Punjab Govt goes extra mile ; historic decision to check illegal mining

• CM Mann led cabinet gives Nod to enactment of Punjab Regulation of Crusher Units Act 2025

Chandigarh, March 26:Taking a historic decision to check the illegal mining in state, the Punjab Cabinet led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday nod for the enactment of the Punjab Regulation of

Crusher Units Act 2025.

A decision to this effect was taken in the meeting of the Council of Ministers held here under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister here at his official residence.

The Cabinet have approved to bring this act in the ongoing session of the state assembly. This will strengthen the Department in regulating the activities of Crusher Units and Screening Plants which are engaged in processing of sand and gravel. This will in turn help in checking illegal mining operations in the state by promoting legal mining in

the state.

Gives consent to amend the Indian Stamp Act, 1899

The Cabinet also gave consent to amend the Indian Stamp Act, 1899, to promote a business-friendly environment in the state. This amendment aims to reduce business costs and boost economic growth in Punjab. It stipulates that if a person has already paid stamp duty on a loan and later transfers it to another bank or financial institution without changing the mortgaged property, no additional stamp duty will be charged—unless the new loan amount exceeds the previous one, in which case duty will be charged only on the excess.

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Punjab Finance Minister Presents a Budget for All-Round Development: Tarunpreet Singh Sond

₹3,500 crore to be spent on the overall development of villages.

₹2,873 crore to be spent on the construction and upgradation of rural link roads.

Historic provision of ₹250 crore to provide financial incentives to industries

Proposal to build a Unity Mall in Amritsar, with ₹80 crore allocated.

₹10 crore budget for the upgradation of the Research and Development Centre and the Auto Parts and Hand Tools Technology Institute in Ludhiana.

A series of state-level commemorative events dedicated to the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji announced.

Chandigarh, March 26:Punjab Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Industries and Commerce, Investment Promotion, and Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, has described the Punjab Budget 2025 as an all-round development budget for ‘Badalda Punjab.’ He stated that while this budget makes special efforts for the development of all villages in Punjab, it also prioritizes the prosperity of industries. Additionally, it focuses on preserving and showcasing Punjab’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Sond emphasized that Punjab’s development is incomplete without transforming its villages. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has presented a detailed package to uplift infrastructure in all 12,581 villages of the state over the next two years. Under the slogan “Badalde Pind, Badalda Punjab,” the budget focuses on:Cleaning and rejuvenation of village ponds, Setting up sewage treatment systems as per the Seechewal-Thapar model and other cost-effective models,Restoring Nehri Khaals to provide canal water,Construction of village playgrounds, Installation of streetlights under the Mukh Mantri Street Light Yojana.A total of ₹3,500 crore has been allocated for these initiatives.

Sond also expressed gratitude to the Finance Minister for allocating ₹2,873 crore for the construction and upgradation of 18,944 km of rural link roads, which will be undertaken by the Punjab Mandi Board in the financial year 2025-26.

Furthermore, he praised the Finance Minister for steps taken to boost industries and for announcing a new industrial policy. He highlighted that these efforts will foster the growth of both small and large businesses, creating more quality jobs for the youth. Notably, the budget allocates ₹250 crore for financial incentives to industries—the highest in Punjab’s history. In contrast, the previous government spent only ₹53 crore over five years, while the one before that spent nothing at all.

To further promote national integration and showcase Punjab’s industrial and cultural diversity, the state government has proposed the construction of a Unity Mall in Amritsar. This mall will feature stalls representing all states/UTs and Punjab’s 23 districts, providing a platform for artisans and entrepreneurs to display and market their products. The government has allocated ₹80 crore for this project in the FY 2025-26 budget.

The budget also includes special provisions for MSMEs. To drive innovation and competitiveness, Punjab is facilitating the establishment of Technology Extension Centers (TEC) in key industrial hubs, including Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Moga, Patiala, and Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali). Sond welcomed the dedicated allocation of ₹10 crore for the upgradation of the Research and Development (R&D) Centre and the Institute of Auto Parts and Hand Tools Technology (IAHT) in Ludhiana.

