*Every Playground In Punjab Is Strong Blow Against Drugs, Step Towards Securing Future Of Youth: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*₹67.16 Lakh Sports Ground Equipped With Modern Facilities Dedicated To Youth, Govt Committed To Providing World-Class Sports Infrastructure In Villages: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Bhagwant Mann Govt Turning Playgrounds Into Centres Of Hope, Discipline & Positive Energy To Build Drug-Free Punjab*
*Our Goal Is To Put Sports Equipment In Hands Of Youth Instead Of Letting Them Fall Into Trap Of Drugs: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
SANGRUR, 31st October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said that the state government has transformed sports into a powerful weapon in its decisive battle against drugs, with playgrounds emerging as centres of hope, discipline and positive energy for the younger generation. Dedicating a newly constructed sports ground to the people, he said that the government is committed to building a healthy, confident and drug-free Punjab by providing youngsters with world-class sporting facilities at the grassroots level.
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “The fight against drugs cannot be won through enforcement alone and requires a sustained social movement in which sports play a pivotal role. The government is determined to channelise the energy of youngsters towards sports, fitness and constructive activities so that they become active partners in building a progressive Punjab.
The Chief Minister stated, “We firmly believe that every village must have a good school for education and a well-equipped playground for sports. Our objective is to ensure that youngsters hold sports equipment in their hands instead of falling into the trap of drugs.”
He pointed out that access to quality education and proper sporting facilities enables children to bring laurels to their villages, state and country at national and international levels. The newly constructed playground has been developed at a cost of ₹67.16 lakh, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure in rural areas.
The Chief Minister said that the modern facility is equipped with a volleyball court, football ground, six-lane 400-metre running track, cricket pitch, chain-link fencing, boundary wall and other essential amenities. These facilities will provide budding sportspersons with an excellent platform to hone their skills, pursue their ambitions and compete at higher levels. “This playground will serve as a beacon of hope for emerging players and provide them with the opportunity to transform their sporting aspirations into reality,” he added.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that playgrounds are not merely spaces for sporting activities but vibrant centres of social interaction, unity and brotherhood. They bring communities together while instilling values of teamwork, discipline and mutual respect among youngsters. “Our objective is not merely to construct playgrounds but to build a healthy, confident and drug-free generation. Every playground that comes up in Punjab is a strong blow against the drug menace and a step towards securing the future of our youth,” the Chief Minister said.
He said that through the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’, the state government is making concerted efforts to ensure that sports become an integral part of the lives of youngsters. The government is equally committed to providing world-class infrastructure in education and sports so that rural talent does not suffer due to a lack of opportunities or facilities.
The Chief Minister said that Punjab has a glorious sporting legacy and the government is determined to restore its position as the country’s leading sporting powerhouse. Every talented child, irrespective of economic background or geographical location, must get equal opportunities and access to quality sporting infrastructure. “Investment in playgrounds is an investment in the health, character and future of our younger generation. A healthy body and a strong mind are the foundations of a prosperous society,” he said.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated playground would emerge as a hub of sporting activities and inspire more youngsters to embrace sports. He said that the government is leaving no stone unturned to provide the necessary infrastructure to achieve its vision of a healthy, progressive and drug-free Punjab.
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*Punjab’s Youth To Get Jobs In BBMB As Bhagwant Mann Govt Approves Service Rules For Separate 2,452-Post Cadre, Secures State’s Rightful Share*
*Punjab’s 40% Financial Contribution To BBMB Must Be Matched By Fair Representation Of Its Employees*
CHANDIGARH; 31st October 2026:
In a major decision aimed at safeguarding Punjab’s rightful representation in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and creating new employment opportunities for the youth, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday approved the formation of Departmental Service Rules for the newly created separate cadre of employees to be posted in BBMB.
A decision to this effect was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by the Chief Minister.
Disclosing this, the Chief Minister’s Office said, “Under the provisions of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, the Bhakra Beas Management Board was constituted as a legal entity to regulate projects relating to the Bhakra and Beas dams in Punjab. The partner states, including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan, send their officers and employees on deputation to various posts in the Board.”
However, despite having a fixed quota for different posts, Punjab’s share of positions in BBMB has frequently remained vacant, allowing employees from other states to be posted against these vacancies.
