*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Flags Off Bike Rally to Launch Decisive ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’*

*People Can Share Their Suggestions Through Suggestion Boxes Carried by Bike Rally Across All 23 Districts: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Punjab Has Emerged From Drug Quagmire, Will Not Allow Drugs to Be Sold Even Secretly: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Team of Film Thaapi Will Also Raise Awareness Among State’s Youth to Give Up Drugs: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Will Turn ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ Into People’s Movement to Completely Eradicate Drugs: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Appeal to All Youth to Quit Drugs Permanently & Embrace Education and Sports: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*BJP, Akali and Congress Govts Spread Drugs & Diminished Punjab’s Glory: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

MOHALI (SAS NAGAR); 10th October 2026:Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday launched the final phase of ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ from the historic land of Chapparchiri, flagging off a bikers’ rally across all 23 districts to turn the fight against drugs into a people’s movement. Declaring that Punjab would not allow drugs to be sold even secretly, he called upon every Punjabi to join the decisive battle to eradicate the menace, protect the future of the State’s youth and restore Punjab’s lost glory. With suggestion and complaint boxes accompanying the rally and the team of film Thaapi joining the awareness drive, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann urged young people to shun drugs permanently and embrace education and sports, while holding previous BJP, Akali and Congress governments responsible for spreading drugs and diminishing Punjab’s glory.

Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “Flagged off the bike rallies from the historic land of Chapparchiri today, marking the launch of the final phase of the ‘Yudh Nashean Viruddh’. The fight against drugs is not just the responsibility of the government or the police. We must all come together and turn it into a people’s movement. Heartfelt thanks to actress Neeru Bajwa Ji, the team of the film Thaapi, and all those who care deeply about Punjab for joining this campaign. Punjab is the land of Gurus, saints, martyrs, sportspersons and brave military generals. Let us unite to make our Punjab drug-free and restore its glory as Rangla Punjab. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The launch of the final phase from the historic land of Chapparchiri carries immense significance, as it is associated with Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Ji’s historic struggle against injustice and tyranny. The same spirit of courage, sacrifice and determination will guide Punjab in its battle against drugs.”

The Chief Minister stated, “The ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ cannot be won by the government alone and requires the united strength of every Punjabi. The State Government has launched an uncompromising offensive against the drug menace, and I appeal to people from all walks of life to become active participants in this campaign. This fight is not merely against drug traffickers but also about protecting the lives, dignity and future of Punjab’s younger generation,” he said.

He said, “The bikers’ rally will travel across all 23 districts of Punjab, taking the message against drugs to villages, towns and communities. A dedicated vehicle will accompany the rally to collect public feedback and suggestions for the welfare and development of the State. This initiative will strengthen public participation and spread awareness at the grassroots level, making the anti-drug campaign a collective movement.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “A complaint box will also be available during the rally for people to report drug traffickers or share information about them. The objective is to visit villages and towns, raise awareness about drug abuse and encourage affected individuals to seek treatment. The participating bikers are ambassadors of ‘Yudh Nashean Viruddh’, serving society through this noble initiative.”

Appealing to the people, the Chief Minister said, “These bikers have set out carrying a message of courage, hope and a brighter future. I urge people to share information about drug traffickers through the designated Safe Punjab helpline.”

Reaffirming the government’s resolve to dismantle drug-smuggling networks, he said, “Anti-drone systems have been deployed along the borders to detect and intercept drones used for transporting drugs from across the border. The government is strengthening efforts to check cross-border drug smuggling and protect Punjab’s youth from this menace.”

He said, “Punjab is the sacred land of Guru Sahiban, saints and seers. We cannot allow drugs to destroy the future of our children. The government is committed to eradicating this menace through firm action and the active participation of the people.”

Highlighting employment generation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We have provided 70,885 government jobs purely on merit, ensuring transparency and fairness in recruitment. Employment generation is an important pillar of our efforts to channelise the energy of young people towards constructive and productive pursuits.”

