Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Calls for Renewed Commitment to a ‘Rangla Punjab’
Faridkot, August 15 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday issued a passionate appeal to the people of Punjab to unite in restoring the state’s historic pride and transforming it into a vibrant and leading state in India – a true ‘Rangla Punjab’.
Speaking at the state-level Independence Day celebration after hoisting the national flag at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in Faridkot, CM Mann congratulated all Indians, particularly Punjabis, on the occasion. He also paid tribute to the revered Sufi saint Baba Farid Ji, acknowledging his legacy as the first major poet of Punjabi literature who used the language of the common people.
The Chief Minister highlighted the unmatched role of Punjabis in India’s freedom struggle, noting that over 80% of those who faced British persecution or laid down their lives were from Punjab. He honored iconic martyrs including Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Udham Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, and many others whose sacrifices in movements like Ghadar, Babbar Akali, Kuka, and Jallianwala Bagh continue to inspire generations. He also reflected on the tragedy of Partition, during which countless Punjabis suffered immense loss.
CM Mann emphasized that even after Independence, Punjabis have consistently stood at the forefront in defending the nation during times of both internal and external challenges. He praised the state’s farmers for their crucial role in achieving food self-sufficiency for India and acknowledged the contributions of Punjabis in nation-building.
He reiterated that Independence Day is not only a celebration but a moment of reflection and resolve. Mann urged citizens to renew their commitment to the ideals of the freedom fighters by building a harmonious and equitable society.
ਆਜ਼ਾਦੀ ਦਿਹਾੜੇ ਮੌਕੇ ਲੋਕਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਸੰਬੋਧਨ ਕਰਦਿਆਂ ਮੁੱਖ ਮੰਤਰੀ @BhagwantMann ਨੇ ਕਿਹਾ ਕਿ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਹਰ ਮਹੀਨੇ ਹਰ ਘਰ ਨੂੰ 300 ਯੂਨਿਟ ਮੁਫ਼ਤ ਬਿਜਲੀ ਅਤੇ ਸੂਬੇ ਦੇ ਕਿਸਾਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਖੇਤੀ ਲਈ ਦਿਨ ਸਮੇਂ ਮੁਫ਼ਤ ਬਿਜਲੀ ਸਪਲਾਈ ਅਤੇ ਨਹਿਰੀ ਪਾਣੀ ਦੀ ਸੌਗ਼ਾਤ ਦਿੱਤੀ ਜਾ ਰਹੀ ਹੈ।#GovernmentOfPunjab pic.twitter.com/x3LCagNWbQ
— Government of Punjab (@PbGovtIndia) August 15, 2025
Commitment to Peace, Heritage & Development
CM Mann reaffirmed his government’s dedication to maintaining communal harmony and peace. He noted the special significance of the ongoing 350th martyrdom anniversary celebrations of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, with development plans underway for towns and villages blessed by the Guru’s presence.
He spoke about the significant strides made under his leadership, asserting that the Punjab government is working relentlessly to fulfill the dreams of the freedom fighters. Mann highlighted the state’s success in implementing several of its key promises.
Healthcare, Education & Welfare
The Chief Minister outlined major initiatives such as the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, offering free medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh to every family, covering nearly 3 crore people. Currently, 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are operational, with 200 more on the way.
He shared the transformation in the education sector, with government schools being upgraded to Schools of Eminence. Punjab has now topped the National Achievement Survey. Notable achievements include:
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848 students clearing NEET
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265 qualifying JEE Mains
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45 clearing JEE Advanced
To further improve education quality, teachers and principals are receiving training abroad. In addition, the number of ITI seats has increased from 35,000 to 52,000.
Fight Against Drugs & Crime
Mann reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug abuse. Under the Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh (War Against Drugs) campaign, drug networks have been dismantled, drug lords prosecuted, and properties confiscated. Villages across Punjab are declaring themselves drug-free, and an anti-drone system has been deployed along the Pakistan border – a first in the nation.
He also mentioned the formation of an Anti-Gangster Task Force and introduction of anti-drug curriculum in schools.
Jobs, Youth & Sports Development
The Chief Minister reported that over 55,000 government jobs have been provided transparently. A new Sports Policy has been launched with over 13,000 stadiums planned – 3,083 already under construction. He lauded the achievements of sports icons like Rupinder Singh (hockey) and Sifat Kaur Samra (shooting) and cited the Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan initiative for nurturing youth talent.
Power, Infrastructure & Investment
Mann highlighted that 90% of households in Punjab now receive free electricity, saving each family around ₹35,000 annually. Farmers also benefit from uninterrupted power during the paddy season.
To improve infrastructure and governance:
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Revenue services like e-registration and e-jamabandi have been digitized.
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₹1.14 lakh crore in investment proposals have been received since March 2022, potentially generating 4.5 lakh jobs.
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24 sectoral committees are working to shape an industry-friendly ecosystem.
Road Safety & Environmental Initiatives
The newly formed Sadak Surakhya Force has led to a 48% drop in road accidents. The state also launched a massive project to clean over 17,000 ponds, promoting environmental sustainability.
He announced the Punjab Rural Transformation Fellowship, which places 154 youth at the block level to help implement village development plans in coordination with local officials.
Corruption-Free Governance & Welfare
Mann stressed that every rupee of public money is being used wisely for people’s welfare. A new reward system has been initiated for police personnel actively involved in the anti-drug campaign. Recruitment and promotion in the police department have also been streamlined.
He emphasized the government’s continued focus on the marginalized, announcing several welfare schemes and celebrating improved access to canal water for tail-end farmers—benefiting agriculture and conserving groundwater.
Cultural Celebrations & Honours
The Chief Minister took the salute during a grand parade featuring BSF, Punjab Police, NCC, and others. Cultural performances, tableaus showcasing government initiatives, and traditional dances like Bhangra and Giddha delighted the audience.
He also honored freedom fighters, Kargil War heroes, and families of martyred soldiers for their supreme sacrifices.