary life, worked in the fields and experienced the realities of rural Punjab. I know what it means for a family to struggle to educate its children and meet its daily expenses. Perhaps this is what troubles those who cannot accept that a common person has reached the Chief Minister’s chair.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The affection of the people, the blessings of mothers and sisters, and the smiles returning to ordinary households are my greatest sources of strength. The difference between my government and the opposition is reflected in our respective approaches to public welfare. On one side is the love of Punjab’s people, who bless me and place their trust in me. On the other are those who have repeatedly put political power and personal interests first.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “I will continue to stand with the people who have entrusted me with this responsibility, and I will work every day to honour their trust.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann reiterated, “Our government will continue to focus on women’s empowerment, employment, education, healthcare, affordable electricity and irrigation. The future of Punjab must be shaped by the aspirations of its people. I am confident that the people will judge political parties by their work and their commitment to Punjab, rather than by political rhetoric or attempts to undermine a government working for ordinary citizens.”
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*DAY 281 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 587 RAIDS; 235 HELD*
*— POLICE TEAMS ALSO TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST 209 INDIVIDUALS*
*— PEOPLE CAN ANONYMOUSLY REPORT GANGSTER-RELATED INFORMATION VIA ANTI-GANGSTER HELPLINE NUMBER 93946-93946*
*— 147 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD WITH 20.2KG HEROIN ON DAY 606 OF YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH*
CHANDIGARH, October 28:
As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 281st day, Punjab Police today conducted 587 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 281, Police teams arrested 235 individuals held with five weapons, taking the total arrests to 81,311 since the launch of the campaign.
Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 209 persons. Police teams have also arrested nine 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 606th day with 147 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 20.2 kg heroin, 565 intoxicant pills and Rs 6550 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 88,979 in just 606 days.
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*INFORMATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT*
*GOVERNMENT OF STATE OF PUNJAB*
*Bhagwant Mann Govt Distributes Appointment Letters to 9 Candidates on Compassionate Grounds in Transport Department*
*Compassionate Appointments to Provide Financial Stability to Families of Deceased Employees: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Bhagwant Mann Govt Committed to Supporting Families of Deceased Employees & Securing Their Livelihoods: Harpal Singh Cheema*
*Minister Harpal Singh Cheema Directs Officials to Expedite Process for Resolving Contractual & Outsourced Employees’ Demands*
CHANDIGARH; 28th October 2026:
Finance and Transport Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday distributed appointment letters to 9 candidates selected for various Group C posts on compassionate grounds in the Transport Department, Punjab. The letters were handed over by the Cabinet Minister in the presence of Director Transport Rajiv Kumar Gupta and Managing Director of PRTC Patiala Manisha Rana.
Minister Harpal Singh Cheema congratulated the newly appointed candidates and encouraged them to discharge their duties with complete dedication, honesty, and professionalism to serve the public effectively.
Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasised, “The compassionate appointment initiative aims to provide immediate financial support and stability to the families of deceased department employees.”
The newly appointed candidates expressed their profound gratitude to the Bhagwant Mann government for completing the recruitment formalities smoothly and providing them with a secure livelihood.
Meanwhile, Minister Harpal Singh Cheema who is also Chairman of Cabinet Sub Committee formed to resolve employees' issues held meetings with leaders of the Theka Mulazim Sangharsh Morcha, Punjab including Balihar Singh, Resham Singh, Sher Singh, Jagroop Singh, and Gurvinder Singh Pannu, along with Kuljit Singh Lohka, President of the Outsourced Employees Federation Punjab.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema assured the delegation, “All your legitimate demands would be fulfilled shortly.” He further directed the concerned departmental officers to expedite the ongoing process to ensure timely resolution.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab.
*GURMEET SINGH KHUDIAN ROLLS OUT RED CARPET FOR UK INVESTMENT; PITCHES VERKA, FIVE RIVERS FOR GLOBAL LEAP*
*• Khudian holds deliberations with British delegation led by Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio to explore collaboration in organic farming, dairy and crop residue management*
*•Punjab leads in kinnow, carrot, seed potato production; tops country in milk availability at 1.28 litres/day, says Khudian*
*• Food Processing Minister assures end-to-end facilitation & full support to British delegation*
CHANDIGARH, OCTOBER 28:
Making a strong pitch to transform Punjab from India's food basket into a global food processing hub, Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Food Processing Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian today rolled out the red carpet for British investment in organic farming, pack-houses, cold chains and dairy technology to take homegrown brands like Verka and Five Rivers to the UK market.
The Agriculture Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, along with Principal Secretary Food Processing Ms. Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, held threadbare deliberations here at Kisan Bhawan with a British delegation comprising Ms Alba Smeriglio, British Deputy High Commissioner, Chandigarh, Dr Nicholas Gribit, First Secretary Trade, British High Commission, and Mr Anup Narayan, Senior Trade Adviser, to deepen bilateral cooperation in organic farming, dairy, crop residue management and quality certification other sectors.