Taking a dig at previous governments, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Years of neglect deprived Punjab and its people of opportunities. Our government is working to reverse this through people-centric policies, accountable governance and development initiatives that directly benefit ordinary families.”

He highlighted initiatives including the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, free electricity, Aam Aadmi Clinics, improved school education, world-class road infrastructure, quality healthcare facilities and playgrounds in villages, saying these reflected the government’s commitment to building a modern, prosperous and progressive Punjab.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Around 15,000 Village and Ward Defence Committees have been formed to eradicate drugs from every village and town. Around 1.25 lakh members of these committees are working as anti-drug volunteers.”

He said, “More than 81,000 drug smugglers have been arrested, 3,900 kg of heroin and 983 kg of opium have been seized, and the conviction rate in drug-trafficking cases has reached 89%.”

The Chief Minister added, “A total of 51,979 citizens have provided information through the Safe Punjab helpline, leading to 25,339 arrests. Information provided by Village Defence Committees has resulted in more than 4,000 FIRs and 5,000 arrests. Under ‘Yudh Nasheyan Viruddh’, the Punjab Police has conducted more than 75,000 public meetings in 17 months.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The confidence of people affected by drug addiction in the government has increased, encouraging them to approach de-addiction centres to overcome their addiction. Admissions at government de-addiction centres have nearly tripled in one year, and treatment is provided entirely free of cost. More than 40,000 patients have been admitted to these centres.”

He added, “Skill development and sports training have been introduced at de-addiction and rehabilitation centres to help recovering youth rebuild their lives and prevent relapse. Since March 2025, skill training has been provided at de-addiction centres in 21 districts.”

Referring to the ‘Soorme’ initiative launched earlier this year, he said, “Young people who have remained drug-free for two years are being honoured through this initiative. These individuals are now serving as role models and guiding others towards a drug-free life.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Around 7.5 lakh students have been covered under the drug-prevention programme to protect the next generation from the menace of drugs. I appeal to all young people to give up drugs permanently and embrace education and sports.”

He said the sports budget had been substantially increased to encourage young people to participate in sporting activities, with ₹1,791 crore allocated for sports. He added that 3,100 rural sports grounds and 3,000 gyms were being developed.

Emphasising the role of sports in combating drug abuse, the Chief Minister said, “‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan’ has revolutionised the sporting culture of the State by encouraging participation across age groups, with three generations of families competing in various categories. Sports provide young people with positive direction, discipline and opportunities to excel at national and international levels.”

Highlighting Punjab’s contribution to Indian sports, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann referred to Shubman Gill’s leadership of the Indian men’s cricket team, Harmanpreet Kaur’s role as captain of the national women’s cricket team, and Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership of India’s gold medal-winning hockey team at the recently concluded Asian Games in Japan.

He said, “Nine of the 11 players in the Indian hockey team were from Punjab. We also acknowledge Preetpal Singh Brar’s leadership in basketball.”

Recalling Punjab’s sporting legacy, he paid tribute to Milkha Singh, Dara Singh, Olympian Balbir Singh and Olympian Surjit Singh.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab has the talent, determination and sporting tradition needed to produce champions and Olympians. The government is committed to nurturing this legacy and providing young people with opportunities to excel.”

Highlighting the contribution of Punjabis to cinema, the Chief Minister announced that a world-class film city equipped with modern amenities was being planned in the State.

He said, “The proposed project will strengthen the Punjabi entertainment industry and create fresh opportunities for artists and professionals.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The cleaning and rejuvenation of village ponds through the Seechewal and Thapar models are important steps towards sustainable rural development.”

Reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting religious sentiments, he said, “Legislation has been enacted to prescribe exemplary punishment, including life imprisonment without parole, for sacrilege against Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The government is committed to upholding the sanctity of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, protecting the religious sentiments of the people and ensuring stringent action against such offences.”

Concluding, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The final phase of ‘Yudh Nashean Viruddh’ will be pursued with determination and public participation. We will leave no stone unturned in our mission to free Punjab from drugs and build a safe, healthy and prosperous future for its people.”

Cabinet Minister Balbir Singh and others were also present on the occasion.