Punjab contributes 40% of the Board’s finances, irrespective of the number of employees posted against its allocated share. This situation has necessitated the creation of a separate cadre to ensure adequate representation of Punjab’s employees in the Board.
Pertinently, during the Council of Ministers meeting held on November 15, 2025, approval was granted for creating a special cadre comprising 2,452 posts for BBMB.
The recruitment rules and other conditions of service for appointments against these posts have already been framed. With the Cabinet’s latest approval of the Departmental Service Rules, the process of direct recruitment to these posts can now be initiated.
This decision will open up substantial employment opportunities for the youth of Punjab while ensuring that the state’s rightful representation in BBMB is protected and strengthened.
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*People Will Give AAP Another Opportunity To Continue Punjab’s Development: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Roads, Schools, Sewage Systems & Other Development Works Are Being Undertaken In Every Village Due To Our Good Intentions: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*We’ve Provided 70,000 Govt Jobs & Generated Over 6 Lakh Additional Employment Opportunities By Bringing Investment To Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*While Sports Grounds Are Coming Up In Villages, Ludhiana Is Hosting Asian Hockey Championship: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*BJP, Congress And Akali Dal Cannot Be Trusted; They Have Only Looted Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Akali Dal Is Eager To Ally With BJP, Which Was Responsible For Deaths Of 750 Farmers During Farmers’ Protest At Delhi Borders: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*If Akali Dal & BJP Join Hands, People Of Punjab Will Ensure Their Candidates Lose Their Security Deposits: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Interacts With People At Lok Milni After Inaugurating Sports Ground In Moran Village Of Sangrur*
SANGRUR, 31st October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday tore into the Akali Dal-BJP, and Congress, pointing out that the traditional parties have looted Punjab and betrayed its people, while asserting that the AAP Government’s record of development, employment generation and clean governance would earn it another mandate. During a massive gathering at a Lok Milni in Moran village of Dirba constituency in Sangrur after inaugurating a sports ground, the Chief Minister said his government is transforming Punjab through roads, schools, sewerage infrastructure, sports facilities and employment opportunities, rather than indulging in the politics of exploitation practised by previous governments.
Announcing ₹51 lakh for development works in the village, the Chief Minister also took aim at the Akali Dal’s eagerness to forge an alliance with the BJP, recalling the deaths of 750 farmers during the farmers’ protest at Delhi’s borders and warning that any such political reunion would face the verdict of Punjab’s people. He asserted that the people’s trust and support remained his government’s greatest strength and reiterated his commitment to restoring Punjab’s glory as ‘Rangla Punjab’.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Today, I addressed a massive gathering at the ‘Lok Milni’ in Moran village of Dirba constituency. I also handed over a cheque of ₹51 lakh for the village’s development works. Your love and trust are our greatest strength. Unlike the traditional parties that indulged in loot and plunder, our aim is to ensure clean governance and the progress of Punjab. We are bringing transformative changes in education and employment so that sons and daughters from ordinary families can receive quality education and rise to become senior officers.bWe remain fully committed to our promise of restoring Punjab’s glory and making it ‘Rangla Punjab’ once again.”
Addressing a massive gathering after inaugurating a newly constructed sports ground, the Chief Minister said, “Development is now visible in every village, from roads and schools to sewerage facilities and sports infrastructure. He also handed over a cheque of ₹51 lakh for development works in the village, reiterating that the people’s love and trust remained his greatest strength.”
The Chief Minister pointed out, “Unlike the traditional parties that indulged in loot and plunder, our government’s objective is clean governance and the progress of Punjab. Our honest intentions are reflected in the work being carried out across the state. Roads are being constructed, schools are being transformed, sewerage facilities are being strengthened and essential infrastructure is reaching villages. We are not merely making announcements; we are delivering on our commitments. The people’s money belongs to the people, and every penny of the state exchequer is being judiciously utilised for their welfare.”
Highlighting the employment achievements, the Chief Minister said, “We have provided more than 70,000 government jobs to eligible youth without corruption and have generated over six lakh additional employment opportunities by bringing investment into Punjab. Our aim is to ensure that the sons and daughters of ordinary families get quality education, secure good jobs and rise to become senior officers. The youth should not be forced to leave their homeland in search of opportunities. We are creating an environment where they can build a prosperous future in Punjab itself.”
