Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini called upon citizens to collectively resolve toward building a drug-free, educated society, driven by systemic transformation and nation-building. Speaking as the chief guest at the 39th Dikshant and Seva Samman Samaroh of Piyush Muni Maharaj in Jalandhar, Punjab, the Chief Minister emphasized that saints have historically guided humanity through the principles of truth, non-violence, restraint, service, and dedication. During the event, organized by the local Jain Sabha, the Chief Minister was formally felicitated with a traditional shawl, turban, and memento. Saini highlighted that true human worth lies in character, values, and empathy rather than material wealth, praising social organizations for their role in educating daughters, supporting the underprivileged, and raising awareness against substance abuse.
Turning his focus to regional governance and economy, Saini stated that political self-interests have severely derailed the historical prosperity of ‘Rangla Punjab’. He pointed out that Punjab is currently burdened with a massive debt exceeding ₹4 lakh crore, which translates to an individual debt liability of over ₹1.25 lakh per citizen. While noting that the bond between Haryana and Punjab transcends administrative borders to represent a deep emotional connection, he launched a sharp critique against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab. Saini asserted that despite making lofty promises to eradicate the drug menace, the current Punjab administration has left the state struggling with rampant substance abuse and an aggressive gangster culture.
The Chief Minister contrasted Punjab’s current challenges with the proactive governance model implemented by the BJP administration in Haryana, particularly in generating employment, skill development, and robust sports policies for youth. Saini observed that Punjab’s farmers face constant anxiety and uncertainty regarding crop procurement, payments, and mandi management. Furthermore, he highlighted that the youth of Punjab are facing severe distress, citing that the state’s unemployment rate soared to 8.8 per cent during the April-June quarter of the 2025-26 fiscal year. Saini remarked that while Haryana is successfully providing concrete growth avenues for its youth, Punjab has relied merely on hollow announcements.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister paid rich tributes to Jalandhar, recognizing it as a world-renowned sports city and a vital national hub for the MSME sector, handicrafts, and the leather industry. Saini credited the central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for revitalizing these local industries through the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Mudra schemes. He highlighted significant central infrastructure milestones in the region, noting that the modernization of the Jalandhar Cantt Railway Station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme has been completed, while upgrades at the City Railway Station are progressing rapidly. Saini added that mega connectivity projects, such as the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, have successfully integrated Jalandhar with the country’s major economic centers. The high-profile event saw the participation of prominent personalities, including Shramesh Muni Maharaj, former minister Manoranjan Kalia, and former MP Sunil Jakhar, alongside senior representatives of the Jain Sabha.