=============================================

*Honesty Is My Only Wealth: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*I’m Fighting for Punjab’s Rights, Which Is Why BJP Has Sent ED & CBI After Me: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Opposition Parties Want to Capture Power to Loot Punjab: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*My Stake Is Not in Buses, Sand, Contracts or Street Vending Stalls, But in Joys & Sorrows of 3 Crore Punjabis: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Trust Me, Public Service Is My Politics: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*For First Time, Govt Jobs in Punjab Are Being Given Without Bribes or Recommendations: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Addresses Lok Milni Programme in Ballaran, Sangrur*

BALLARAN; 10th October 2026:Reaffirming that his politics is driven by honesty and public service rather than personal interests, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said he was facing the BJP’s ED (Enforcement Directorate) - CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) action for fighting for Punjab’s rights, while traditional opposition parties were eyeing power to loot the state. During a Lok Milni programme in Ballaran, Sangrur, he said his government was breaking from the politics of vendetta by providing over 70,680 government jobs without bribes or recommendations, initiating the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna payments and releasing ₹60 lakh for development works in Ballaran and neighbouring Lehal Khurd. “My stake is not in buses, sand or contracts, but in the joys and sorrows of three crore Punjabis,” he said, asserting that the people’s trust remained his greatest strength.

Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated: “The immense love shown by the devotees, mothers and sisters at the ‘Lok Milni’ programme in Ballaran village (Lehragaga) reflects that the sun of truth never sets. My association with the people of Ballaran dates back to 2012, and they have always showered me with more love than I could ever expect. Unlike traditional parties, we do not believe in the politics of vendetta. Our goal is to educate your sons and daughters and help them rise to senior positions. We have provided more than 70,680 government jobs without any recommendations or bribes, and the crediting of the Samman Rashi into the bank accounts of mothers and sisters has also begun. Development works in villages will not be allowed to stall. Accordingly, grants worth ₹35 lakh for Ballaran and ₹25 lakh for neighbouring Lehal Khurd, totalling ₹60 lakh, were handed over today. Your love and blessings are my true strength, and no one can defeat that strength. Inquilab Zindabad.”

Addressing the Lok Milni programme in Ballaran village of Sangrur district, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “My honesty is my greatest wealth, and the love and trust of three crore Punjabis are my real strength. My stake is not in buses, sand, contracts or roadside vending stalls. My stake lies in the joys and sorrows of the people of Punjab. Their hopes are my responsibility, and their struggles are my own. I entered politics to serve the people, and public service will always remain the guiding principle of my government.”

Taking on the BJP over the use of central investigative agencies, the Chief Minister stated, “I am fighting for the rights of Punjab, and that is why the BJP has sent the ED and CBI after me. Those who raise their voice for Punjab and refuse to compromise on its interests are being subjected to political pressure. But I will never surrender the rights of Punjab or the dignity of its people for personal comfort.”

He said, “The opposition parties want to capture power not to serve Punjab, but to regain control over the state’s resources and exploit them for their own interests. Punjab has suffered enough under politics driven by vested interests. The people want honest leadership, opportunities for their children and a government that stands beside them in difficult times. Our government is committed to fulfilling these aspirations rather than serving a privileged few.”

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to transparent recruitment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “For the first time in Punjab, young people are getting government jobs without bribes or political recommendations. We have provided more than 70,680 government jobs purely on merit. For generations, young people were made to believe that securing a government job required money, influence or political connections. We are determined to change that mindset. No deserving young person should have to approach a politician or pay a bribe to secure employment.”

He said his government’s objective was to ensure that merit, rather than money or political influence, determined the future of young people. “I seek the people’s trust because I want to serve them. My strength comes from the people of Punjab, not from positions of power. As long as they continue to support me, I will keep fighting for their rights, dignity and a better future for the next generation,” he added.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that every rupee collected from taxpayers was being utilised judiciously for the welfare of the people. “The people’s money belongs to the people, and it is being returned to them through development, better schools, hospitals, roads and public infrastructure. More than 90% of households in Punjab are receiving free electricity, while farmers are getting electricity during the daytime, providing them greater convenience in agricultural operations.”