Speaking about the expansion of sporting infrastructure, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab was witnessing a new sporting revolution, with modern playgrounds being developed in villages alongside the hosting of international sporting events. “On one hand, we are constructing 3,100 sports grounds across Punjab to channelise the energy of our youth towards sports and keep them away from drugs; on the other, Ludhiana is hosting the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Championship. This reflects our vision of making Punjab a leading sporting destination and providing our players with world-class opportunities. We want our youth to excel in sports and bring laurels to the state,” he said.
Launching a sharp attack on the BJP, Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal, the Chief Minister said that these traditional parties had governed Punjab for decades but had failed to safeguard its interests. “The BJP, Congress and Akali Dal cannot be trusted because they have only exploited Punjab for their political interests. They had decades to address the problems of the people, but their governments were more concerned about power and vested interests. The people of Punjab have not forgotten their record and will hold them accountable for what they have done to the state,” he said.
Taking a dig at the Akali Dal over its efforts to forge an alliance with the BJP, the Chief Minister said that, “The Akali Dal is eager to join hands with the BJP, the same party that was in power at the Centre when farmers were protesting against the three contentious farm laws at Delhi’s borders. As many as 750 farmers lost their lives during this historic agitation. It is unfortunate that a party which claims to represent the interests of Punjab’s farmers is now keen to align with the BJP. If the Akali Dal and BJP come together, the people of Punjab will reject them at the hustings and ensure that their candidates lose their security deposits.”
The Chief Minister said that his government is ensuring that the benefits of governance reached every household, particularly through free electricity, improved infrastructure and public services. “More than 90% of households in Punjab are receiving free electricity. Even farmers are now getting electricity during the daytime, which is an unprecedented change. Our government has also closed toll plazas, saving commuters around ₹70 lakh every day. We are improving roads, strengthening public infrastructure and providing quality education and healthcare. The money collected from the people is being returned to them through schools, hospitals, roads and other development works,” he said.
Emphasising the government’s commitment to rural development, he said that grants were being provided to villages to undertake essential infrastructure projects. “Our government is working tirelessly to improve the quality of life in villages. Development should not remain confined to cities; every village deserves better roads, schools, sewerage facilities, playgrounds and other basic amenities. The ₹51 lakh grant being provided for development works in Moran village is part of our commitment to strengthening rural infrastructure and ensuring balanced development across Punjab,” he said.
Highlighting the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the Chief Minister said that the state government had taken a historic step towards providing comprehensive healthcare coverage to every resident family. “Under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, every resident family in Punjab is entitled to cashless medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that no family is forced to compromise on medical treatment because of financial constraints. Punjab has taken a significant step towards universal healthcare by bringing comprehensive medical coverage within the reach of its people. The scheme will substantially ease the financial burden on families and ensure access to quality healthcare,” he said.
Speaking about the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, he said that the scheme would provide monthly financial assistance directly into the bank accounts of eligible women. “Under the Maavan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, every woman beneficiary above the age of 18 years will receive ₹1,000 per month if they belong to and ₹1,500 per month in the case of Scheduled Caste women. The assistance will be transferred directly into their bank accounts, and women already receiving social security pensions will also be eligible. Nearly 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit from this initiative, for which the state government has earmarked ₹9,300 crore,” he said.
Underscoring the importance of education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that quality education was the most effective instrument for eliminating poverty and empowering ordinary families. “No freebie or concession card can eliminate poverty and social inequalities. Education is the real key that can transform lives, raise living standards and empower the common man. This is why our government is making sustained efforts to improve the quality of education in government schools. Through teacher training programmes, Schools of Eminence and other reforms, we are ensuring that children from ordinary families receive opportunities comparable to those available in the best institutions,” he said.
Citing the improvement in NEET results, the Chief Minister said that the performance of government school students reflected the impact of the education reforms undertaken by his government. “In 2021, only 80 students from government schools had cleared the NEET examination. In 2026, this number has increased more than elevenfold to 882. This is the difference that focused investment and sincere efforts in education can make. Our children are proving that talent is not limited to privileged families and that government schools can prepare students to succeed in the most competitive examinations,” he said.
