*AAP Govt laying strong network of world-class roads across Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann lays foundation stone for 300 km of new roads*

*CM Bhagwant Singh Mann also lays foundation stone for repair of 350 km of roads in Jalalabad, Fazilka district*

*43,000 km of high-quality roads are being built across Punjab; if any road deteriorates, construction agency will be held accountable to rebuild it: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Earlier, due to corruption & ill intent, roads would be constructed & start breaking soon after, but this will not happen anymore: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*Electricity poles will be eliminated across Punjab & all wires will be shifted underground; pilot project to begin soon: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

*People of Punjab are very satisfied with our ‘politics of work’; this time they will give 100 seats & form AAP Govt once again: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann*

FAZILKA, 22 March 2026:Rolling out an expansive network of world-class roads across Punjab, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government has accelerated its infrastructure push with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann laying the foundation stone for 300 km of new roads and initiating repair work for 350 km in Jalalabad, Fazilka. The Chief Minister asserted that the era of corruption-driven, poor-quality construction is now firmly behind the state.

Positioning this as part of a massive 43,000 km road network being built across Punjab, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann underlined that strict accountability will ensure durability, announced plans to eliminate electricity poles through underground wiring, and expressed confidence that a satisfied electorate will return the government with a decisive mandate.

Addressing the rally, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “In the last four years, the state government has done more work than others did in 70 years. The state government is moving forward, and in 2027, the state will take this development to the next level. The development is coupled with a number of pro-people policies aimed at ensuring the well being of the common man.”

Expressing confidence in public support, he added, “It is a writing on the wall that with the active support of the common man, the Aam Aadmi Party will again form the government in 2027. Owing to the pro-people and development oriented policies of the state government, we will again win more than 100 seats in the ensuing Vidhan Sabha polls. The massive support shown by the people is a testimony to this fact that people are waiting to teach traditional parties a lesson by again showing them the door.”

Highlighting the contrast with opposition parties, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government is working tirelessly for welfare of people whereas the opposition has always sought share in the successful ventures during their days in power.” He added, “These leaders want to ruin the state by patronizing drugs and criminals due to which people had ousted them from power. Now all these anti-Punjab forces have joined hands to ruin Punjab and the time has come when Punjabis should also join hands to show them the door.”

Taking a dig at the Akali Dal, he said, “The real name of this gimmick of Akali Dal is ‘parivar bachao yatra’. After looting the state for 15 years, from whom are they trying to save Punjab? Akalis have plundered the state mercilessly, bruised the psyche of Punjabis emotionally and patronized several mafias.” He added, “People are well aware of the dubious character of the Akalis and Badal family due to which their theatricals won’t work now.”

The Chief Minister further said, “These leaders had patronized the gangsters in the state and infused drugs in the veins of the youth by shielding the drug smugglers. Akali Dal has always misused religion for their vested political interests but this time people will not get swayed away by it. The Akali leadership is building castles in the air to mislead the people of the state, but Punjabis will not fall prey to it.”

Targeting the Congress, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Congress leaders are daydreaming to assume power in the state. The Congress party is a divided house that will collapse due to their infighting. It is a pity that top Congress leaders are squabbling for power and have no vision for the state. Their only aim is to plunder the wealth of Punjab by assuming power, but their dreams will never be fulfilled.” He added, “Earlier these traditional parties just waited for their turn to grab power but now the broom is there to clean the mess created by these parties.”

Announcing a major welfare initiative, he said, “The state government has started Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana under which every woman will be entitled for ₹1,000 per month and ₹1,500 per month for women belonging to Scheduled Castes. Funds will be directly transferred to bank accounts and women already receiving social security pensions will also be eligible. Around 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit and the state government has allotted ₹9,300 crore in the budget. Registration will begin from April 13.”

Responding to criticism of the scheme, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Those who are mocking the state government over the launch of the scheme or are raising baseless queries don’t know the value of ₹1,000 for the common man. These people who spend more than ₹5,000 per meal from illegally minted money don’t value this amount, which is a big financial assistance for those who have to work hard even on festivals. The wives of these affluent leaders don’t need ₹1,000 as they spend more on cosmetics.”

On infrastructure, he said, “The AAP Government has embarked on a major program for repair of link roads across the state. There are a total of 43,000 kilometers of link roads and the state government has launched a project for their repair and upgradation. Along with repairing these roads, their maintenance will also be carried out for the next five years.”

Highlighting regional development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that this development meeting has been transformed into a massive rally. Punjab has seen a massive transformation in the last four years as water has reached areas where it hadn’t for 50–60 years.” He added, “This is a border area where professionals like doctors and teachers hesitate to serve, which is why the state government has made it mandatory for them to serve at least two years in border areas.”

