In a significant push to bridge the urban-rural divide, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday directly engaged with residents in Sangrur, outlining an ambitious roadmap for holistic village development. The CM emphasized that providing world-class civic amenities in villages, at par with cities, is a top priority for his government.
Grassroots Engagement for Holistic Growth
Addressing the gathering, Mann stressed that the majority of Punjab's population lives in villages, making their development paramount for the state's progress. He called for active public support and cooperation, stating that the government's "gigantic task" of ensuring public welfare and village development cannot be achieved alone.
"The state government is committed to ensure unprecedented development in villages," Mann declared. He urged citizens and their elected representatives to regularly monitor ongoing works to guarantee quality execution. The CM revealed that the government has already sanctioned numerous projects to strengthen rural infrastructure, focusing on core issues like garbage removal, street lighting, and sewage.
Financial Prudence and Anti-Corruption Drive
Countering narratives of fund shortages, Mann asserted that ample funding is available for Punjab's comprehensive facelift. He claimed his administration has managed finances prudently, repaying old debts like those of the electricity board, sugar mills, and Markfed without halting new projects.
"Contrary to previous regimes which landed the state in a debt trap, our government has been repaying the debts," Mann said. He highlighted achievements like creating over 58,000 jobs, building new school buildings, and constructing 43,000 kilometres of roads.
On governance reforms, the CM pointed to online property registrations and faceless RTO services as key steps to uproot deep-rooted corruption. "The process is very easy nowadays... People have to just visit the sub-registrar office only for a quick photo and within 15-20 minutes, their registration is done," he explained, adding that concerted efforts are underway to make Punjab corruption-free.
Major Announcements and Political Barbs
The Chief Minister made a landmark announcement regarding healthcare, stating that the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna will provide cashless treatment worth Rs 10 lakh to 65 lakh families in both government and private hospitals across Punjab.
Mann did not shy away from political criticism. He slammed the Central Government for delaying funds to the state, calling it "unwarranted and undesirable" and against the spirit of federalism. He also took a dig at the Shiromani Akali Dal's use of AI in campaigns, suggesting it diverted them from real governance work.
Commenting on the Centre's decision to rename MGNREGA, Mann was dismissive, stating, "Name changes don't feed the poor. The daily wage labourers only care that they get work, so that they can feed their families."
Concluding his address, Mann reminded newly elected local representatives that their duty extends to all constituents, even those who didn't vote for them, and urged them to serve with missionary zeal for Punjab's progress.