The budget also places a strong emphasis on tourism and cultural promotion. To honor the 350th martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, a series of state-level commemorative events will be held in FY 2025-26. Additionally, infrastructure development at sites associated with Guru Sahib’s visits will be undertaken, with a special focus on the holistic development of Sri Anandpur Sahib, the city founded by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

A dedicated ₹10 crore budget has been earmarked to develop Nangal into a tourism hub by enhancing its infrastructure and promoting it as a key tourist destination.

In FY 2025-26, the government also proposes to construct a Heritage Street and an auditorium in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar at a cost of ₹54 crore. Additionally, 32 cultural programs, festivals, and plays on historical personalities will be organized across the state, reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to preserving its glorious history and cultural traditions.

Tarunpreet Singh Sond expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema for allocating ₹204 crore in the FY 2025-26 budget for these cultural and tourism initiatives.

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Punjab Budget: Funds worth Rs. 5983 crore set aside to ensure facelift of cities : Dr. Ravjot Singh

Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar and SAS Nagar (Mohali) to witness major reforms during next financial year, world class roads to be made at a cost of Rs. 140 crore

Makes provisions of Rs. 225 crore Punjab Municipal Development Fund and Rs. 300 crore under PMSIP

347 e-Buses to be procured for efficient, affordable, environment friendly public transportation system across state

City roads, footpaths, electricity system, traffic and street lights, water supply lines and bus stands to get transformation

Chandigarh, March 26:Punjab Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh on Wednesday described the Punjab Budget-2025 a visionary document, which would further bolster the state's overall development, growth and welfare of people as Rs. 5983 crore has been set aside for complete facelift of cities.

Terming the budget pro-people, Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh pointed out that during the ensuing financial year the urban area would get massive infrastructure improvement in terms of roads, footpaths, electricity system, traffic and street lights, water supply and bus stands to ensure seamless and environment friendly movement. With the visionary approach of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is witnessing unprecedented transformation to facilitate people with the requisite facilities, said Dr. Ravjot Singh adding that the budget presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema would bring record development in the state.

Dr. Ravjot Singh mentioned that in first phase, four big cities namely Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar and SAS Nagar (Mohali) would also get immense and holistic development. The Cabinet Minister also mentioned that the road infrastructure in the said cities would be made of world class as provisions of Rs. 140 crore had been made in the budget. The services of country's renowned architects will be hired to make the plan of these roads as per the international standards, which are to be constructed and maintained by the contractors for the next 10 years. He said as per the plan footpaths would be constructed beautifully without any hinder in all cities.

The Local Government Minister said a blueprint would be made for roads in the cities in complete uniformity, similar width in all cities besides doing away traffic hurdles. It will also be ensured that the lane marking of roads should be as per stipulated standards and lanes will be repainted after every three months, he added.

Dr. Ravjot Singh also informed that the Budget had also provisions of Rs. 225 crore Punjab Municipal Development Fund and Rs. 300 crore funds under PMSIP, which would further improve the facilities in 166 towns across the state having 40 percent urban population with sanitisation arrangements, water supply & sewerage system, roads and street lights. He said that Punjab Government would also procure 347 e-buses to provide facility of efficient, environment friendly public transport system to the people as well as curtaining the dependency on individual vehicles.

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Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur Lauds Punjab Budget 2025-26

Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, ensures inclusive welfare provisions in the budget

Budget presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema—a step forward towards 'Rangla Punjab'

Proposal to allocate ₹9,340 crore for the welfare of marginalized sections

Loan waivers announced through PSCFC for loans taken till March 31, 2020; major relief for 4,650 beneficiaries

₹450 crore allocated for free bus travel for women; scheme to continue next year as well

Chandigarh, March 26:Punjab's Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur praised the budget presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, describing it as a crucial initiative for the welfare of the common people, financially struggling families, and marginalized communities.

Dr. Baljit Kaur highlighted that the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation (PSCFC) has announced a complete waiver of loans taken until March 31, 2020, providing significant relief to 4,650 beneficiaries. She emphasized that this decision would help distressed families regain financial stability.

She further stated that the government has allocated ₹9,340 crore to ensure social justice and equality. These funds will be utilized to provide financial assistance to the elderly, widows, destitute women, orphaned children, and persons with disabilities.

