Punjab CM Mann urged Punjabis to take a pledge to restore the state’s rich legacy and transform it into a leading, vibrant, and prosperous Rangla Punjab.
Addressing the gathering after hoisting the national flag at the state-level Independence Day function held at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in Faridkot, he extended warm greetings to the people of the country, especially Punjabis. He also paid homage to Sufi saint Baba Farid Ji, calling him the first great poet of Punjabi literature whose verses gave voice to the common people.
Highlighting the unparalleled role of Punjabis in the freedom struggle, the Chief Minister recalled that over 80% of those who laid down their lives or endured British atrocities were from Punjab. He remembered great revolutionaries including Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Udham Singh, Kartar Singh Sarabha and many unsung heroes, noting their supreme sacrifices in movements like Kuka, Ghadar, Babbar Akali, Jallianwala Bagh, Gurdwara Reform, and Jaito Morcha.
Punjab CM Mann said that while the nation celebrated Independence in 1947, Punjab endured the painful tragedy of Partition, losing countless lives and homes. Yet, Punjabis have always been at the forefront whenever India faced threats, whether in defending borders or ensuring food security through their hard work as farmers. He called Independence Day not only a day of celebration but also one of reflection and renewed commitment to the dreams of freedom fighters.
ਦੇਸ਼ ਦੀ ਆਜ਼ਾਦੀ ਦੇ 79ਵੇਂ ਦਿਵਸ ਮੌਕੇ ਮੁੱਖ ਮੰਤਰੀ ਭਗਵੰਤ ਸਿੰਘ ਮਾਨ ਨੇ ਫਰੀਦਕੋਟ ਵਿਖੇ ਤਿਰੰਗਾ ਝੰਡਾ ਲਹਿਰਾਉਣ ਦੀ ਰਸਮ ਅਦਾ ਕੀਤੀ। ਇਸ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਉਨ੍ਹਾਂ ਨੇ ਵੱਖ-ਵੱਖ ਵਿਭਾਗਾਂ ‘ਚ ਵਧੀਆ ਕਾਰਗੁਜ਼ਾਰੀ ਕਰਨ ਵਾਲੇ ਅਧਿਕਾਰੀਆਂ, ਆਜ਼ਾਦੀ ਘੁਲਾਟੀਆਂ ਦੇ ਪਰਿਵਾਰਕ ਮੈਂਬਰਾਂ ਅਤੇ ਹੋਰ ਸ਼ਖ਼ਸੀਅਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸਨਮਾਨਿਤ ਕੀਤਾ।
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On the… pic.twitter.com/wGTVQWVZWq— Government of Punjab (@PbGovtIndia) August 15, 2025
Reiterating his government’s resolve, the CM outlined key initiatives:
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Launch of Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna ensuring free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every family.
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Expansion of Aam Aadmi Clinics, with 881 already functional treating 70,000 patients daily.
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Upgradation of schools into Schools of Eminence, improved NEET and JEE results, and transport facilities for students, especially girls.
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Training opportunities for principals and teachers in reputed institutes abroad.
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Increased ITI seats from 35,000 to 52,000 to strengthen skill-based education.
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Crackdown on drugs through Yudh Nasheyan Virudh, with strong action against peddlers, gangsters, and deployment of anti-drone systems on the border.
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Over 55,000 government jobs given transparently on merit, new sports policy, and construction of modern stadiums to channel youth energy positively.
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Free power to 90% of households since July 2022, saving families up to ₹35,000 annually.
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Industrial investments worth ₹1.14 lakh crore with potential to generate 4.5 lakh jobs.
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Road Safety Force reducing accidents by 48%.
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Environmental efforts including cleaning of 17,000 ponds and launch of Punjab Rural Transformation Fellowship.
The Chief Minister stressed that every rupee of the state exchequer is being spent wisely for public welfare. He called on people to dedicate themselves to building a harmonious, progressive Punjab in line with the vision of martyrs.
The event featured a ceremonial parade by BSF, Punjab Police, and NCC, seven tableaus on state achievements, and vibrant cultural performances including Giddha, Bhangra, and folk dances. Mann also honoured freedom fighter Nihal Singh, families of martyrs, and Kargil heroes for their invaluable contributions.