Declaring it as the next big leap in Punjab’s Sikhya Kranti, the Education Minister said Punjab, already ranked No.1 in the PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) survey, is now moving from recognition to results by tightening classroom accountability and scaling proven teaching practices. He underscored that CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has raised the education budget to ₹19,279 crore, ensuring funds reach classrooms rather than remain stuck in files, driving visible transformation from basic infrastructure to measurable learning outcomes across government schools.

Highlighting Punjab’s top rank in the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government has introduced the attendance tracking system as part of Mission Samrath 2026–27. 

He stated, “Parents will receive daily SMS alerts on their child’s attendance, with notifications for every absence, aiming to boost regular attendance, learning continuity and classroom engagement. Any child absent for seven days will trigger a district-level parent contact, while absence beyond 15 days will be flagged to state headquarters. This will ensure both learning continuity and child safety.” 

Emphasising the impact of the programme, the Education Minister stated, “Mission Samrath has transformed classroom dynamics. This phase focuses on enhancing teaching quality and accountability through attendance tracking, improved monitoring and sharing the best practices. Our goal is to ensure that every child achieves strong foundational learning.” 

Reflecting on his journey, he added, “I’m grateful for this responsibility (being the Education Minister). Earlier, every MLA wanted to be a minister, but never the education minister. For me, it has been a dream job.” 

Highlighting the Punjab Government’s investment in education, Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, “CM Bhagwant Singh Mann increased the education budget from ₹12,657 crore in 2021–22 to ₹19,279 crore in 2026–27, the largest allocation for any sector in Punjab. This money isn’t just on paper. It has reached every school. Teachers used to collect donations to repair toilets or buy brooms during past regimes. Now, they say, don’t send grants, we haven’t spent the last one.” 

He further underlined improvements in school infrastructure under the Bhagwant Mann government, stating that every senior secondary school with more than 500 students now has a dedicated campus manager, while schools with over 100 students have been provided security guards and sanitation staff, facilities that were once unavailable.

On academic reforms, Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that textbooks now reach students on time, adding, “Earlier, teachers photocopied pages till September or October as books hadn’t arrived. This year, the Punjab Government delivered complete textbooks to every child on April 1, free of cost, like any private school, made possible through meticulous planning and political will.” 

Explaining the core focus of Mission Samrath 4.0, he said, “The programme ensures that children in grades 3 to 8 master reading, writing and mathematics.” Sharing a classroom example, he added, “A class 8 student from Gardale village in Ropar said, ‘I passed class 5, but knew nothing. Thanks to Samrath, I can now talk to you with confidence.’ The results are now visible in national data. Punjab has surpassed the national average in foundational learning by 18% in grade 3 and 26–28% in grade 6. That is our real medal.” 

Minister Harjot Singh Bains and former Delhi Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also released the Mission Samrath Compendium, documenting 38 proven classroom practices developed by Punjab’s teachers, which will now be scaled across government schools to accelerate learning outcomes, particularly for students requiring additional support. 

Minister Harjot Singh Bains noted that Mission Samrath has already become one of India’s largest foundational learning programmes, covering nearly 12 lakh students and engaging over 70,000 teachers annually, with its level-based teaching approach grouping students by learning level rather than grade, contributing to Punjab’s top rank in PARAKH. 

Manish Sisodia said, “Punjab has proven that government schools can lead the nation. Being ranked number one in PARAKH 2024 is testament to that. With Mission Samrath 4.0, the state ensures every child is in school every day and learning well. This is a step towards global excellence.” 

He further emphasised the philosophy behind the reforms, stating, “Every child cannot be sent to IIT, but the government’s duty is to ensure that no child falls below the bottom line. Because if a system allows any child to remain beneath that line, the government has failed. A child is not a statistic. A child is hope. And hope cannot be left below the bottom line.”

Highlighting the importance of accountability, Manish Sisodia added, “Across the country, people read speeches of education ministers, prime ministers and chief ministers. But speeches alone do not change lives. Examples do. A parent, busy elsewhere, receives a simple message: ‘Your ward has reached school safely.’ That small act of accountability, that real-time reassurance, is worth more than a thousand grand declarations.” 

Secretary School Education Sonali Giri welcomed the dignitaries and said, “We will ensure every student and parent feels proud to be part of government schools. Punjab has set the benchmark, and Mission Samrath will take it further.” 

Director SCERT Kiran Sharma, Advisory Board Member of Central Square Foundation Shaveta Sharma Kukreja, and other senior officials of the department were also present on the occasion. 

