CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday asserted that the state has not witnessed a single paper leak incident since his government assumed office in 2022, even as 93 exam papers were leaked across the country since 2017. Speaking at an event where he handed over appointment letters to 355 newly recruited employees for various government departments, Mann emphasized that his administration conducted examinations transparently and awarded jobs purely on merit.
Youth Empowerment and Reverse Migration
Highlighting the state government's vision for youth empowerment, Mann said opportunities were being created to encourage young people to remain, grow, and succeed in Punjab. He noted that reverse migration has begun in the state, a pathway has been established for regularizing 65,000 contractual employees, and significant investments have been made in skill development through 25 new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and the upgradation of 13 existing institutes.
Comparison with National Scenario
Drawing parallels between the recruitment process adopted by his government and the situation elsewhere in the country, Mann remarked, "Our Central government could not conduct a NEET exam. Since 2017, question papers of around 93 examinations have been leaked across the country. Such incidents involving major examinations, including NEET, have disappointed and demoralized lakhs of youths." However, he emphasized that not a single such incident occurred in Punjab since his government took power in 2022. He attributed this to an honest government working in the state, ensuring meritorious students receive opportunities.
NEET Cancellation and Transparent Recruitment
The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) held on May 3 was canceled following allegations of irregularities and a suspected paper leak. Mann stated that his administration has so far provided 67,037 government jobs entirely on merit, with every appointment made without corruption, nepotism, or favoritism.
Transformation in Education Sector
Mann highlighted a remarkable transformation in Punjab's education sector. "When our government assumed office, Punjab was ranked 27th in the country in school education. Today, according to NITI Aayog, Punjab is the number one state in school education, surpassing states like Kerala. This was made possible by our investment in strengthening government schools and the creation of world-class educational infrastructure," he said. Schools across Punjab are now equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and modern infrastructure, fostering an environment that encourages learning, innovation, and excellence.
Teacher Training and Schools of Eminence
Mann noted that government school teachers in Punjab have received world-class training. "Our principals and education officers have received world-class training in Singapore. Head teachers have undergone advanced training at IIM Ahmedabad. Primary teachers have received specialized training at Turku University in Finland," he said, adding that the objective was to enhance teacher expertise so that students in government schools receive the highest quality education. The Punjab government has established 118 'Schools of Eminence' for children from ordinary and underprivileged backgrounds. "These Schools of Eminence are creating opportunities that were previously unavailable to many students. Students from private schools are now taking admission in these schools. This is proof of the trust people have developed in the government education system," he said.
Competitive Exam Preparation
The chief minister stated that students in these institutions are provided specialized coaching for Armed Forces preparatory programs and competitive examinations such as NEET, JEE, CLAT, and NIFT. "We are preparing our children not merely to pass examinations but to compete successfully at the national level and secure leadership positions in every field," he said.
Technical Education and Skill Development
On technical education and skill development, Mann said his government is making determined efforts to create a highly skilled and future-ready workforce capable of meeting the demands of modern industries and emerging technologies. "We have undertaken transformative initiatives to strengthen technical education and enhance the employability of the youth. Construction of 25 new Industrial Training Institutes is currently underway. At the same time, 13 existing ITIs are being upgraded with better infrastructure and modern facilities," he concluded.