Welcoming the delegation, S. Khudian said the welfare of Punjab's farmers will remain the cornerstone of any international partnership and assured full support from the state government for collaborations.
Underlining Punjab's pivotal role as India's food basket- spanning wheat, basmati rice, kinnow, peers, litchi, milk and dairy products, seed potatoes and carrots- the Agriculture Minister said the state offers a thriving food processing ecosystem. Home to global giants like Nestlé (Moga), Hindustan Unilever, ITC and Amul alongside homegrown brands such as Cremica, Verka, Sohna and Five Rivers (PAGREXCO), Punjab now aims to move up the value chain from raw produce supply to processing, packaging and branding within the state, he added.
“Punjab brings a strong agricultural base, established processing capabilities, recognised brands and a growing pool of innovative enterprises. Punjab ranked 1st in kinnow, carrot and disease-free seed potato production, 2nd in pears and 3rd in peas and honey, while topping the country in per capita milk availability at 1.28 litres per day. We see scope to connect these strengths with UK market demand, technology, investment and expertise, creating value for businesses while strengthening opportunities for farmers and food-processing enterprises,” he said.
Highlighting the state's economic muscle, S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian noted that agriculture and allied activities contribute 27% to Punjab's Gross State Value Addition (GSVA), while food processing alone accounts for 8% of registered factories and 26.68% of the state's registered manufacturing GSVA. Punjab contributes 47% of wheat and 37% of rice to the central pool. The ecosystem is backed by 3,292 registered food processing factories, 151 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), 3,750 micro-enterprises under the PMFME scheme, three Mega Food Parks, 1.2 million MT cold storage capacity and four NABL-accredited food testing laboratories, he added.
Outlining investment opportunities, S. Khudian highlighted technology transfer and brand collaboration, citing state-backed brands Verka and Five Rivers as win-win models where Punjab's processing strengths can leverage UK technology and market access. Invest Punjab will provide end-to-end facilitation to UK investors, he said.
The Minister invited UK collaboration for shared infrastructure including pack-houses and pre-cooling facilities, cold-chain connectivity, technology transfer for modern processing equipment and product innovation in value-added uses of kinnow peels and by-products. Kinnow juice concentrate, honey, dairy products including butter, cheese and SMP, and ready-to-eat items like canned kidney beans have been identified as potential exports to the UK market.
On the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Ms. Rakhee Gupta Bhandari said it offers Punjab zero-duty access on 99% of UK tariff lines for processed foods, basmati, spices, honey, pickles and kinnow products, while protecting sensitive sectors like dairy and cereals to safeguard local farmers.
“Zero tariffs open the door, meeting UK quality and food-safety standards is how we walk through it and that is where partnership with the UK can help most,” she said.
Additional Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Latif Ahmed, Joint Secretary Punjab Mandi Board Harjit Singh Sandhu, Director Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Gurjit Singh Brar, Director Animal Husbandry Paramdeep Singh Walia, PAU Director (Research) Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt and other senior officials were also present in the meeting.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*Tarunpreet Singh Sond Assures Time-Bound Resolution of MGNREGA Union’s Demands*
*Mann Government Committed to Resolving All Genuine Demands of Employee Unions: Tarunpreet Singh Sond*
Chandigarh/Khanna, October 28:
Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Mr. Tarunpreet Singh Sond on Wednesday assured representatives of the MGNREGA Karamchari Union that their genuine demands would be examined and addressed on a priority basis to ensure their time-bound resolution.
During a meeting with the union representatives at Khanna, Mr. Sond gave a patient hearing to their concerns and demands and assured them that Mann government would make every possible effort to resolve their pending issues in a timely manner.
Acknowledging the significant role played by MGNREGA employees in implementing MGNREGA and now, VB G RAM G as well and ensuring the effective delivery of government schemes at the grassroots level, the Minister said their contribution was vital to strengthening rural infrastructure and improving the lives of people in villages across Punjab.
Mr. Sond said that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, is firmly committed to safeguarding the interests of government employees and ensuring their welfare. He emphasized that the government believed in transparent, employee-friendly and accountable governance and was making consistent efforts to address the genuine concerns of its workforce.
Highlighting the people-centric approach of the state government, the Minister said that the Mann government was working tirelessly for the welfare of all sections of society, including farmers, labourers, youth, women, government employees and rural communities. He added that the government remained committed to promoting inclusive growth, strengthening rural governance, expanding employment opportunities and ensuring efficient delivery of citizen-centric services across the state.
The Minister further assured the delegation that all issues raised during the meeting would be examined thoroughly and taken up with the concerned departments for appropriate action within a stipulated timeframe. He added that matters involving policy decisions or financial implications would be discussed with the Finance Department to explore feasible and sustainable solutions.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to employee welfare, Mr. Sond said that the state government would continue to engage constructively with employee unions and work towards resolving their genuine demands in a fair, transparent and time-bound manner.