Attendance-Linked Reform to Strengthen Learning Continuity

Mission Samrath, the Bhagwant Mann Government’s flagship programme, follows a focused, classroom-driven approach by teaching children according to their learning level rather than grade, supported by regular assessments to identify gaps, activity-based learning, and continuous mentoring for teachers. Building on Punjab’s emergence as the top-performing state in the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024, the Punjab Government has now launched Mission Samrath 2026–27 to move from national leadership towards global excellence in education. 

A key feature of this phase is the introduction of a state-wide attendance tracking system under which parents will receive daily SMS alerts regarding their child’s attendance, including notifications for every absence. This mechanism is designed to improve regular attendance, ensure learning continuity, enhance classroom engagement, and build stronger accountability between schools and families, while reinforcing the link between attendance and learning outcomes.

Invoking the legacy of the nation’s greatest revolutionaries, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the occasion is not merely to remember their sacrifice but to carry forward their fearless ideals and unwavering stand against injustice. He renewed his resolve to serve Punjab and the nation in line with their vision, while also questioning the continued denial of the Bharat Ratna (highest honours) to these freedom fighters and asserting that India’s trajectory would have been profoundly different had such courageous, youth-driven leadership shaped its early years.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Selfish leaders in this country have built stadiums in their own names even while alive, but have done little to honour true martyrs like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev.”

The Chief Minister stated, “These iconic revolutionaries sacrificed their lives at a young age, but after independence, others occupied the corridors of power and took credit for the freedom they did not fight for.”

“Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, and Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh have been reduced to being remembered with flowers, while others claimed the legacy of independence,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, further noting, “They were hanged early to silence them because people had begun to rally behind their fearless ideas.”

Reflecting on the cost of independence, the Chief Minister said, “No one could have imagined how costly our independence would be, with around a million people losing their lives during Partition and millions forced to migrate.” He added, “Our elders made immense sacrifices, but those ruling today fail to understand that pain as they inherited a ready-made nation built on those sacrifices.”

“Some thankless leaders now claim that India got true independence only in 2014, which is a grave insult to our martyrs,” he said, adding, “It is shocking that some even describe Shaheed Bhagat Singh merely as a ‘social worker’ and not a martyr. Who are these people to give such certificates?”

Calling upon people to draw inspiration from the martyrs, he said, “Today is a day to remember these legendary heroes, to read and listen to their stories which continue to inspire generations of youth.”

The Chief Minister reiterated that political priorities have long been misplaced, stating, “Leaders have built statues of themselves and named stadiums after themselves while alive, but have failed to honour martyrs like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev.”

He added, “It is unfortunate that we had to struggle to get Mohali airport named after Shaheed Bhagat Singh, as the Centre ignored repeated requests, but our persistent efforts ensured that it was eventually named in his honour.”

Highlighting further steps, he said, “Halwara airport is being named after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, whom Shaheed Bhagat Singh regarded as his mentor.”

He asserted, “If Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh had become the Prime Minister after the first elections of 1952, the entire map of the country would have been different. Today, a 35-year-old youth has become Prime Minister in Nepal. If leadership had been handed to youth here as well, India would have been number one in the world.”

The Chief Minister noted that remembrance must go beyond symbolic gestures, stating, “People remember Shaheed Bhagat Singh only on his birth or martyrdom anniversary, but he belongs to all of us, not just one family.” He added, “If we follow his ideals, no one can stop Punjab from becoming prosperous again.”

“Our history is full of sacrifices, and our great Gurus have always taught us to stand against tyranny, injustice, and oppression,” he said, while cautioning, “It is unfortunate that we are forgetting these sacrifices. We memorise facts for exams but fail to understand their ideology.”

Recalling the life of the martyr, he said, “Shaheed Bhagat Singh even left home on the day of his engagement, choosing the path of revolution over personal life.”

He added, “It pains me when people merely put his picture on vehicles and say he will return.”

Calling for action, the Chief Minister said, “Instead of waiting for him to return, we must follow his path and serve the nation.”

He emphasised, “Today, bombs and weapons are not needed. The power of the ballot is supreme, and by choosing the right leaders, people can bring real change.”

Urging people to take a pledge, he said, “Let us resolve to follow the path of the martyrs and build our Punjab with our own hands. This sacred land of Hussainiwala, where the mortal remains of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, and Shaheed Sukhdev were cremated by the Britishers, continues to inspire generations for selfless service.”

The Chief Minister said, “I am blessed to visit this sacred land and pay tributes to the martyr who laid down his life at the age of 23 for the freedom of the nation. Our government will leave no stone unturned to realise the dream of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, to whom the nation will always remain indebted.”

“His martyrdom inspired countless youth to join the freedom struggle and will continue to inspire millions to serve the nation selflessly,” he said, calling upon youth to follow his path to build a progressive and prosperous India.