Highlighting the expansion of canal irrigation, the Chief Minister said that his government had ensured that water reached agricultural fields in villages which had never received canal irrigation facilities earlier. “For the first time in Punjab’s history, canal water has reached the fields of 1,587 villages that had never received this facility. Our government has spent ₹7,200 crore to strengthen the canal network and ensure that water reaches every field. The area under canal irrigation has increased from 26% to more than 80% since we assumed office. In 2022, only 20.89 lakh acres received canal water, whereas today the coverage has expanded to 60.30 lakh acres,” he said.
He further said that nearly 45,000 kilometres of roads were being renovated and upgraded to improve connectivity and facilitate residents across the state.
Reiterating his commitment to the people of Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that he drew his strength from their love and trust and remained dedicated to safeguarding their rights, dignity and future. “I am seeking the trust of the people because I want to serve them. My strength comes from the people of Punjab, not from any position of power. As long as I have their support, I will continue working for their rights, dignity and the future of the next generation. We are fully committed to our promise of making Punjab ‘Rangla Punjab’ once again. The welfare of every household and the progress of every village will remain at the centre of our decisions,” he said.
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*Buddha Nullah’s Pollution To Be Tackled With Permanent Solution, No Compromise On People’s Right To Clean Water & Healthy Environment: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*High-Level Committee Constituted Under MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, Asked To Submit Comprehensive Report Within 15 Days: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
*Our Govt Determined To Restore Buddha Nullah’s Pristine Glory, All Stakeholders To Work Together To Eliminate Pollution: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*
CHANDIGARH; 31st October 2026:
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday asserted that his government will not allow public health and the environment to be held hostage to pollution, declaring that finding a permanent solution to the long-pending problem of Buddha Nullah in Ludhiana is among the government’s top priorities. Announcing a special high-level committee under the leadership of environmentalist and Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, the Chief Minister directed it to submit a comprehensive report within 15 days to ensure concrete and time-bound action to restore the historic water body.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review the prevailing situation of Buddha Nullah, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the government is determined to free this historic water body from pollution and restore its pristine glory. He said, “The people of Punjab have every right to clean water and a pollution-free environment. These are not privileges but fundamental rights of every citizen, and no compromise will be made on them. The government will not allow the health of people and the environment to be held hostage to pollution.”
Taking a decisive step towards resolving the long-standing issue, the Chief Minister announced the constitution of a special high-level committee comprising environmentalist and Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, Secretary Local Government, representatives of the Industries Department, Punjab Pollution Control Board, Ludhiana Police, two representatives of the Dairy Complex and other concerned stakeholders.
Directing the committee to submit its comprehensive report within 15 days, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The problem of Buddha Nullah cannot be resolved through temporary measures or superficial interventions. It requires a comprehensive, coordinated and permanent solution backed by strong political will. The committee must hold detailed consultations with local residents, industrialists, representatives of the dairy sector and administrative officials to examine every aspect of the problem and recommend concrete measures.”
The Chief Minister said that the people of Punjab cannot be made to pay the price for pollution caused by irresponsible practices. He said that the contamination of Buddha Nullah has serious implications for public health and the environment, making its restoration an urgent priority for Ludhiana and surrounding areas.
Emphasising the government’s commitment to addressing the issue in a time-bound manner, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Government departments, industrial units and all other stakeholders must work together to ensure that untreated waste and pollution do not enter our water bodies. The committee must go beyond merely identifying the problems and recommend practical, implementable and time-bound measures that can deliver a lasting solution.”
Reiterating his government’s commitment to transforming Punjab into a clean, green and healthy state, the Chief Minister said that protecting water resources is not merely the responsibility of the government but a collective obligation towards future generations.
During the meeting, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann held detailed discussions with senior administrative officers regarding the present condition of Buddha Nullah and the measures required to eliminate pollution and restore the water body.
Rajya Sabha MP Baba Balbir Singh Seechewal, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, CMD Powercom Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary Water Resources Krishan Kumar, Secretary Environment and Science and Technology K.K. Yadav, Secretary Local Government Ghanshyam Thori, Secretary Agriculture Arshdeep Singh Thind, Deputy Commissioner Ludhiana Himanshu Jain, Commissioner of Police Ludhiana Swapan Sharma and other senior officials were also present.