He further said, “These teachers and doctors will receive extra allowance and additional points for promotions. The children of this region are extremely talented.” Sharing an anecdote, he added, “In 2008–09, I visited Donana village where a girl topped Punjab in 5th grade. Her family couldn’t afford further education, so I arranged sponsorship and got her admitted to Baru Sahib Academy. When veterinary doctors were appointed, she was among them.”

Emphasising opportunity creation, the Chief Minister said, “This proves that our children are not lacking, only opportunities are missing, and the state government is now providing these opportunities.” He added, “Earlier leaders like Sukhbir Badal were MLAs and even Deputy Chief Ministers from this region but no real work was done. They deliberately kept people poor so that voters would ask only for small favors during elections. They called this region ‘tail end’, but I consider it the ‘frontline’.”

Criticising past governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This area has small shopkeepers, traders and farmers. People voted massively for traditional parties in the past, but previous governments looted Punjab. These leaders drained resources like parasites and even today they have no agenda, only hunger for power. They try to outdo each other in abusing me and sending videos to their high command for mercy.”

Outlining achievements, he said, “The state government has provided free electricity to 90% of households, jobs to over 65,000 youth without corruption, improved roads, closed toll plazas saving ₹70 lakh daily, and is building infrastructure. The tax money of people belongs to the state and we are judiciously spending it on their welfare. People’s money is coming back to them through development, schools, hospitals and roads.”

He added, “Earlier this money was misused due to corruption, but now we have checked these pilferages for the well being of the people and the state.” Highlighting a breakthrough, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government has traced the 22 km long Sarhali Minor canal in the Majha region which was buried underground. This canal is now operational due to the concerted efforts of the state government.”

On irrigation reforms, he said, “Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusec, but due to our efforts supply of 10,000 cusec has been ensured. In that sense, the state has carved out a new Bhakra canal without acquiring even a single inch of land.” He added, “For decades farmers drew water from Ferozepur and Sirhind canals in rotation, but for the first time this system has ended, providing major relief.”

On groundwater recovery, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Groundwater extraction rate has reduced from 61.49% in 2022 to 31.6% in 2025. Groundwater has recharged up to 4 metres in several villages, which is heartening.”

Looking ahead, he said, “This is the result of honest governance and in the coming times we aim to implement underground electricity lines across Punjab. This will make fields cleaner, prevent accidents and ensure better supply. If the pilot succeeds, it will be expanded.”

Reiterating his government’s approach, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “People used to say nothing would change, no jobs, no roads, no development, but we have proven them wrong.”

Cabinet Ministers, MLAs and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

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*Businesspersons’ trust in Bhagwant Mann Govt evident as ₹111.16 crore recovered under OTS scheme from key districts*

*Strong response to OTS scheme reflects taxpayers’ trust in transparent, business-friendly policies of Bhagwant Mann govt: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*OTS scheme gives businesses clean slate with relief on old VAT dues, reduces litigation & strengthens revenue: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Golden opportunity to settle old dues with waivers, traders urged to act before window shuts: Harpal Singh Cheema*

*Govt to shift from relief to crackdown mode after deadline, 8,000 properties already identified for action: Harpal Singh Cheema*

CHANDIGARH, 22nd March 2026:Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Sunday said the One-Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme for VAT arrears has witnessed an overwhelming response, with 7,845 applications covering dues of around ₹298.39 crore and ₹111.16 crore already recovered. Positioning it as a decisive push to clean up legacy tax burdens while boosting revenue, he warned that the relief window closes on March 31, after which the government will shift to strict recovery mode, with nearly 8,000 properties already identified for action.

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated, “The scheme has already resulted in a total realisation of ₹111.16 crore. The active participation from the Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, and Ropar divisions is commendable. The strong response from these key districts demonstrates a growing awareness of the scheme's immense financial benefits.”

Issuing a strong appeal, he said, “All eligible taxpayers must step forward and contribute to the state's growth as the scheme approaches its definitive conclusion on March 31, 2026. Businesspersons must not miss this last opportunity to resolve pending VAT arrears and seamlessly align with the state's taxation frameworks before the OTS window closes permanently. The unprecedented leniency and substantial waivers offered under this scheme are strictly time-bound.”

Encouraging taxpayers to utilise the final window, he cautioned, “The state government's current posture of facilitation and waiver will naturally transition back to strict statutory compliance and uncompromising recovery protocols once the deadline lapses, leaving unresolved legacy accounts subject to standard regulatory scrutiny without the shield of these concessions.”

The Finance Minister added that after 31st March 2026, recovery proceedings will be carried out in accordance with the provisions of law in cases where dues remain unpaid. As part of preparedness, approximately 8,000 properties have already been identified for necessary action, wherever required.

