Talwandi Sabo (Bathinda). Arriving at Takht Sri Damdama Sahib on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced several key decisions concerning the state’s education sector, farmers, women’s empowerment, and religious tourism. During his visit, he made a major announcement regarding meritorious Class 8 students, stating that the top 20 students would be granted direct admission to the ‘Schools of Eminence’ without having to appear for any entrance examination.
The chief minister highlighted that in the recently declared Class 8 results, girls have secured 19 out of the top 20 positions. He remarked that it is a matter of immense pride that the female students who achieved these top rankings hail from ordinary families. The government’s objective is to provide such talented students with better education and facilities, thereby enabling them to excel further.
Chief Minister Mann stated that his government is working relentlessly towards the goal of creating a “Rangla Punjab” (Vibrant Punjab). Priority is being accorded to reforms within the education sector, and even more significant measures are set to be implemented in the near future.
Barbed Wire Fencing to be Shifted to the Border
Addressing issues concerning farmers, he noted that farmers residing near the international border face numerous challenges. In several areas, the alignment of the border fencing—which is situated inward from the actual boundary—adversely affects the farmers’ landholdings. This issue has been raised with the central government, and a decision has now been taken to conduct surveys across various districts to assess the situation. This initiative is expected to provide much-needed relief to the farmers.
The chief minister also took cognizance of the damage caused by recent hailstorms, assuring that necessary steps are being taken to provide relief to the affected farmers. The state government has already issued orders for a ‘Girdawari’ (revenue survey) to assess the extent of the damage, thereby expediting the compensation disbursement process.
Strict Laws Against Incidents of Sacrilege
Speaking on religious matters, the chief minister announced that a special session of the Legislative Assembly would be convened on the occasion of Vaisakhi to discuss the enactment of strict laws regarding incidents of sacrilege. He stated that this legislation would include provisions for stringent clauses and heavy penalties.
The chief minister also made a significant announcement regarding women’s empowerment. He stated that a scheme to provide financial assistance to women would be launched starting from Adampur. Under this initiative, eligible women will receive regular financial support.
Furthermore, to promote religious tourism, he proposed the introduction of a special train service to facilitate pilgrimages to the prominent Takhts (seats of religious authority). The chief minister gave an assurance that development works across the state are being accelerated and that Punjab will be strengthened in every sector.
Paid Obeisance at Damdama Sahib
On the occasion of the Vaisakhi fair in Talwandi Sabo, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann visited Takht Sri Damdama Sahib to pay his obeisance and offer prayers for the prosperity of the state. He joined the congregation in the queue to seek darshan (holy sight) and interacted with the devotees. He also encouraged the children to pursue education.
Subsequently, while inaugurating a new administrative complex, he stated that the government is working to make all public services available to the people under a single roof. Administrative officials and local representatives were also present at the event.