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*Under Leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Cabinet Gives Major Relief to Patwaris & Kanungos; Restores District-Level Cadre to Ensure Administrative Efficiency*
*New Grain Market to Come Up at Lehragaga; Bhagwant Mann Cabinet Approves Transfer of 217 Kanals of Land to Punjab Mandi Board*
*Under Leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Cabinet Approves Three Labour Code Rules to Strengthen Workers’ Rights & Social Security*
*Mohali to Get Wet Waste-Based CBG Project; Move to Promote Clean & Green Urban Environment*
CHANDIGARH; 31st October 2026:
The Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday took a series of significant decisions aimed at strengthening administrative efficiency, improving agricultural infrastructure, safeguarding workers’ welfare and promoting a cleaner urban environment. The Council of Ministers, in a meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, approved amendments to the service rules governing Revenue Patwaris and Kanungos, paving the way for restoration of their district-level cadre. The Cabinet also approved the establishment of a new grain market at Lehragaga, three sets of labour-related rules and a wet waste-based Compressed Biogas (CBG) project for the Mohali cluster.
*Restoration of District-Level Cadre of Patwaris and Kanungos*
The Cabinet gave its approval to the Punjab Revenue Patwaris (Group C) Service (Amendment) Rules, 2026 and the Punjab Revenue Kanungos (Group C) Service (Amendment) Rules, 2026.
In a statement, the Chief Minister’s Office said that the Department of Revenue had framed the Punjab Revenue Patwaris (Group C) Service Rules, 2023, reducing the training period of Patwaris from one-and-a-half years to one year while retaining the district-level cadre structure and the District Collector as the appointing authority.
However, through an amendment notified on March 14, 2024, the appointing authority was changed from the District Collector to the Director of Land Records, Punjab.
Subsequently, an exercise was undertaken to prepare a common state-wide seniority list by merging district-level seniority lists. This exercise gave rise to several legal challenges and administrative anomalies, particularly concerning Patwaris who had opted for voluntary inter-district transfers on the explicit condition of forfeiting their seniority. The state-wide seniority list negated the effect of such forfeiture, creating complications in cadre management.
To overcome these anomalies, remove the administrative deadlock and ensure greater efficiency in the functioning of the Revenue Department, the Cabinet decided to restore the district-level cadre of Patwaris as an administrative reform measure.
Under the amended rules, the District Collector will be the appointing authority for Patwaris and Kanungos at the district level, while their seniority lists will also be maintained by the respective District Collectors. The amendments bring the framework in line with the earlier Punjab Revenue Patwaris (Group C) Service Rules, 2023 and Punjab Kanungos (Class III) Service Rules, 1994.
*Paves Way for Establishment of New Grain Market at Lehragaga*
In another significant decision, the Cabinet approved the transfer of 217 Kanals and 14 Marlas of government-owned land situated at Village Khandebad, Tehsil Lehragaga, District Sangrur, from the Department of Revenue, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management to the Punjab Mandi Board for establishing a new grain market.
The land will be transferred at the Collector Rate of ₹15 lakh per acre, involving a total consideration of ₹4.08 crore.
The proposed grain market is expected to provide better marketing infrastructure and substantial convenience to farmers and the common people of the region.
*Approves Three Labour Code Rules*
The Cabinet also approved three important sets of rules aimed at strengthening the implementation of labour welfare and social security provisions in Punjab.
These include the Code on Wages (Punjab) Rules, 2026, framed under the Code on Wages, 2019; the Punjab Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Rules, 2026, framed under the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020; and the Punjab Social Security Rules, 2026, framed under the Code on Social Security, 2020.
The approvals will provide the requisite state-level regulatory framework for implementing these labour codes in Punjab.
*Mohali to Get Wet Waste-Based Compressed Biogas Project*
The Cabinet also approved the award of the Wet Waste-Based Compressed Biogas (CBG) Project for the Mohali Cluster to HPCL Renewable and Green Energy Limited (HPRGE) on a nomination basis.
The project will be established at Village Samgauli, Dera Bassi, under the Municipal Corporation S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali).