Dr. Baljit Kaur also commended the budget’s focus on women's convenience and economic empowerment. She noted that the free bus travel facility, which has played a vital role in enhancing women's mobility and economic independence, will continue in the coming year. Over the past year, more than 12 crore women have benefited from this initiative, for which ₹450 crore has been earmarked.

She asserted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is continuously working towards making the state a 'Rangla Punjab.' The budget prioritizes the economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, minorities, and marginalized sections by allocating ₹13,987 crore, which accounts for 34% of the state's total development budget.

Dr. Baljit Kaur expressed hope that this budget would contribute to the progress of all sections of Punjab, promote social justice and equality, and serve as a milestone in making the people of Punjab prosperous and self-reliant.

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Clean drinking water and better sanitation facilities for rural population given priority in Punjab Budget

Mundian expresses deep gratitude to Chief Minister and Finance Minister

A budget of Rs. 1614 Crore will help in speeding up the implementation of surface water based schemes and strengthening rural sanitation/cleanliness

Chandigarh, March 26-Presenting the fourth budget of the State Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced to launch various major schemes for the overall development of the state, while also giving special attention to the Water Supply and Sanitation Department.

Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Hardip Singh Mundian expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister and the Finance Minister on behalf of the people of the state and his department for the steps taken towards providing clean drinking water and better sanitation facilities to the rural population in the budget for the year 2025-26 and for proposing a budget outlay of Rs. 1614 Crore.

Mr. Mundian further said that the budget of Rs. 1614 Crore will be of great help in expediting the implementation of surface water based schemes, rehabilitation of old infrastructure and strengthening rural sanitation/cleanliness under Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin). This includes provision for upgrading/providing pipeline water supply in 176 villages of the state and providing clean and pure water.

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New Budget aims for comprehensive development of urban areas; residents to enjoy world-class facilities – Mundian

Cabinet Minister thanks finance minister for announcing projects for Ludhiana

Ultra-modern roads, e-buses, civil bus depot, urban governance, better water services to be provided

Chandigarh, March 26-Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Hardip Singh Mundian stated on Wednesday that the budget presented by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema will transform the cities of the state and ensure world-class facilities to urban residents, with an allocation of ₹5,983 crores for 2025-26.

Mundian noted that 40 percent of Punjab's population lives in urban areas, which is why these regions received significant boosts in the budget. He expressed gratitude to the government for key announcements made for the major cities of Punjab, especially Ludhiana. He stated that approximately 50 kilometres of world-class roads will be developed in four cities including Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar and SAS Nagar over the next year. ₹225 crores has been allocated under the Punjab Municipal Development Fund for the upgrade of road infrastructure and to ensure the uniform provision of five essential municipal services across all 166 towns and cities in Punjab: cleanliness, water supply, sewage, roads, and street lights.

Furthermore, an allocation of ₹300 crores for the Punjab Municipal Services Improvement Project (PMSIP) will enhance urban governance, financial management, and the delivery of sustainable water services to the citizens of Ludhiana. A total of 367 E-buses will be procured for Ludhiana, ensuring sustainable and accessible urban mobility across cities in Punjab, along with the development of Civil Bus Depot infrastructure in Ludhiana.

Under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance Scheme, the state is implementing projects worth ₹120 crores to improve market access, financial assistance, and technology adoption for small enterprises. This also includes the establishment of a Technology Extension Centre in key industrial hubs and ₹10 crores for the upgrade of the R&S Centre and the Institute of Auto Parts and Hand Tools Technology (IAHT) in Ludhiana.

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Punjab Budget 2025-2026: Establishes a well calibrated approach: Laljit Singh Bhullar

Announces to purchase of 347 e-buses

Rs. 100 crore proposed for construction, renovation and upgradation of jail infrastructure

Praises Finance Minister for maintained perfect equilibrium

Chandigarh, March 26-Punjab Transport and Jails Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar said that the budget presented by the Punjab government will further accelerate holistic development of the state.

In a statement issued here today, the Cabinet Minister lauded the budget and said that the state has been moving forward on the path of development from last three years and the total budget expenditure for the financial year 2025-2026 has been proposed at Rs. 2,36,080 crore. He said that the Punjab Budget has presented a concept of revitalization of rural Punjab, under which all-round development of villages will be possible.

