National Times Bureau, April 3, 2025: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann declared that the state is firmly on the path of progress after three years of tackling issues left by previous governments. Speaking at the inauguration of the World Skill Campus of Excellence, he emphasized that poor governance in the past led to industrial decline, a thriving drug mafia, and stalled development.
Mann highlighted his government’s achievements, including shutting 17 toll plazas to ease financial burdens while accusing the BJP-led NDA of continuously increasing toll rates. He pointed out that groundwater levels had dropped to dangerous levels in 117 of 153 blocks, but his administration revived nearly 16,000 water channels to ensure water supply to remote villages.
The Chief Minister noted that 90% of households now benefit from free electricity since the scheme’s implementation in July. In a first for Punjab, the government also purchased a private power plant, naming it after Guru Amar Dass Ji to boost energy production.
He credited Punjab’s peaceful environment and strong infrastructure for attracting ₹97,000 crore in investments over three years. Major companies like Tata Steel and Sanatan Textiles are setting up operations in the state, driven by business-friendly policies and a skilled workforce. He added that the government has provided 55,000 jobs, ensuring youth stay engaged in productive work rather than falling into drug addiction.
Mann accused past governments of shielding drug traffickers, while his administration has cracked down on suppliers, confiscated illegal properties, and disrupted supply chains. He urged citizens to report drug-related activities on the government’s confidential WhatsApp helpline.
The newly launched World Skill Campus of Excellence, spread over 20 acres, will train over 3,000 students in robotics, 3D printing, CNC machines, and more. He thanked Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney for contributing ₹2.7 crore towards modernizing ITI Ludhiana. The Multi-Skill Development Centre, previously left unutilized, will now offer free courses in AI, aviation, hospitality, agriculture, and other fields under NSDC accreditation.
Cabinet Ministers Harjot Singh Bains and Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, along with Rajya Sabha MPs Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney and Sanjeev Arora, attended the event. Mann reiterated his commitment to Punjab’s progress, urging youth to seize the opportunities available in the state.
