JALANDHAR: In a major push toward social equality and education reform, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched the distribution of scholarships to over 2.7 lakh Scheduled Caste (SC) students at the PAP Ground today. Under the ‘Mission Rangla Punjab’ initiative, the government has released Rs. 271 crore to ensure seamless higher education for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
A 35% Surge in Beneficiaries Since 2021
Addressing a massive gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted that the number of scholarship recipients has seen an unprecedented 35% increase compared to the 2020–21 academic year.
“This scholarship is not mere financial aid; it is a tool for self-reliance. We are correcting years of systemic neglect where delayed funds previously prevented students from even appearing in their exams,” CM Mann stated.
Key Highlights of the 2024-25 Scholarship Drive:
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Total Outlay: Increased from Rs.245 crore to Rs. 271 crore.
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Beneficiaries: Over 2.7 lakh students across Punjab.
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Eligibility: Families with an annual income below Rs. 2.50 lakh.
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Anti-Fraud Measures: Mandatory bio-authentication for students and institutional heads to prevent the “scams” seen under previous administrations.
From “Scams” to “Punjab Shine”
CM Mann took a sharp dig at previous governments, noting that between 2017 and 2020, the scholarship scheme was plagued by corruption and stalled funds. He emphasized that the AAP government has transitioned the state from a period of “scams” to an era of “Punjab Shine.”
“The then ministers betrayed their own community by misappropriating funds meant for children’s education. Today, we have introduced a new accountability system on the Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal to ensure every paisa reaches the rightful student,” the CM added.
Education as the “Weapon” for Social Change
Invoking the philosophy of Babasaheb Ambedkar, the Chief Minister reiterated that education is the only way to break the cycle of poverty.
Modernizing Punjab’s Education & Health:
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Schools of Eminence: Established with smart classrooms and modern labs.
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Global Training: Teachers and principals are being sent abroad for specialized training.
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Competitive Coaching: Free coaching for NEET, JEE, CLAT, and NIFT for government school students.
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Healthcare: 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics providing free treatment and the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna offering up to ₹10 lakh in cashless treatment.
Emotional Testimonies from Beneficiaries
The event saw emotional accounts from students whose lives were transformed by the scheme:
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Dilpreet Singh (MBBS Student): “The CM has turned Dilpreet Singh into Dr. Dilpreet. I have no words to express my gratitude.”
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Harshita (BA LLB Student): “This scheme proved that the government delivers on its promises, making my legal career possible.”
A Vision for the Future
The Chief Minister concluded by reciting Sant Ram Udaasi’s poem, ‘Maghda Rahin Ve Surja Kammian De Vehre’, urging the youth to remain grounded and dedicated to their goals. He noted that Punjab’s recent top ranking in the National Achievement Survey is a testament to the success of these ongoing reforms.
The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers Harpal Singh Cheema, Dr. Baljit Kaur, and other prominent dignitaries.