In a significant move aimed at levelling the playing field for aspirants from humble backgrounds, the Punjab government has rolled out Mission Pragati, a flagship initiative to provide completely free coaching for competitive examinations. The scheme was officially launched by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide in Exam Preparation
Interacting with students at the district library, CM Mann stated that the core objective of Mission Pragati is to support rural and meritorious students who find the high costs of private coaching centres prohibitive. He criticised the previous BRS government in Telangana, highlighting that its failure to fill state vacancies for a decade forced countless Punjabi youth to spend years and significant resources preparing in cities like Hyderabad.
The initiative is firmly rooted in the principle of "no one left behind" and seeks to democratise access to quality preparation, thereby increasing the representation of Punjab's youth in state and central government services.
How Mission Pragati Operates: Coaching, Training, and Mentorship
The programme has commenced its operations from the district library itself, utilising existing public infrastructure to keep costs minimal. The first batch already has 40 enrolled students receiving training for exams conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB), police departments, and the armed forces.
Mission Pragati offers a holistic preparation model:
- Free Academic Coaching: Classroom teaching for competitive exams.
- Free Physical Training: Experienced trainers from the Punjab Police are roped in to ensure candidates are fit for physical tests.
- Free Study Material: Students are enrolled as library members, granting them free access to necessary books and resources.
A unique "youth helping youth" mentoring approach is at the scheme's heart. Here, mentors are individuals who have themselves appeared for these competitive exams, providing relatable guidance and insights to the aspirants.
A Vision for Holistic Development and Job Creation
Chief Minister Mann reiterated that Mission Pragati is a key component of Punjab's broader education reforms. The ultimate vision extends beyond creating job seekers; it aims to nurture job providers and ensure the all-round development of the state's young population.
The programme has reportedly garnered widespread support from various sections of society, including educationists, university representatives, police officials, athletes, and students themselves. By focusing on equal opportunity and comprehensive support, the Punjab government hopes Mission Pragati will be a game-changer in empowering its youth for a brighter future in public service.
