CM Mann Hands Over Regular Appointment Letters to 942 Forest Department Employees in Punjab

Chandigarh, July 30, 2025: In a major step towards employee welfare, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann handed over regular appointment letters to 942 contractual employees of the Forest Department, ending more than a decade of uncertainty for them. The announcement was made at a function where Mann lauded the commitment and dedication of these workers, whose service has now been formally recognized with permanent government positions.

Speaking at the event, Mann said the state government had worked tirelessly to overcome legal and administrative challenges to regularize these employees. He emphasized that removing the word “contractual” from their designation was not a favor, but a long-overdue act of justice. He expressed satisfaction that these employees, who had given the prime years of their life in service, now had secure futures with full benefits and dignity.

He criticized previous governments for using employment incentives only during election seasons, claiming they had looted the public and failed to prioritize people’s welfare. In contrast, Mann positioned his government as one that has taken continuous, proactive steps to improve governance since taking office in 2022. He noted that sectors such as health, education, power, water, and infrastructure remain top priorities for his administration.

The Chief Minister also took aim at opposition leaders, questioning their ability to connect with the masses due to their elite backgrounds and poor command of Punjabi. He accused them of prioritizing family interests over the public good, and contrasted that with his own administration’s efforts to restore public trust and focus on development.

Highlighting the success of the state’s anti-drug campaign “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh,” Mann said significant progress has been made, including arrests of major drug traffickers and asset seizures. He specifically targeted former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh for allegedly showing concern for the rights of drug kingpins while ignoring the plight of everyday Punjabis affected by addiction.

In terms of agricultural development, Mann reported that irrigation through canal water had increased from 21% to 63% under his government. He praised efforts to deliver water to remote areas and protect Punjab’s water resources from being diverted to other states.

On the healthcare front, Mann spotlighted the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, which he described as a landmark program offering cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every family in the state. He claimed Punjab was the first Indian state to provide such universal health coverage.

The Chief Minister also spoke about the untapped potential of tourism in Punjab, citing scenic locations like Chamrod Pattan in Pathankot, also known as “Mini Goa.” He said the state’s natural beauty and resources were being leveraged to boost eco-tourism and stimulate economic activity.

Ending on a note of optimism, Mann noted the trend of reverse migration in Punjab, with local youth now becoming job creators instead of seekers. He reaffirmed his government’s mission to empower young people through public sector employment and economic opportunity.