Earlier, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of the Hussainiwala Heritage Complex, stating, “This ₹24.99 crore project is a humble effort to honour our great martyrs and preserve their legacy for future generations.” He added, “The project aims to develop the heritage area at Hussainiwala and will also boost tourism in Punjab.”

Detailing the project, he said, “The complex will feature a grand heritage entrance gate, a corridor dedicated to the lives of martyrs, wall paintings, beautification and landscaping of parks and memorial areas.” He added, “It will also include thematic representations of historical events, a 3D mapping show on the old bridge, a musical fountain, play areas for children, comfortable spaces for senior citizens, an on-grid solar power plant, and an RO plant for clean drinking water.”

The Chief Minister asserted while the Opposition remains busy fighting for power after having “looted Punjab turn by turn”, his government is committed to securing the rights of people, adding that Punjab has not forgotten the sacrifice of 750 farmers who lost their lives during the agitation against the Centre’s three farm laws.

Addressing a gathering after dedicating the newly constructed Sub Divisional Hospital, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “It is a writing on the wall that owing to several people-friendly decisions, the AAP will again form the government in the state,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. He added, “People of Punjab are eagerly ready to constitute the AAP government again after the ensuing Vidhan Sabha polls in 2027. After assuming charge in 2022 from the native village of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, our government took several people-friendly decisions. We have already fulfilled all our promises in four years and in the coming one year we will take the state to a new zenith.”

Emphasising a shift in governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We have started a new tradition in politics by completing all promises in four years, whereas parties are not able to do so in five years. From day one, our government is cleaning the mess made by the previous regimes and we are not hesitant to take bold decisions for the welfare of the common man.” He added, “Now again the Congress and Badals are seeking another chance to plunder the state whereas the state has already suffered a lot in their hands.”

Highlighting public sentiment, he said, “The wise people of the state will never give them another chance and they will be sent to political oblivion after the polls.” CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added, “Those leaders who had patronized the drug trade were put behind bars. These leaders not only patronized drug trade across the state but even sold and supplied drugs in their official government vehicles. Previously no one had ever dared to arrest these affluent leaders, but our government has done so and now they are paying the price for their sins.”

Calling out collusion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “An unholy nexus prevailed between these political parties as they were hand in glove with each other to loot the wealth of the state. When in power, these parties used to save each other by turning a blind eye towards their misdeeds. However, the AAP government ensured that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are put behind bars.”

Taking aim at Opposition leaders, he said, “Even today they are one and Charanjit Singh Channi, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, Captain Amarinder Singh, Sukhbir Singh Badal and others have joined the chorus to target me. Earlier these leaders used to mock me by labeling me as an entertainer, but now they chant my name day and night out of fear.” He added, “In 2017, when AAP got several seats and became Opposition, they said nothing will happen. In 2022 they said nothing will happen, but our government took several path-breaking initiatives. Now again they say nothing will happen in 2027, but AAP will form the government again with a thumping majority.”

On the Opposition’s failure, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The entire opposition has never raised a single real issue concerning the people both inside and outside the Vidhan Sabha. This reflects that they are only concerned about their own positions as they are only interested in power.” He added, “Desperate to attain power, the Akali Dal is posting AI-generated videos about me on social media to mislead people. This shows that in dearth of any issue against me they are baffled and making futile attempts to attain power.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Traditional political parties are envious because they are not able to digest that the son of a common man is governing the state effectively. People have lost faith in them due to their anti-people and anti-Punjab stance, which is why they were ousted in 2022.”

Continuing, he said, “These parties are resorting to cheap gimmicks to mislead the people. Earlier they were welcomed with garlands but now people greet them with defeat wherever they go. People have elected sons and daughters of common man who are performing their duties zealously, whereas these traditional parties failed miserably when they were in power.”

On past governance, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “These leaders plundered the resources of the state for their vested political interests. While Punjab was facing unemployment, brain drain and corruption, these leaders were busy minting money illegally. They built palaces and business empires at the cost of the people and the state.” He added, “They have sown thorns for Punjab and its younger generations by derailing its progress and prosperity. Their hands are drenched in this crime and history will never forgive them for backstabbing Punjab.”

He further said, “These leaders are frustrated because we have exposed their ugly faces before the people and have become a threat to their power. They cannot digest that common people are now getting positions.” Taking a swipe at the Badals, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “They ruined businesses by luring people with false promises. It is said that if you write ‘Badal’ on a tree, it will dry up.”

Invoking Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh in detail, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Bhagat Singh was born in 1907, on 28 September, and was martyred on 23 March 1931 at just 23 and a half years of age. He fought for the country’s freedom and to drive out the British. His way was different because he was young and aggressive, while others like Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi had their own approaches. But later, we reduced his legacy to merely offering flowers once a year on 23 March.”