Emphasising the core philosophy, Harpal Singh Cheema said, “The overwhelming response to the OTS scheme reflects the trust of taxpayers in the transparent and business-friendly policies of the CM Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government. This initiative is aimed at providing relief, reducing litigation, and strengthening the State’s revenue system.” He further added that the scheme was specifically designed to offer a golden opportunity to settle old VAT liabilities with substantial relief in interest and penalties, enabling businesses to start afresh with a clean financial slate.

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*Bhagwant Mann Govt’s Universal Healthcare Model Surpasses Ayushman Bharat, Covers Every Family Without Conditions*

*₹10 Lakh Cover for All, Not Select Few, Bhagwant Mann Govt Redefines Public Healthcare While Centre Sticks to Limits*

*No Lists, No Exclusions, Bhagwant Mann Govt’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna Exposes Gaps in Ayushman Bharat*

*Healthcare should reach every resident, not selected few, Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna ensures access based on need, not eligibility: Dr. Balbir Singh*

CHANDIGARH, March 22:At a time when rising medical costs continue to push Indian families into financial distress, a stark contrast is emerging in how healthcare is being funded and delivered. While the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat allocates ₹9,500 crore for a population of 140 crore, Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna commits ₹2,000 crore for just 3 crore residents, translating into nearly ten times higher investment per person.

The difference is not just financial, but structural. Where the national scheme limits both eligibility and coverage at ₹5 lakh, Punjab’s model extends ₹10 lakh cashless healthcare to every resident without conditions. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has positioned universal healthcare not as a targeted benefit, but as a guaranteed right, ensuring that access to treatment is determined by need, not by inclusion in a government list.

For most Indian families, a medical emergency brings two immediate worries: how quickly treatment can begin, and how the cost will be managed. Addressing both concerns through a universal approach, the Punjab Government under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has allocated ₹2,000 crore in the 2026–27 Budget for the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna (MMSY), extending cashless health coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family to nearly 3 crore residents across 65 lakh families.

Unlike targeted schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, the Punjab model is built on universal coverage, ensuring that every resident is included without eligibility barriers.

The difference between the two approaches is fundamental. MMSY does not ask who qualifies. Every resident of Punjab is covered, regardless of income. Ayushman Bharat, launched in 2018, is limited to families identified as economically vulnerable through the SECC database. A large section of the population, particularly the lower and middle-income groups not captured in that database, continues to remain outside its ambit.

The extent of coverage further highlights this gap. Ayushman Bharat has offered ₹5 lakh per family per year since its launch, a limit that has remained unchanged despite rising healthcare costs. MMSY doubles this coverage to ₹10 lakh, while also extending protection to families who were previously excluded from government-backed healthcare altogether.

The difference is equally visible in financial commitment. The Central Government’s allocation of ₹9,500 crore for a population of 140 crore contrasts with Punjab’s ₹2,000 crore for 3 crore residents. On a per capita basis, Punjab’s investment is significantly higher, reflecting a clear prioritisation of accessible and comprehensive healthcare.

MMSY also expands the scope of treatment. Beneficiaries can access cashless care for a wide range of serious conditions, including heart disease, cancer, kidney ailments, orthopaedic procedures, and accident-related injuries, across 2,300 treatment packages. In comparison, Ayushman Bharat covers around 1,900 packages. The underlying principle is clear: treatment decisions are driven by medical need, not financial capacity.

The process of accessing the scheme marks another shift. Under Ayushman Bharat, families must first verify whether they are listed in the SECC database, and those excluded must navigate additional documentation to establish eligibility. In contrast, MMSY simplifies access. Residents can enrol at Seva Kendras or Common Service Centres, or apply online using Aadhaar or Voter ID, without the need for income certificates or occupation proof. To ensure wider reach, trained youth club members are conducting door-to-door campaigns, helping families register and receive their Sehat Cards at home.

For families previously outside the scope of government healthcare, the impact is already visible. In Moga, a 98-year-old woman, Mukhtiar Kaur, received specialised treatment, including chemotherapy-related care, fully covered under the scheme. At an age where continuity of care is critical, access through the Sehat Card ensured that treatment began without delay or financial stress.

Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Balbir Singh said the scheme reflects a deliberate shift in policy direction. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna is built on a clear approach, that healthcare coverage should extend to every resident, not just a selected few. With higher per-person investment, Punjab is ensuring that access to treatment is defined by need, not eligibility or income,” he said.

With more than 9 lakh Sehat Cards already issued, beneficiaries are accessing treatment across a growing network of 900 empanelled hospitals, expanding the reach of healthcare across Punjab.

In a country where a single hospital bill can push families into debt, the contrast is no longer just administrative, it is philosophical. One model limits care through eligibility lists; the other guarantees it as a public right.