The initiative is aimed at ensuring efficient scientific management of wet waste generated in the city while reducing the burden of waste disposal. It will also contribute towards developing a cleaner, greener and pollution-free urban environment, thereby improving the overall quality of life of residents.
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*Bhagwant Mann Govt Takes Historic Step To Fast-Track Drug Cases; 35 Exclusive Special NDPS Courts To Be Set Up*
*Punjab Cabinet Under Leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Approves Exclusive Special NDPS Courts To Ensure Speedy Trials In Drug Cases*
*385 Posts, Including 35 Additional District And Sessions Judges, Approved*
*52,577 NDPS Cases Pending In Punjab; Dedicated Courts To Help Clear Backlog & Reduce 8-Year Disposal Time*
CHANDIGARH; 31st October 2026:
The Punjab Cabinet under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday approved the establishment of 35 Exclusive Special NDPS (National Drugs Psychotropic Substances) Courts across the state to ensure speedy disposal of drug-related cases, reduce judicial pendency and strengthen the ongoing fight against the drug menace.
A decision to this effect was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Disclosing this, the Chief Minister’s Office stated, “Punjab is facing a serious challenge of drug trafficking and abuse, with approximately 20,000 NDPS cases registered and around 27,000 arrests made annually in the state. Of these, approximately 12,000 cases are tried by Sessions Courts, while only around 5,700 cases are disposed of annually, resulting in 52,577 pending cases as on August 31, 2026. Consequently, the average disposal time of such cases is approximately eight years.”
The Registrar General of the Punjab and Haryana High Court had assessed the requirement for additional Exclusive Special NDPS Courts to clear the backlog over the next five to seven years. Accordingly, the Cabinet has approved the establishment of 35 such courts in the first phase.
Along with this, 385 posts have been approved, comprising 35 Additional District and Sessions Judges, 315 supporting staff members and 35 Assistant District Attorneys. An estimated expenditure of approximately ₹75 crore, including infrastructure costs, has also been sanctioned.
The existing designated courts will continue functioning until the new Exclusive Special NDPS Courts become fully operational.
These dedicated courts will facilitate speedy disposal of NDPS cases, reduce pendency and delays, and ensure better utilisation of government witnesses. The initiative is expected to strengthen the judicial mechanism against drug-related offences and further the Punjab Government’s efforts to break the backbone of the drug menace in the state.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*DAY 284 OF GANGSTRAN TE VAAR: PUNJAB POLICE CONDUCTS 475 RAIDS; 152 HELD*
*— POLICE TEAMS ALSO TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST 158 INDIVIDUALS*
*— PEOPLE CAN ANONYMOUSLY REPORT GANGSTER-RELATED INFORMATION VIA ANTI-GANGSTER HELPLINE NUMBER 93946-93946*
*— 139 DRUG SMUGGLERS HELD WITH 10KG HEROIN ON DAY 609 OF YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH*
CHANDIGARH, October 31:
As the decisive ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign enters its 284th day, Punjab Police today conducted 475 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 284, Police teams arrested 152 individuals held, taking the total arrests to 81,837 since the launch of the campaign.
Apart from this, preventive action has been taken against 158 persons. Police teams have also arrested three 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 609th day with 139 drug smugglers arrested today and recovered 10 kg heroin, 1 kg opium, 680 intoxicant pills and Rs 13,400 drug money from their possession. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 89,774 in just 609 days. As part of De-addiction, the Punjab Police has convinced 39 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*Asian Champions Trophy crosses half way, enters in final phase*
*India and Malaysia reach Semi-Final with registering three wins*
*Indian Captain Harmanpreet Singh tops in score tally with five Goals*
*Final six league matches to be played in Jalandhar on Nov 1 and 2*
*Mohali to witness knockout stage matches on November 4 and 5*
Chandigarh/Jalandhar, October 31:
The ongoing Asian Champions Trophy, an international hockey tournament being hosted on Punjab soil for the first time, has crossed the halfway entering in final phase. Each team has already played three league matches thus two matches remaining for each team. The remaining league fixtures will be played on November 1 and 2 while India and Malaysia have secured its places in the semi-finals after winning three matches each. On the individual goal-scoring tally, Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh was leading with five goals.