President MGNREGA Karamchari Union Sewak Singh, Chairman Amandeep Kumar, Finance Secretary Ramandeep Singh, Harwinder Singh, Bunty Bains, Kishore Kumar and Jagdev Singh were present in the meeting.
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*OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ELECTORAL OFFICER, PUNJAB*
*District preparedness reviewed on Day-2 of poll review for Punjab Assembly Elections*
*Chandigarh, October 28:*
On the second day of the comprehensive review of poll preparedness for the upcoming Vidhan Sabha Elections, an exhaustive district-wise review was undertaken by the delegation from the Election Commission of India comprising Sh. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Senior Deputy Election Commissioner, Sh. Bhanu Prakash Yeturu, Deputy Election Commissioner, Smt. Seema Khanna, Director General (IT) and Sh. Ashish Goyal, Director General (Media).
The delegation held detailed interactions with all 23 District Election Officers, Commissioners of Police and Senior Superintendents of Police, who made detailed presentations apprising about the status of preparedness in their respective districts.
The officials emphasized on strict compliance with ECI instructions, transparency in all processes, timely completion of all pre-poll activities, and robust enforcement measures.
CEO, Punjab assured the senior officials that all tasks related to the upcoming elections will be performed diligently, in a time-bound manner and strictly as per the instructions of the Hon'ble Commission to ensure free, fair, transparent and inclusive elections in the State.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*No Child Should Feel Alone: Punjab Government Extends ₹254.44 Crore Support to Dependent Children till September — Dr. Baljit Kaur*
*Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is building a compassionate ‘Rangla Punjab’ where every child gets care, dignity and opportunities to flourish*
*₹432.78 crore budget provision for 2026-27; financial assistance provided to 2.43 lakh dependent and orphan children till September*
*Government’s child-centric approach ensures security, education support and a brighter future for children facing difficult circumstances: Dr. Baljit Kaur*
Chandigarh, October 28:
Reaffirming its commitment towards protecting childhood and securing the future of vulnerable children, the Punjab Government is continuously strengthening its social security initiatives to ensure that no child is left behind. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the state government has released ₹254.44 crore financial assistance till September 2026 under the Financial Assistance Scheme for Dependent Children, benefiting around 2.43 lakh children across Punjab.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that every child deserves affection, care, dignity and a fair opportunity to achieve their dreams. Guided by the vision of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is working with sensitivity and commitment to create an inclusive society where children facing hardships receive timely support and a sense of security.
She said that this initiative reflects the spirit of ‘Rangla Punjab’, where the happiness, safety and holistic development of children remain among the foremost priorities of the government. The aim is to provide a supportive environment so that difficult circumstances do not become a barrier in a child’s education, growth and aspirations.
The Cabinet Minister informed that the Financial Assistance Scheme for Dependent Children covers children below the age of 21 years whose both parents have passed away, both parents are missing, or parents are unable to take care of them due to physical or mental disability. The scheme is also applicable to eligible families having an annual income of ₹60,000 or less.
She further informed that a budget provision of ₹432.78 crore has been made for the financial year 2026-27, out of which ₹254.44 crore has already been spent up to September 2026 for providing financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries. The assistance is helping children fulfil their basic needs, continue their education and move towards a secure future.
Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that the Punjab Government remains committed to strengthening child welfare measures and ensuring that every child receives care, protection and equal opportunities to realise their potential. She said that the government will continue working with compassion and dedication to make Punjab a more inclusive and child-friendly state.
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VIGILANCE BUREAU PUNJAB
*Vigilance Bureau nabs Inspector Municipal Corporation red handed accepting bribe of Rs 25,000/-*
Chandigarh, 28 October 2026:
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has apprehended Inspector Shubham posted at Municipal Corporation Zone-B Ludhiana, red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs 25,000/-.
Disclosing this here today, an official spokesperson of the state VB said the above-mentioned accused has been arrested based on a complaint lodged by a resident of Ajit Nagar, Ludhiana.
He stated that the complainant alleged that after the death of his father, documents for transferring the ancestral property in his and his brothers' names were submitted at the Municipal Corporation Zone-B, Ludhiana, which were marked to the concerned Inspector Shubham, Municipal Corporation Zone-B, Ludhiana. Inspector Shubham demanded Rs. 25,000/- as bribe for transferring the ancestral property in the name of the complainant and his brothers.
Unwilling to pay the illegal gratification, complainant approached the VB Range Ludhiana. Acting on his complaint, the VB team laid a trap during which accused Inspector Shubham was arrested red handed while accepting bribe money of Rs 25,000/- from the complainant in presence of two official witnesses.
In this regard, a case under prevention of corruption act has been registered against the accused at VB police station Ludhiana and further investigation into this case is under progress.
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