The Cabinet Minister said that the budget presented has proposed to purchase 347 e-buses with this step, while an environment-friendly public transport system will be established, the dependence on private vehicles will also be reduced.

S. Bhullar said that Rs 100 crore has been proposed for construction, renovation and upgradation of jail infrastructure in Punjab. He said that Punjab has implemented key security and rehabilitation measures to further improve jail management and welfare of prisoners. Similarly, AI-powered CCTV surveillance is being installed in central jails to detect and prevent illegal activities and V-cams are being expanded in 12 sensitive jails.

He praised the ‘Rangla Punjab Development Scheme’ and said that a provision of Rs. 585 crore has been made for this scheme, which will be spent on the essential things of the people of every district. He said that this fund will be spent on the basis of recommendations of the citizens and this initiative will ensure all-round development like construction and repair of roads and bridges, street lights, clinics, hospitals, schools, water and sanitation etc.

S. Bhullar further said that the proposals of Punjab Budget 2025-2026 will take Punjab on the path of progress and further enhance the economic development of the state. He said that this budget will bring positive reforms in Punjab and further strengthen the foundation of a prosperous and self-reliant Punjab.

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Proposal to install cat's eyes to prevent road accidents under consideration: Harbhajan Singh ETO

Chandigarh, 26 March:Punjab PWD Minister S. Harbhajan Singh ETO on Wednesday informed the House that the proposal to install cat's eye reflectors on roads is under consideration of the department so as to prevent road mishaps especially during the foggy weather in winter.

Referring to concern raised by the Patiala MLA Ajitpal Singh Kohli, the PWD Minister stated that the department was already contemplating to put such reflectors on roads for the public safety. He said that upgradation of 390 KM of national highwyas and 1287 km of state roads (State Highway MDR ODR) had been upgraded along with the white strip work by the contractors, which would be maintained for the three years by the concerned contractors. Responding to a supplementary question by the MLA, the Minister informed that the Punjab government is considering the installation of cat's eye on roads, which will prove helpful in preventing accidents.

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MUKH MANTRI SARBAT SEHAT BIMA YOJNA: PUNJAB HEALTH MINISTER CALLS BUDGET GAME-CHANGER AS PUNJAB DOUBLES INSURANCE COVER TO ₹10L, EXTENDS SCHEME TO EVERY PUNJABI

— HEALTH BUDGET HIKED BY 10%, MEDICAL EDUCATION SEES 27% BOOST UNDER LEADERSHIP OF CM BHAGWANT SINGH MANN

— AAM AADMI CLINICS, FARISHTEY SCHEME & YOGA EXPANSION—PUNJAB’S HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE OVERHAUL

— PUNJAB BECOMES FIRST STATE TO OFFER UNIVERSAL HEALTH INSURANCE FOR ALL FAMILIES, SAYS DR BALBIR SINGH

— NEW MEDICAL COLLEGE COMING IN SBS NAGAR: DR BALBIR SINGH

CHANDIGARH, March 26:In a pathbreaking move to ensure universal access to quality healthcare services, Punjab Health and Medical Education and Research Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Tuesday, hailed the enhanced budget allocation in the Health and Medical Education sectors as “transformational” for the crucial sector. He particularly lauded the decision of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government to cover every citizen of the state under Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojna and double the insurance cover from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh per family annually.

Pertinently, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema presented the historic ‘Badalda Punjab’ Budget for financial year 2025-26 at Vidhan Sabha here on Tuesday.

The health sector budget has been enhanced by 10 percent, reaching ₹5,598 crores— to strengthen infrastructure, expand Aam Aadmi Clinics, and improve emergency care under the FARISHTEY Scheme, while, the Medical Education and Research has received 27 percent budget increase to ₹1,336 crore.

Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh, while terming the budget as historic and progressive, said that the move to bring all the 65 lakh families of the state under the Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana is a game-changer, which will ensure that no citizen of the Punjab state will ever have to worry about medical expenses again.

As per the information, currently only 45 lakh families are covered under health insurance scheme—16 lakh under the Central government’s Ayushman Bharat and 29 lakh under Punjab’s SSBY.

The Health Minister said that the new budget has removed all eligibility restrictions, extending coverage to every household in the state, regardless of income or location. This is for the first time in Punjab’s history that every single family—urban or rural, rich or poor—will have health security, he added.

