Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, while addressing a state-level event on the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Patiala, stated that the state government is working tirelessly to uplift the weaker and marginalized sections of society, fulfilling the vision of Dr. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Indian Constitution.
Calling Dr. Ambedkar a global icon—a jurist, economist, social reformer, and statesman—Mann highlighted his unmatched contribution to justice and equality. Despite his humble beginnings, Ambedkar’s influence on world history and democratic values is extraordinary, he noted.
CM Bhagwant urged everyone to walk the path shown by Dr. Ambedkar, rising above caste, religion, and narrow identities to build an inclusive and just society. He emphasized that Ambedkar championed equality not only in social spheres but also in economic and political domains.
Underscoring the role of education in eradicating poverty and social evils, Mann said that the Punjab government is prioritizing education over handouts, aligning with Baba Saheb’s philosophy. He cited several initiatives, including the appointment of six SC ministers, reservation in the AG office, and timely disbursement of SC scholarships, as steps towards realizing Ambedkar’s dreams.
CM Bhagwant added that efforts are underway to revamp government schools and health infrastructure across the state. “We want parents to choose government schools over private ones, not out of compulsion, but because of the quality,” he said. Schools of Eminence are being built, and teachers are receiving advanced training, including exposure visits abroad.
CM Bhagwant strongly condemned recent incidents of vandalism of Dr. Ambedkar’s statues by anti-social elements, warning that such actions will not be tolerated and the offenders will face strict punishment.
Calling for women’s empowerment, he encouraged girls to pursue education and leadership roles in society and politics. He praised the increasing participation of girls across fields once dominated by men.
Highlighting job creation,CM Bhagwant proudly shared that over 54,000 government jobs have been provided on merit, without corruption or favoritism, helping youth contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
On the issue of drugs, he criticized previous regimes for allowing the drug mafia to thrive. His government, CM Bhagwant said, is waging a full-scale war on drugs, arresting kingpins, seizing their property, and launching a public WhatsApp helpline (9779100200) to gather community support in combating this menace.
CM Bhagwant also announced a series of events across Punjab to mark the 350th martyrdom year of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, with developmental efforts planned for associated historic sites.
Striking a personal note, he fondly recalled his days as a university student and performer, encouraging youth to value their education as a tool for shaping a successful and meaningful life.
Earlier in the event, Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljeet Kaur and other dignitaries also paid homage to Dr. Ambedkar.