In a major boost for employment in the state, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann distributed appointment letters to 916 candidates across various departments in Mohali this Wednesday. Under the flagship ‘Mission Rozgar’ initiative, the CM announced that the state has now surpassed 63,943 government recruitments based purely on merit.
Breaking the Cycle of Bribery
Addressing a gathering at Vikas Bhawan, CM Mann emphasized a shift in governance, contrasting current recruitment drives with past administrations.
Transparency First: The CM asserted that not a single one of the nearly 64,000 appointments has been challenged in court.
Merit-Based Growth: Jobs are being awarded without “recommendations” (sifarish) or bribery, a move Mann says honors the dreams of martyrs like Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh.
Uninterrupted Process: The CM promised that more appointment letters would be issued in the coming days as the government continues to fill vacant posts through a “foolproof” mechanism.
Beyond Jobs: A 360° Welfare Update
The event wasn’t just about employment; CM Mann used the platform to highlight significant updates to Punjab’s social safety net:
1. Healthcare: Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna
The state’s flagship health reform has seen a massive upgrade. Cashless treatment limits have doubled from Rs.5 lakh to Rs.10 lakh, benefiting approximately 65 lakh families. Additionally, 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are now operational, providing free medicines and tests.
2. Financial Relief for Citizens
Free Electricity: 90% of Punjab households are now reportedly receiving zero-cost electricity bills.
Toll Savings: The closure of 19 toll plazas across the state is saving the public an estimated Rs. 64 lakh every day.
Voices from the Ground
The impact of the merit-based system was echoed by the newly appointed youth:
Dr. Mukesh: Securing his third government job via transparent exams, Mukesh dedicated his success to his late mother, promising to improve healthcare for others.
Jaspreet Kaur (Cooperative Inspector): Shared that she secured her position without a single bribe, proving that “hard work pays off” in the new system.
Veterinary Officer Dr. Kamalpreet Singh: Highlighted how transparent hiring is bridging the gap between farmers and the Animal Husbandry Department.
“I urge the youth to discharge their duties with utmost professional commitment and use their pen wisely in the service of the people.” — CM Bhagwant Singh Mann
What’s Next?
With infrastructure, education, and law and order listed as top priorities, the Punjab government plans to continue its aggressive recruitment drive through 2026.