He clarified that families enrolled in Central Government’s Ayushman Bharat will too receive an additional ₹5 lakh top-up from the state, bringing their total insurance cover to ₹10 lakh. Additionally, all beneficiaries will receive Sehat Cards, enabling cashless treatment at both government and private empaneled hospitals, he added.

Dr Balbir Singh said that in financial year 2025-26, Punjab Government will also be establishing a new Medical College with 50 MBBS seats at village Barnala Kalan in SBS Nagar.

He said that following the success of "CM Di Yogshala" program, which currently benefitting 1.5 lakh residents through 3200 daily yoga sessions, will now expand to reach two lakh participants.

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Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak expresses gratitude for allocation of Rs. 281 Crore to Forest Department in Budget

Special focus to be laid on developing Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary in Sri Anandpur Sahib

Chandigarh, March 26:The Forest and Wildlife Preservation Department has been allocated Rs. 281 crore for Financial Year 2025-26 in the budget presented by the Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema today in the Vidhan Sabha.

Profusely thanking the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the Finance Minister, the Forest Minister Mr. Lal Chand Kataruchak said that to promote eco-tourism in Punjab, special focus will be placed on developing the Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary in Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Underlining the commitment of the State Government to ensure environmental conservation and wildlife protection, Mr. Kataruchak added that various initiatives to enhance green cover and biodiversity in the State are being undertaken. So far, around 3 crore saplings have been planted, including 29 lakh around tube-wells, while 268 Nanak Bagichies and 46 Pavittar Vans are being developed in the current year to promote ecological balance.

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PUNJAB TO DEVELOP NANGAL INTO TOURIST HUB, ANANDPUR SAHIB’S JHAJJAR BACHAULI SET TO BECOME STATE’S FIRST LEOPARD SAFARI DESTINATION

•EM Bains thanks Punjab Govt for allocating a special budget for the preparations of 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji

• Bains terms the “Badalda Punjab” Budget a landmark

Chandigarh, March 26:In a significant move to promote heritage, tourism, and wildlife conservation in the state, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has unveiled game-changing plans to develop Nangal as Punjab’s next big tourist hotspot and develop Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary of Sri Anandpur Sahib into a thrilling eco-tourism destination allowing visitors to spot leopards and other wildlife in their natural habitat, said S. Harjot Singh Bains, Education Minister and MLA from Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema, while presenting the historic ‘Badalda Punjab’ Budget for financial year 2025-26, mentioned about the overall development and facelift of Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency. The Punjab government has also allocated a special budget for the preparations of the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji.

The Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, while terming the budget as a landmark, said that Nangal will be transformed into a key tourist destination with an initial allocation of Rs 10 crore budget. The initiative aims to enhance facilities, promote local attractions, and create employment opportunities in the hospitality sector, he said.

Apart from this, he said that Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary in Sri Anandpur Sahib will be developed as eco-tourism destination. “Once completed, it will become Punjab’s first wildlife sanctuary where visitors can spot leopards and other wildlife in their natural habitat,” he added.

While thanking the Punjab government for allocating a special budget for the preparations of the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, the Education Minister emphasised that Sri Anandpur Sahib, a city of immense historical and religious importance, will receive special attention in terms of infrastructure and cultural development to honour the occasion.

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HARJOT BAINS HAILS BUDGET HISTORIC AS PUNJAB EARMARKS MASSIVE ALLOCATION OF 12% OF TOTAL EXPENDITURE

• Rs.17975-CR budget allocation to help revolutionising education sector, says EM Bains

• Punjab relies on quality learning, holistic development, sustainable infrastructure & inclusive growth to make state a national leader in education field

Chandigarh, March 26:Punjab School, Higher & Technical Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains, today praised the state budget 2025-26 as a landmark step towards educational transformation, with a massive allocation of Rs.17975 crore (12% of a total expenditure) for the education sector. The budget focuses on strengthening school education through Mission Samrath, which has already benefited 14 lakh students across 19,000 schools, improving learning outcomes by 15-25%. He said that these key initiatives include Rs.1240 crore for Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, Rs.466 crore for PM Poshan, Rs.75 crore for free books and Rs.35 crore for uniforms. The government is converting 425 primary schools into 'Schools of Happiness' and has solar-powered 4098 schools, mentioned Harjot Singh Bains.