The event is the result of the concerted efforts of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, whose vision has brought top-tier Asian hockey to the state. Dream come true for Indian hockey players who have long wished to play an international competition on home soil.
Saturday was a rest day for all teams in the Asian Champions Trophy, as no match would be played. However, the China, South Korea and Bangladesh teams held practice sessions. In the closing days of the league stage, the matches will take place at 2:30 PM, 4:45 PM, and 7:00 PM respectively. On November 1, South Korea would play with Bangladesh whereas another match is to be held between China and Japan, and India will take on Malaysia followed by November 2 matches between China and Bangladesh, Malaysia and Japan while India would play against South Korea. The matches would be played at 2:30 pm, 4:45 pm and 07:00 pm respectively.
In the league matches played at the Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in here, India and Malaysia have already secured positions in the semi-finals by winning all three matches so far. India tops the points tally owing to a goal difference, while Malaysia sits in second place. Japan is at third place with two victories and South Korea having one victory occupies fourth place. China and Bangladesh were not secured any victory. Of total six participating teams, the first four teams would advance to the semi-finals while the teams finishing fifth and sixth place in the league phase are to play for the fifth-position. All knockout stage matches would be played at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior Stadium in Mohali on November 4 and 5.
A total of 9 matches have been played in the tournament so far, with every match showing a decisive result and no match registered a draw. A total of 54 goals have been scored, averaging six goals per match. Of the 54 goals, 28 were field goals, 23 from penalty corners, and three were scored via penalty strokes. After three matches for each team, India has scored the highest number of goals (22) and three conceded goals . Malaysia has scored 14 goals with six conceded goals. Japan has scored 5 goals and conceded 6. South Korea has scored 5 goals and conceded 7. China has scored 7 goals and conceded 12, whereas Bangladesh has scored 1 goal while conceding 20. So far, only India and Japan have kept a clean sheet in a match, with both teams achieving this by not conceding a single goal against Bangladesh.
In the individual goal-scoring standings, Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh was at the top tally with five goals in three matches followed by Malaysia's Abu Kamal Azrai with four goals. India's Mandeep Singh and Abhishek, along with Malaysia's Akhimullah and Azimuddin, have scored three goals each. The only hat-trick of the tournament so far was scored by India's Mandeep Singh, who netted three goals in the opening match against Bangladesh. India's Hardik Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Jugraj Singh, and Dilpreet Singh; China's Chongcong Chen and Benhai Chen; and Malaysia's Faizal Saari had scored two goals each. Nineteen players have scored one goal each, bringing the total number of players on the goal-scorers list to 32.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*Mann Govt’s FastTrack Portal Sets Benchmark for Ease of Doing Business; Over 20K Approvals Granted in 16 Months*
*•Single-window portal guarantees time-bound approvals within 45 days, auto-deemed approval on delay, says Aman Arora*
*•Single Common Application Form ends department-hopping for investors*
- *Portal offers 2-step registration, real-time tracking & e-Wallet facility ensuring transparency & accountability: Industries Minister*
Chandigarh, October 31:
Setting a new national benchmark in Ease of Doing Business, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab Government's FastTrack Portal (https://fasttrack.punjab.gov.in) is fast emerging as a game-changer, positioning Punjab as India's most investor-friendly destination. The portal guarantees all regulatory approvals within 45 days, backed by provision for automatic deemed approval in case of delay and has already delivered 20,417 clearances since its launch on June 10, 2025.
Calling it a game-changer for the state’s industrial landscape, Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister Mr. Aman Arora said that the portal serves as a single-window digital platform, enabling businesses to obtain all regulatory approvals and government services online through one integrated system.
Highlighting its operational efficiency, Mr. Aman Arora said the portal offers a seamless two-step online registration process. Once registered, investors can access a dedicated dashboard to apply for new investments, avail services for existing projects, manage e-Wallet transactions and track their projects in real time.
For new investments, businesses need to submit only a single Common Application Form to apply for all requisite services, approvals and clearances, eliminating the need to approach multiple departments separately. The portal guarantees time-bound delivery of approvals within a maximum of 45 days, with provision for automatic deemed approval in case of departmental delay- a move that ensures administrative efficiency, brings clarity on timelines and enables faster decision-making for investors.