The Chief Minister said his government had taken several steps to ease the financial burden on households and improve public services. These included free electricity, employment for more than 70,000 young people, road improvements, better education and healthcare, and the closure of toll plazas that were saving commuters approximately ₹70 lakh daily. “Public money must serve public interests. Our government is working to ensure that the benefits of development reach ordinary families rather than being confined to a privileged few,” he said.

Highlighting the state government’s healthcare initiative, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna provides cashless medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh per family every year. The scheme aims to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent any family in Punjab from accessing necessary medical treatment.”

The Chief Minister said the initiative was intended to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on families and expand access to quality medical services. The government’s objective, he added, was to make comprehensive healthcare accessible to residents across the state.

He said the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna reflected the government’s commitment to the dignity and financial empowerment of women. He said eligible women aged 18 years and above would receive monthly assistance of ₹1,000 for general-category beneficiaries and ₹1,500 for Scheduled Caste women, with the money transferred directly into their bank accounts from July 1.

He added that women already receiving social security pensions would also be eligible for the scheme. “Nearly 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit from this initiative, for which the state government has allocated ₹9,300 crore in the budget. The assistance is intended to strengthen women’s financial independence and provide them with greater support in meeting their needs,” he said.

Emphasising education as the foundation of social and economic transformation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Freebies and concession cards alone cannot eliminate poverty or other social problems. Education is the key that can help people break out of the cycle of poverty, improve their standard of living and secure a better future for their children.”

He said the state government had prioritised improvements in government schools through teacher training, Schools of Eminence and other initiatives aimed at raising educational standards.

Highlighting the performance of government school students in competitive examinations, he said, “In 2021, only 80 students from government schools cleared the NEET examination. In 2026, this number has risen to 882, an increase of more than eleven times. This progress reflects the sustained efforts being made to improve the quality of education and expand opportunities for students from ordinary families.”

He said the government remained committed to ensuring that children from economically weaker backgrounds received quality education and had the opportunity to pursue their ambitions.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the his government had undertaken extensive work to expand canal irrigation and improve rural infrastructure. “For the first time in the history of Punjab, canal water has reached the fields of 1,587 villages that had never previously received canal water. Our government has spent ₹7,200 crore to expand canal irrigation and ensure that water reaches agricultural fields,” he said.

He added that the area receiving canal irrigation had increased from 26% to more than 80% since his government assumed office. In 2022, approximately 20.89 lakh acres received canal water, compared with 60.30 lakh acres at present, according to the figures cited by the Chief Minister.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said that approximately 45,000 kilometres of roads were being renovated and upgraded to improve connectivity and facilitate residents across the state.

Highlighting the importance of sports in steering young people away from drugs, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the government was working to develop 3,100 sports stadiums across Punjab. He said the initiative would provide young people with better sporting facilities, encourage participation in physical activities and help nurture sporting talent in villages.

He added that rural development remained a priority and that grants were being provided to ensure that essential development works continued without interruption.

Recalling his longstanding association with the people of Ballaran, the Chief Minister said, “My relationship with the people of Ballaran dates back to 2012, and they have always given me more love and affection than I could have ever expected. The immense love and blessings of the people, especially the mothers and sisters who attended the Lok Milni, reinforce my resolve to continue serving them with sincerity.”

He said the state government would not allow development works in villages to stall and announced development grants of ₹35 lakh for Ballaran and ₹25 lakh for neighbouring Lehal Khurd, taking the total allocation to ₹60 lakh. “Our government does not believe in the politics of vendetta practised by traditional parties. Our objective is to educate the sons and daughters of Punjab, help them become capable professionals and officers, and create opportunities for every family to progress. Your love and blessings are my true strength, and I will continue to work for the welfare and prosperity of Punjab,” he said.

The Chief Minister reiterated that his government would continue to prioritise transparent governance, employment, education, healthcare, irrigation and rural development, adding that the welfare of the people would remain at the centre of every decision.