PUNJAB NEWS : Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal announced on Monday that the Punjab government has finally addressed a long-standing issue faced by industrialists for 32 years by introducing the One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme.
Speaking at a Sanatkaar Milni event alongside Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Kejriwal assured industrialists of the government’s unwavering support. He criticized previous administrations for exploiting businesses and forcing industrialists to flee the state. He emphasized that since 2022, he has personally held three rounds of discussions with industrialists to resolve their concerns.
Kejriwal reaffirmed his government’s commitment to revitalizing Punjab’s industrial sector, stating that many long-pending issues have now been resolved based on feedback from business owners. He asserted that AAP is focused on undoing the mismanagement of past governments.
Highlighting AAP’s bold decision-making, he reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, promising strict action against those involved. He also revealed plans to make all public services available online via Sewa Kendras within the next 4-5 months to eliminate corruption and streamline administrative processes.
Kejriwal further mentioned efforts to curb corruption in land registrations and establish real-time feedback systems to ensure smooth public service delivery. He criticized a former Punjab Chief Minister for being inaccessible to industrialists and failing to address their concerns.
Addressing industrial growth, Kejriwal assured that the government is actively working to restore the sector. He cited recent reforms, including revised fire safety norms and the introduction of green stamp papers, as significant relief measures for businesses. He also announced that a new industrial policy would be introduced based on suggestions from industry leaders, incorporating best practices from other states.
To boost industrial infrastructure, the government is revamping Focal Points across Punjab. Kejriwal also promised faster project approvals, stating that applications for new industrial projects would be cleared within 45 days or be automatically approved. Additionally, plans are in motion to establish exhibition centers statewide to promote industries.
Regarding law and order, he assured industrialists of full government support in tackling extortion threats from gangsters. He urged them to report such cases immediately, stating that while most calls are hoaxes, adequate security will be provided. The government is also strengthening the 112 emergency helpline, reducing police response time from 30 minutes to just eight minutes.
Kejriwal identified drug abuse as a major challenge for Punjab, revealing that many addicts spend ₹3,000-₹4,000 daily on narcotics, often resorting to crime to fund their addiction. He accused previous governments of failing to address this crisis, alleging that the Akalis had protected a drug cartel and that Congress had done little to combat it. He assured that the AAP government is cracking down on drug traffickers, seizing their assets, and dismantling supply networks.
He noted that 70% of drugs enter Punjab via drones from Pakistan, prompting the government to collaborate with the BSF and deploy anti-drone technology. Additionally, efforts are underway to tighten surveillance on hawala operators involved in drug money transactions.
To combat drug abuse at the grassroots level, the government is deploying 5,000 Home Guards in border districts and developing sports and fitness infrastructure in every village to divert youth towards positive activities.
Looking ahead, Kejriwal promised comprehensive development in Punjab over the next two years. He acknowledged that Punjab was once a leader in multiple sectors but suffered due to mismanagement by previous regimes. However, he assured that AAP is committed to holistic state development, leaving no stone unturned.
He announced an extensive infrastructure revamp, stating that all roads, cities, and villages will undergo repairs or redevelopment within the next 18 months. The government has also formulated a roadmap to enhance urban development, ensuring improved water supply, sewerage systems, sanitation, roads, street lighting, and sewage treatment plants in 166 cities over the next two years.
The event was also attended by Cabinet Ministers Tarunpreet Singh Sondh and Hardeep Singh Mundian, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, and other dignitaries.