In higher education, Rs.199 crore has been allocated under RUSA and Rs.160 crore for infrastructure upgrades, while technical education gets Rs.579 crore, including Rs.33 crore for new ITIs, building on this year's record 93.04% admission rate in government ITIs, said the Education Minister, while emphasizing Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government's commitment to global standards, having sent hundreds of educators for training to premier institutions. "This budget showcases our four pillars of educational excellence i.e. quality learning, holistic development, sustainable infrastructure and inclusive growth, to make Punjab a national leader in education field," he stated.

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TRANSFORMATIVE BUDGET MARKS SIGNIFICANT STRIDE IN WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, ASSERTS MINISTER BARINDER KUMAR GOYAL

Says, Punjab unveils strategic Rs.3246-CR water management budget to revive agricultural potential

"Shahpur Kandi Dam project anchors massive infrastructure push for hydroelectricity and irrigation"

Government tackles groundwater crisis with targeted interventions across 63000 hectares

Chandigarh, March 26:Punjab Water Resources Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal today hailed the state government's fourth budget as an exceptionally strategic, forward-looking and comprehensive roadmap for sustainable water management and agricultural development.

Listing the budget highlights, Minister Sh. Goyal asserted Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led government's commitment to addressing critical water challenges through innovative and targeted interventions.

He informed that in the Budget 2025-26, the Shahpur Kandi Dam Project emerges as a cornerstone of the government's visionary infrastructure planning, with a substantial investment of Rs.2604-CR. This landmark project is poised to generate 1042 MU of hydroelectricity and enhance irrigation across 1.55 lakh hectares in the Upper Bari Doab Canal (UBDC) system. The project will directly benefit districts including Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran and Pathankot, marking a significant milestone in the state's water resource management strategy.

He said that recognizing the critical groundwater situation, where extraction rates have reached an alarming 166% with 117 out of 153 blocks being overexploited, the Mann government has developed a comprehensive strategy for the fiscal year 2025-26. The initiatives include the installation of 40 deep tubewells in Rupnagar, SBS Nagar, Hoshiarpur, S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali) and Pathankot and 167 shallow tubewells near the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi rivers. Besides this, the plan encompasses irrigation expansion across 7877 hectares at a total cost of Rs.85-crore. In financial year 2025-26, total 63000 hectares will be covered under these projects, including laying underground pipelines with an estimated cost of Rs.315 crore. The state government has identified Rs.8227 crore worth of surface water projects to expand canal irrigation in previously excluded areas.

Sh. Goyal said that the government has proposed a robust budget allocation of Rs.3246 crore for the upcoming fiscal year, which includes Rs.723 crore for new projects and Rs.1343 crore for ongoing project completion, with a comprehensive focus on watercourse construction, reconstruction and underground pipeline laying. The budget also highlights district-specific interventions in next fiscal year, such as the Sangrur District Initiative, which proposes an underground pipeline network covering 38,000 hectares and benefiting 20,000 farmer families with an initial allocation of Rs.100 crore.

Besides this, a new project is proposed for the reclamation of waterlogged land in Fazilka district, while efforts will also be made to develop irrigation infrastructure, provide micro-irrigation subsidies and implement water harvesting projects in the Kandi area, benefiting 30,000 hectares, he added.

"This budget echoing our government's holistic approach to water resource management," said Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal, adding that we are not just addressing immediate challenges but laying the groundwork for Punjab's sustainable and prosperous agricultural future. The strategic interventions demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to addressing the state's water resource challenges, balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainable development goals, he added.

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‘YUDH NASHIAN VIRUDH’ CONTINUES ON DAY 26 AS PUNJAB POLICE ARRESTS 77 DRUG SMUGGLERS AFTER 483 RAIDS

— PUNJAB POLICE COMMITTED TO MAKING PUNJAB A DRUG-FREE STATE AS PER DIRECTIONS OF CM BHAGWANT SINGH MANN

— DAY LONG OPERATION LEADS TO REGISTRATION OF 55 FIRs, RECOVERY OF 1.1KG HEROIN, ₹13K DRUG MONEY

— OVER 200 POLICE TEAMS LED BY 101 SP/DSP RANK OFFICERS CHECKED 531 SUSPICIOUS PERSONS: SPL DGP ARPIT SHUKLA

CHANDIGARH, March 26: Continuing the war against drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” waged on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state consecutively for the 26th day, Punjab Police on Wednesday conducted raids at 483 locations leading to the arrest of 77 drug smugglers after registration of 55 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 4114 in just 26 days.

