In a significant move aimed at empowering the business community, the Punjab government has officially launched the Punjab State Traders Commission. The landmark initiative, unveiled in Mohali on Thursday, January 9, 2026, is designed to protect traders from bureaucratic hurdles and recognize their vital role in the state's economy.
A New Era for Punjab's Traders
Addressing the maiden meeting of the commission, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann hailed shopkeepers as the "true patriots" of the nation. He emphasized that by driving economic activity, they serve the country in the most genuine sense. Mann declared that this unprecedented body would ensure the welfare, dignity, and protection of traders, putting an end to years of governmental neglect and harassment.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, who was also present, described the commission as a decisive reform in governance. He stated that the traditional model, where traders were forced to "run from office to office," is now over. Kejriwal criticized past administrations for treating traders with suspicion, asserting, "Every government treated traders as thieves. We do not think like that. Traders work day and night, take risks, pay taxes, generate jobs and support society."
Structure and Promised Reforms
Kejriwal outlined the three-tier structure of the commission, which will operate at the state, district, and constituency levels. This framework is designed to bring governance directly to the markets. He claimed that 90% of issues, ranging from local infrastructure problems like roads and sanitation to disputes, would be resolved at the constituency level itself. More complex, policy-level matters would be escalated to the state government.
The key promises made by the leadership include:
- Simplifying complex procedures and reducing red tape.
- Curbing practices of "tax terrorism."
- Eliminating unnecessary hurdles in doing business.
- Ensuring that police and administration work alongside trader representatives.
Government's Track Record and Future Vision
Reflecting on his government's work, Kejriwal noted that instead of the typical anti-incumbency sentiment after four years in power, he was witnessing appreciation for the work done. Chief Minister Mann used the platform to highlight other achievements of his administration.
He shared that over 61,000 youths have been given government jobs purely on merit. In a major relief for commuters and traders, 17 toll plazas have been shut down, resulting in daily savings of nearly Rs 64 lakh. The vacant toll offices are slated to be converted into Aam Aadmi Clinics. Mann pledged that every additional rupee of government revenue would be spent judiciously for Punjab's development.
Senior AAP leader and Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia reinforced the message, calling traders the backbone of Punjab's economy. "For the first time in the country, traders are truly being empowered. The government itself will reach markets to resolve issues at the doorstep," he said. The event was also attended by Cabinet ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Cheema, and Sanjeev Arora.
The establishment of the Punjab State Traders Commission marks a clear policy shift, aiming to foster a more supportive environment for commerce and acknowledging the critical contribution of the trading community to the state's prosperity.