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*Second Chances: Rehabilitation & Jobs Drive Ground-Level Impact of Bhagwant Mann Government’s Anti-Drug Campaign in Punjab*

CHANDIGARH, March 22:Punjab is witnessing a steady shift in its fight against drugs, as the Bhagwant Mann Government’s 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' (anti-drug campaign) expands its focus from enforcement to rehabilitation and reintegration. Alongside action against trafficking networks, structured support for treatment and employment is helping affected individuals return to stable, productive lives.

Jugraj Singh (name changed) represents this transition. Introduced to drugs during his college years through peer influence, what began as experimentation soon turned into dependence. Today, he is focused on completing his studies and rebuilding his future. “I feel I have become a better person,” he said.

With the support of rehabilitation services and counselling linked to Yudh Nashean Virudh, Jugraj has been able to regain control of his life and redirect his focus toward education and long-term stability.

For Anand Kumar (name changed), addiction had direct economic consequences. A small business he once managed began to collapse as substance use took over his routine and decision-making. “At one point I felt I had lost everything,” he recalled.

Following treatment at a rehabilitation centre and consistent family support, Anand began rebuilding his life. Employment opportunities extended to recovering individuals helped him regain financial stability and restore a sense of purpose.

Balwinder Singh’s (name changed) experience reflects the long-term personal cost of addiction. Once a trader with a stable family life, he describes how substance use gradually eroded both his health and social standing. "At first it feels enjoyable, but eventually it destroys everything,” he said.

After undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, Balwinder is now on the path to recovery, with improved health and renewed focus on rebuilding his future.

These accounts reflect a broader approach adopted by the AAP Government, where the fight against drugs is not limited to enforcement but includes sustained efforts to reintegrate individuals into society. Under Yudh Nashean Virudh, rehabilitation, counselling, and livelihood support are being aligned to ensure that recovery translates into long-term stability.

A consistent pattern is emerging across cases: employment is central to preventing relapse. A stable job not only provides financial independence but also restores discipline, dignity, and social acceptance. “Work keeps the mind focused. It helps you move forward,” Anand said.

As the Bhagwant Mann Government continues to expand Yudh Nashean Virudh, these recovery journeys highlight a deeper structural shift, where individuals are not only freed from addiction but are also supported in rebuilding their lives with stability and purpose.

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*Mann Government takes a strong step towards women’s health and dignity—₹127.95 crore directly transferred to beneficiaries’ accounts: Dr. Baljit Kaur*

*Over 2.89 lakh mothers receive financial support, says Dr. Baljit Kaur; assistance reaches households across the state*

*Continuous efforts to ensure benefits reach every eligible woman, asserts Dr. Baljit Kaur as registration drive intensifies*

Chandigarh, March 22:“Welfare and empowerment of women is the foremost priority of our government,” said Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur. She informed that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is providing financial assistance to ensure the health and well-being of pregnant women and lactating mothers.

Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur said that from the financial year 2023-24 to 2025-26, a total amount of ₹127.95 crore has been transferred directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring hassle-free and transparent delivery of benefits.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further highlighted that more than 2.89 lakh women have benefited from this financial assistance initiative during this period. “This support is not merely financial aid but a strong protective shield for the health of mothers and newborns,” she said, adding that the initiative has brought a sense of security, trust and well-being to thousands of families.

Under this initiative, eligible women receive ₹5,000 for the first child in two instalments (₹3,000 + ₹2,000) through DBT. Additionally, if the second child is a girl, a one-time financial assistance of ₹6,000 is provided to encourage the birth of the girl child.

Sharing year-wise details, Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that during the financial year 2023-24, an amount of ₹38.11 crore was disbursed to 76,478 women. In 2024-25, the amount increased to ₹63.78 crore, benefiting 1,43,418 women. Similarly, in the financial year 2025-26 (till January 31, 2026), ₹26.06 crore has already been disbursed to 69,110 women.

She further added that the government is making focused efforts to cover more women under the scheme. During 2023-24, over 1.32 lakh women were registered, while in 2024-25, more than 1.14 lakh registrations were recorded. For 2025-26, a target of registering at least 1.14 lakh women has been set, out of which 1.05 lakh women have already been registered as of February 11, 2026. Efforts are underway to achieve the remaining target.

The Minister clarified that along with registration, eligible beneficiaries are being provided payments in instalments as per norms, and remaining cases are processed for release of funds upon completion of formalities.

“Our goal is clear—no eligible woman should be deprived of this assistance,” said Dr. Baljit Kaur, reiterating that the Punjab Government remains committed to strengthening such welfare initiatives to ensure the health, safety and empowerment of women across the state.