-Over 90% Households Get Free Electricity; Farmers Now Receive Daytime Power
– Aam Aadmi Clinics to 44,920 km Road Network
– Every Taxpayer Rupee Used for People’s Welfare
Ahmedabad, February 21
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today announced that the AAP government will present its fifth consecutive pro-people Budget in March, once again focused on the welfare of every section of society. Speaking to the media, he emphasized that the government has consistently taken citizen-centric decisions that have completely transformed the state’s direction.
CM Mann said, “In March, the Punjab Government will present its fifth Budget, and we will continue our tradition of tabling a truly pro-people Budget aimed at the welfare of all. Our sole objective is to ensure the well-being of the common man, and we are making relentless efforts to achieve this. The upcoming Budget will once again deliver immense benefits to the people of Punjab.”
Targeting the Union Government, the Chief Minister said that for several consecutive years, the BJP-led NDA’s Union Budget has been directionless and heavily skewed toward the affluent. Referring to Gujarat, he remarked, “In Gujarat, where there is virtually no opposition, the common man’s hardships have multiplied, and people continue to suffer. Congress and BJP are playing a friendly match there, suppressing the voice of the common man.”
He added that while the Prime Minister talks of making India a “Vishwa Guru,” people in his home state are struggling for basic necessities. “To silence opposition voices in democracy, the Centre has introduced the concept of ‘Digital Janta,’ where vote data is manipulated to win elections across states. Today, the people of Gujarat see AAP as their saviour. Hope shines in the eyes of every Gujarati family through AAP,” CM Mann stated.
On states’ financial rights, he accused the Centre of undemocratically withholding Punjab’s legitimate share in the Rural Development Fund—a pattern repeated in all non-BJP-ruled states. “Democracy is of the people, by the people, for the people. But today, suppressing opposition voices has become a trend. Just as a bouquet is beautiful because of its variety of flowers, democracy flourishes when every voice is heard,” he explained.
The Chief Minister asserted that his government does not discriminate in development fund allocation. “Wherever AAP has formed governments, taxpayers’ money has been used judiciously for the common man’s welfare. After Delhi, Punjab’s AAP Government has ensured every rupee is optimally utilized for public good,” he said.
Highlighting key reforms, CM Mann noted that over 90% of households now receive free electricity, and farmers get daytime power supply—an unprecedented change. “While the Centre hands over national assets to cronies at throwaway prices, Punjab made history by purchasing a private thermal plant. We have opened 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics for free healthcare, and government hospitals are delivering quality medical services,” he added.
On healthcare, he proudly stated that Punjab is the first state in India to launch the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, providing cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family. “This historic initiative has significantly reduced financial burdens while ensuring quality healthcare for all families in the state,” he said.
In education, CM Mann highlighted the Punjab Sikhya Kranti, upgrading infrastructure in all government schools. “We are committed to transforming 118 Government Senior Secondary Schools into Schools of Eminence with smart classrooms, modern labs, and playgrounds. Teachers and principals are being sent abroad for specialized training to adopt global best practices and prepare students for international competition. It is a matter of great pride that Punjab has topped the National Achievement Survey, surpassing even Kerala,” he noted.
On infrastructure, he said Punjab has launched its largest-ever road construction drive, building 44,920 km of roads at a cost of ₹16,209 crore. “All roads come with a five-year maintenance clause, adhering to the highest quality and world-class safety standards. This will boost rural connectivity and mobility across the state,” he added.
Honouring security forces, CM Mann said the state provides ₹1 crore financial assistance to families of martyred jawans from Armed Forces, Paramilitary, and Agniveers, and ₹2 crore to families of police personnel martyred in the line of duty. “This is a tribute to their supreme sacrifice and our humble respect for the bravehearts safeguarding the nation’s unity, integrity, and sovereignty,” he said.
In another people-friendly move, he announced the closure of 19 toll plazas, saving ₹64 lakh daily from the pockets of the common people.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann concluded that every policy decision is aimed at strengthening democracy, empowering citizens, and ensuring governance remains firmly rooted in public welfare.
