Grants Over ₹3 Crore Distributed in Dhuri Constituency, Anti-Drug Campaign Yields Results
-CM Mann Warns BJP Leaders Against Obstructing State Development Projects
Duri (Sangrur), July 20
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann strongly criticized BJP leaders for creating unnecessary obstacles in the state’s development projects, warning them against using such tactics to jeopardize Punjab’s progress.
Addressing a gathering after distributing ₹3.07 crore in grants for development works in the Dhuri Assembly constituency, Mann announced that the Railway Ministry has approved a Railway Over Bridge (ROB) for the city, with the Punjab government bearing the cost. He revealed that a senior BJP leader recently visited the city and issued statements aimed at stalling the project for personal political gains. Mann asserted that such tactics would not be tolerated, and Punjab’s discerning public would hold such leaders accountable.
The Chief Minister assured that work on the ROB would commence soon, as he would personally raise the issue with the Union Railway Minister. He also announced plans for a state-of-the-art sports stadium in Dhuri and the imminent start of construction for a medical college in Sangrur to provide quality healthcare services.
Highlighting youth empowerment initiatives, Mann revealed that the state government will establish eight UPSC coaching centers across Punjab, including one in Dhuri. These centers will offer high-quality training, libraries, hostels, and other facilities to prepare youth for national-level competitive exams, ensuring their readiness for success.
On the ‘War Against Drugs,’ Mann stated that the state’s campaign is yielding significant results. He pointed out that major drug traffickers are now behind bars in Nabha Jail, emphasizing that no one involved in this heinous crime will be spared, and strict legal action will be taken. He added that properties of drug peddlers are being confiscated and demolished, crediting public support for the campaign’s success.
watch……CM Mann Joins Thousands to Bid Emotional Farewell to Marathon Legend Fauja Singh
Mann stressed the government’s focus on employment to steer youth away from drugs, stating, “We want to put tiffins in the hands of our youth, not syringes.” He noted that unemployment is a root cause of social issues, and the government has already provided approximately 55,000 government jobs to address this.
The Chief Minister criticized past governments for patronizing the drug mafia, asserting that his administration has launched a full-fledged war against drugs, breaking supply chains and imprisoning key perpetrators. He also outlined initiatives to boost trade and economic activity, ensuring the expansion of existing industries and facilitating new ones.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to preventing sacrilege, Mann highlighted the introduction of the Punjab Prevention of Crime Against Religious Scriptures Bill, 2025, in the state assembly. He emphasized that this sensitive issue is critical for all Punjabis and requires stringent punishment to deter such crimes.
Mann noted significant improvements in irrigation, with canal water usage rising from 21% to 63%, ensuring water reaches even the remotest villages. He also announced the launch of India’s first dedicated Road Safety Force in Punjab, equipped with 144 modern vehicles and trained personnel, including women, which has been praised by other states and the central government.
Under the ‘Chief Minister Health Scheme,’ the first of its kind in India, every Punjab family is provided up to ₹10 lakh in cashless medical treatment, significantly reducing financial burdens. Mann also highlighted the historic ‘One MLA, One Pension’ bill, ensuring a single pension per MLA term, and the provision of free electricity to 90% of households and uninterrupted power to farmers since 2022.
To support farmers, Mann appealed to the central government to begin paddy procurement 15 days earlier, from September 15, to ensure smooth sales and benefit farmers with dry produce.