Police teams have also recovered 1.1 kg heroin, 301 grams opium and Rs 13570 drug money from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

The operation was conducted on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav simultaneously in all 28 Police districts of the state.

Notably, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has asked the Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police to make Punjab drug free state. The Punjab government has also constituted a 5-member Cabinet Sub Committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema to monitor the war against drugs.

Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla informed that over 200 Police teams, comprising over 1300 police personnel, under the supervision of 101 gazetted officers have conducted raids across the state and checked as many as 531 suspicious persons during the day long operation.

He said that Punjab Police has devised a comprehensive strategy and such operations will be continued till the scourge of drugs eradicated from the state.

The Special DGP said that with the state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of ‘De-addiction’ has convinced four persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment, while, organised 114 awareness events across the state as part of Prevention.

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Bhagwant Mann Government's budget to put Punjab on high growth trajectory: Harbhajan Singh ETO

Chandigarh, March 26:Punjab PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO on Wednesday described the Punjab Budget-2025 presented by Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema as pro-people and pro-state budget. He said Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Government's budget would put Punjab on high growth trajectory covering all sections of society.

PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said that the Budget was comprised of all sectors with a special focus on health, education, agriculture, industry and employment generation besides making provisions under social welfare schemes to provide in larger public interest. Punjab Government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has also ensured rapid strides in Power sector especially the functioning of Powercom upgrading its ranking to 7th place among the power companies across the country. He said that the technical and commercial loss had also been reduced from 11.26 to 10.26.

The concerted efforts of Punjab Government to improve the functioning of Powercom also brought high-quality results in distribution and other sectors besides registering the profit of .25 paise per unit in revenue gap. The Minister also lauded the Punjab Government's endeavour to set aside Rs. 855 crore for construction and up-gradation of 2718 KM roads and link routes, which would further improve the road connectivity, vehicular movement and ease for commuters. Apart from this the decision to earmark Rs. 151 crore and Rs. 190 crore for building new bridges and major infrastructure and upgradation of 200 km are also commendable, he added.

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”BADALDA PUNJAB” BUDGET: PUNJAB ALLOCATES ₹14,524-CR FOR AGRICULTURE WITH MAJOR FOCUS ON CROP DIVERSIFICATION, SAYS KHUDIAN

• Agriculture Minister terms Budget path-breaking by introducing slew of measures for crop diversification

•Farmers to get Rs 17,500 per hectare for switching to Kharif maize cultivation: Gurmeet Singh Khudian

Chandigarh, March 26:To sow the seeds of prosperity in the agriculture sector, Punjab Government has allocated Rs 14,524 crore for the agriculture and allied sectors and introduced a slew of measures for crop diversification in its Budget for the FY 2025-26 to make the agriculture a sustainable and profitable venture, said S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Punjab.

The Agriculture Minister said that “Badalda Punjab” budget, presented today by Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema in the state assembly, a testament to Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s commitment for the welfare of the agrarian community by introducing measures aimed at enhancing farmers’ income and secure their prosperity for generations to come.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that Rs 14,524 crore has been earmarked for the agriculture and allied sectors in next financial year which is 5% higher than last year. A new scheme covering three districts Bathinda, Kapurthala and Gurdaspur would be introduced for Kharif Maize crop and around 21,000 hectare area will be diversified from paddy to kharif maize to encourage the production of ethanol to achieve the target of 20% blending of ethanol by year 2025. The farmers will get a subsidy of Rs 17,500 per hectare for switching to Kharif maize cultivation and will provide benefit to approx. 30,000 farmers, he added.

The Agriculture Minister said that an amount of Rs 115 crore has been earmarked for various initiatives under crop diversification. An allocation of Rs 149 crore has also been made in FY 2025-26 under the Krishonnati Yojana to support critical activities including agriculture extension, enhancing food security, promoting horticulture, seed development, boosting edible oil production and digital agriculture.