The Industries and Commerce Minister said the platform underscores CM Mann-led government’s resolve to build a transparent, efficient and investor-friendly business ecosystem by eliminating procedural bottlenecks and ensuring greater accountability in approvals.
“Our government is committed to building a transparent, efficient and investor-friendly ecosystem where businesses can grow without procedural hurdles. Invest Punjab is leading this transformation with the vision of becoming India’s best Investment Promotion Agency. The FastTrack Portal is a testament to our commitment to time-bound approvals, digital governance and Ease of Doing Business,” stated Mr. Aman Arora.
In an increasingly competitive investment landscape, the FastTrack initiative is a significant step forward, Mr. Arora said, while adding that by leveraging technology to simplify government-to-business interface, Punjab government is enabling investors to focus on what matters most — project implementation, employment generation and enterprise growth — instead of navigating cumbersome procedures.
The portal further strengthens the investment facilitation efforts of Invest Punjab. Through initiatives like FastTrack, Punjab is building a robust institutional framework to attract fresh investments, support existing enterprises and drive sustainable industrial growth, he added.
As Punjab aggressively pursues investments across sectors, the FastTrack Portal stands out as a progressive governance reform that brings simplicity, predictability and efficiency to the regulatory approval process, Mr. Arora said.
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Information and Public Relations Department, Punjab
*Dr. Baljit Kaur: Punjab Government Strengthens Support for SC Students’ Higher Education Dreams; 2.70 Lakh Students to Benefit Under Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme in 2026-27*
*Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government Committed to Ensuring That No Deserving Student Is Deprived of Higher Education Due to Financial Constraints*
*₹245 Crore Proposed for Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme; Number of Beneficiary Students Increased by 40% in 2025-26 Compared to 2020-21*
*Smooth Application Process Through National Scholarship Portal; Special Focus on Awareness and Assistance for Students*
*Dr. Baljit Kaur Appeals to Students to Avail Maximum Benefits of the Scheme and Contribute Towards Building Rangla Punjab*
Chandigarh, October 31:
Reiterating the Punjab Government’s commitment towards social justice and ensuring equal opportunities in education, Punjab Cabinet Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development and Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government is making continuous efforts to ensure that financial constraints do not become a barrier in the path of higher education for any Scheduled Caste student.
Sharing details of the Budget Proposals for 2026-27, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the Punjab Government has set a target to provide benefits of the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Caste students to nearly 2.70 lakh students, with an estimated expenditure of ₹245 crore. She said that this initiative reflects the State Government’s strong commitment towards educational empowerment of SC students and providing them equal opportunities to pursue higher education.
The Minister said that the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Caste students is being implemented with complete transparency and dedication, enabling students from economically weaker sections to pursue higher education and realise their aspirations.
Highlighting the progress of the scheme, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the number of students availing benefits under the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme increased by 40 per cent in 2025-26 as compared to 2020-21, which reflects the expanding reach of the scheme and the Government’s continuous efforts to ensure that eligible students receive timely assistance.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further informed that a special awareness programme on the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme was organised on January 30, 2026, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, with the objective of creating awareness among students about the scheme and encouraging them to avail its benefits. More than 10,000 students participated in the programme, reflecting the positive response of the student community towards the initiative.
She said that for the convenience of students, the scheme has been implemented through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). She added that continuous efforts are being made to provide information regarding the application process, resolve technical issues and create awareness about the scheme. She also directed officials and educational institutions to provide full support to eligible students so that no student is deprived of the benefits of the scheme due to lack of information or procedural difficulties.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that the objective of the Punjab Government is not only to provide financial assistance but also to make SC students self-reliant, empowered and connected with the mainstream through education. She said that expanding educational opportunities is essential for channelising the potential of youth in the right direction and strengthening the foundation of an equal and prosperous Punjab.
The Minister said that education is the strongest instrument for achieving social equality, economic progress and empowerment. She added that the Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Government is continuously working towards fulfilling the aspirations and dreams of the youth to realise the vision of a progressive and Rangla Punjab.
Dr. Baljit Kaur appealed to students to make maximum use of the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, pursue higher education with dedication and contribute towards the development of Punjab. She reiterated that the Punjab Government stands firmly with every eligible student and is committed to ensuring that financial difficulties never become an obstacle in their education and bright future.