On March 30, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated various significant infrastructure and irrigation initiatives in the Sanaur constituency of Patiala, with a total investment of ₹87 crore. This includes ₹49.60 crore allocated for the renovation of roads and ₹27 crore for canal lining projects aimed at enhancing irrigation water access across 40,066 acres of farmland in 83 villages.

The Chief Minister emphasized the shift from previous governance, which he claimed allowed infrastructure to deteriorate due to corruption. The new framework mandates a five-year maintenance clause for contractors, aimed at ensuring the longevity and quality of the roads. He stated that the current administration has increased irrigation coverage significantly, expanding from 21,050 acres to a broader reach while also successfully securing Punjab’s rightful 25 percent share of Bhakra canal water from Haryana.

Infrastructure Improvement in Sanaur

During his address, Mann highlighted that several new link roads would soon be constructed, alongside upgrades to existing roads, aimed at enhancing connectivity. The main road from Patiala to Pehowa is set to undergo extensive transformation into a four-lane highway, designed to facilitate smoother transit towards Delhi. This initiative is part of a larger plan to construct approximately 44,920 kilometers of roads across the state, with an investment of ₹16,209 crore.

On irrigation initiatives, Mann underscored the government’s focus on water conservation, claiming that past administrations had neglected these crucial resources. He noted the revival of 6,900 kilometers of water courses and stated that ₹6,500 crore has been allocated to rejuvenate the canal system, ensuring that newly introduced irrigation measures benefit farmers effectively. Furthermore, for the first time, 1,444 villages in Punjab have received canal water.

Mann also discussed strides made in the education domain, announcing that Punjab attained the highest scores in the National Achievement Survey 2024, surpassing established educational states like Kerala. In recent years, 740 students successfully passed the JEE, and 1,284 cleared the NEET exams, alongside the establishment of 118 Schools of Eminence aimed at providing quality education to deserving students.

The Chief Minister introduced the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, aimed at issuing health cards to 65 lakh families in Punjab, enabling free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh. Over 30 lakh beneficiaries have already received these cards since the programme’s inception. He noted that more than 1.65 lakh people have availed themselves of free medical treatments under this scheme.

Additionally, Mann highlighted improvements in electricity supply for agriculture, noting that for the first time, uninterrupted power supply has been provided to farmers for over eight hours during the paddy season. He stated that daytime electricity supply for irrigation has significantly changed the agricultural landscape in Punjab.

Government Schemes for Women and Social Welfare

As part of social welfare initiatives, Mann mentioned the launch of the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, delivering monthly financial assistance to women, which includes ₹1,000 for general beneficiaries and ₹1,500 for Scheduled Caste women aged 18 and above. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to using taxpayer money for public welfare and development projects.

The establishment of the Sadak Surakhiya Force aims to enhance road safety, having already reduced accident-related fatalities by 48 percent since its formation in February last year. The Punjab Government has also implemented measures to streamline property registration processes, ensuring transparency and ease for residents.

Mann reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating drug-related issues through the Yudh Nashean Virud campaign, which focuses on disrupting drug supply chains and providing employment opportunities for youth. He announced that initiatives to boost youth employment will continue alongside efforts to ensure community safety and health.

Promoting Sports and Culture

Lastly, Mann mentioned that Punjab would soon host the Asia Cup Hockey, revitalizing regional sporting events. He expressed pride in orchestrating celebrations for the 650th Parkash Purab of Guru Ravidass ji, underlining the cultural commitment of the current administration.

Present at the event were Cabinet Ministers Barinder Goyal and Balbir Singh, among other officials, as the government showcases its ongoing infrastructure and social development initiatives across the state.

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