In a decisive move towards sustainability and environmental responsibility, the Punjab Government has committed Rs 60 crore in capital subsidies to support industries transitioning to paddy stubble-based boilers. This initiative is expected to utilize 3 million tonnes of paddy stubble annually.

To promote sustainable crop residue management, Rs 500 crore has been earmarked to support farmers, cooperative societies and gram panchayats. Assistance will be provided for the purchase of CRM machines; establishment of Custom Hiring Centers and for the development of Paddy Straw Supply Chain Centers. By implementing eco-friendly alternatives, the state government is committed to curb this menace and ensure both environmental protection and the well-being of our farmers.

Continuing the free-power to farmers, S. Khudian said that an allocation of Rs. 9,992 crore has been made in Budget FY 2025-26 for providing power subsidy to the agriculture sector.

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Punjab Budget Ensures Robust Growth for Jalandhar: Mohinder Bhagat Thanks CM and FM

Rs 137 Crore Allocated for Horticulture Department

Budget Termed Development-Oriented and People-Centric

Chandigarh, March 26-Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat has expressed gratitude to Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Finance Minister S. Harpal Singh Cheema for allocating substantial funds to Jalandhar in the state budget presented in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha today. The Horticulture Minister also welcomed the Rs 137 crore allocation to the Horticulture Department, stating that the funds would significantly boost crop diversification and horticulture development.

Mr. Bhagat informed that around 50 km of world-class roads will be constructed in Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali), with Rs 140 crore earmarked for the first year. The project aims to upgrade key road sections to international standards, integrating lane markings, pedestrian-friendly footpaths, landscaped medians, underground electric wiring, modern street lighting, water supply pipelines, well-equipped bus stands, and organized tree plantations. Notably, the contractors will be bound by a 10-year accountability clause to ensure infrastructure maintenance.

The Minister further informed that Rs 225 crore has been set aside under the Punjab Municipal Development Fund to enhance urban amenities. Additionally, 347 e-buses will be procured, with funds allocated for upgrading civil bus depots in Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Patiala in the 2025-26 financial year. Plans are also in place to establish technology expansion centers in major industrial hubs.

Highlighting the budget’s inclusive approach, Mr. Bhagat stated that significant provisions have been made for anti-drug measures, healthcare, education, sports, infrastructure, agriculture and rural-urban development. He added that special attention has been given to the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes. Emphasizing that no new taxes have been imposed, he asserted that the budget would drive Punjab’s holistic development and benefit every section of society.

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Meet Hayer makes a logical & strong case for opening Regional Cooperative Universities in all States

Not in best of democratic traditions to ignore entire country for just one State

Opposes 'The Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025'

Presents Punjab as leading player of Cooperative sector

Chandigarh/New Delhi, March 26:Putting forth his arguments in an emphatic manner based on logical and constructive criticism, the Aam Aadmi Party MP from Sangrur Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer today stoutly opposed 'The Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025,' in the Lok Sabha, which seeks to turn Institute of Management, Anand (Gujarat) into a University of National importance.

Calling the Cooperative sector as the backbone of the farming as well as the dairy communities of the rural areas, Meet Hayer divulged Maharashtra and more so Punjab has made remarkable strides in the Cooperative sphere. Hence, to centralize a world level institution at one place owing to the obvious political compulsions is at complete crossroads with the ideals of democracy and is it right to ignore the entire country at the altar of just one State. He argued that instead, the Regional Cooperative Universities should be opened in all the States so as to ensure training in technical and management aspects of Cooperative domain at pan India level.

Divulging that as Sports Minister of Punjab, when he demanded funds for the Khelo India games, an amount to the tune of Rs. 1800 Crore was earmarked out of which Rs. 1400 Crore went in the construction of just one stadium in Gujarat while the rest of the States had to fend for themselves with a paltry sum of Rs. 400 Crore.

Showcasing the rapid strides made by the Milkfed and Markfed in the strengthening of Cooperative sector, the MP made a strong case for collaborative approach between all the States to benefit from each other's expertise such as drawing faculty for such a prestigious institution from all over the country and in this context pointed out the prowess of Punjab as the State has eminent experts of National & International repute.

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