He added, “If Bhagat Singh had lived, or had been given the opportunity to lead after Independence, the entire direction of the country would have been different. He had written extensively, his jail letters and writings were like a manifesto. He had said that he was not worried about whether independence would come or not, because it would come, but he was concerned about who would rule the country after independence.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “Sixteen years after his martyrdom, the country became independent. By 1952, when the first elections were held, Bhagat Singh would have been around 45 years old. He should have been the first Prime Minister of the country. The entire map and destiny of the nation would have been different if Bhagat Singh had led India.”

He continued, “He had already warned that after independence, power should not go into the wrong hands. Unfortunately, the same happened. Even after 80 years, we are still trapped in the same old system, the same patwari-tehsil structure, and people are still struggling for basic needs like jobs and services.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Just as Mahatma Gandhi was called Bapu, Jawaharlal Nehru was called Chacha and Chaudhary Devi Lal was called Tau, I consider myself a son and brother of the people.” He added, “Traditional political parties have damaged the country. Congress shaped symbols for itself, while others used religion to seek votes, and people trusted them.”

On drugs, he said, “These parties destroyed generations of Punjab by pushing drugs into the veins of youth. Those responsible are now making hollow claims to mislead people, but they can never be forgiven.” He added, “It is not money but deeds that earn a place in people’s hearts, and we have worked tirelessly for public welfare.”

Listing achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The AAP government has started Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhian Satkar scheme under which women above 18 years of age from general category will receive ₹1000 per month and women from SC category will receive ₹1500. This is a mark of respect for mothers and daughters and their smiles give me satisfaction.”

On employment, he said, “We want to put tiffins in the hands of youth so they stay away from drugs. Idle hands are the devil’s workshop, so we are ensuring maximum employment. So far more than 65,000 government jobs have been provided.”

On infrastructure and agriculture, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Power tariffs have been reduced across all sectors. Canal water usage has increased from 21% to 68% and will reach 85% by next paddy season. Around 18,349 water courses spanning 6900 km have been revived and ₹6500 crore has been spent to strengthen the canal system.”

He added, “For the first time, 1365 villages are receiving canal water. Work is underway on more than 49,000 km of rural roads at a cost of ₹16,209 crore.”

On education, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Schools of Eminence have been established with modern infrastructure, smart classrooms and labs. Teachers and principals are being sent abroad for training. Punjab has ranked first in the National Achievement Survey, surpassing Kerala.” He added, “Students are receiving coaching for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, CLAT and NIFT, and many have qualified from government schools.”

On healthcare, he said, “Under Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, all 65 lakh families are eligible for cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh. Punjab has become the first state to provide free healthcare to all citizens, with 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics providing daily treatment.”

He further said, “Around 90% households are receiving free electricity. Farmers are getting more than eight hours of uninterrupted daytime power during paddy season. Tariffs have been reduced by 70 paise to ₹1.50 per unit, and the government has purchased a private thermal plant and named it after Sri Guru Amar Das Ji.”

Concluding, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “My sole agenda is the progress of Punjab and prosperity of its people. I am indebted to the people of Dhuri and will leave no stone unturned for the holistic development of this region.

Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Singh Cheema, Dr Balbir Singh and Barinder Goyal were also present on the occasion.

Interacting with the business tycoons on the concluding day of the landmark Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Words are short to describe the dedication of those who have come here to attend this summit and become active partners in the economic progress of the state. Leading industrial tycoons from across the globe have converged at this historic and landmark summit. The best coaches are those who prepare their teams for every sort of hostile environment and challenge, and the state government has worked on the same pattern.”

Emphasising the spirit of the people of the state, the Chief Minister continued, “Punjabis are always leaders and we can do anything for the country and its people as we give top priority to the nation. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the new emergent field but the human brain is far more important than it, which is good for human resources development. It is heartening to see that businessmen are fast emerging as a key voice in policy making decisions.”

Referring to the deliberations held during the summit, he added, “Around 30 brainstorming sessions were conducted during the three days of the Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit, which will go a long way in accelerating the economic growth of the state. Besides putting the state on a high growth trajectory, this summit will also help in creating new job opportunities for youth. This is imperative for checking brain drain from the state and ushering in a new era of progress and prosperity.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that in a democracy the Universal Adult Franchise is very important and we are very fortunate that all of us have got this right. Everyone should exercise their right to vote so that their voice is counted. It is necessary to ensure that the democratic right of every person is acknowledged for the welfare of all.

Speaking about the impact of the AAP in politics, he said, “Manifestos of other political parties have changed ever since the advent of the Aam Aadmi Party AAP, which has brought the common man to the centre stage. Earlier the agenda for the wellbeing of the common man was nowhere and hatred and divisiveness ruled the roost. If political parties get votes in the name of caste, religion or other divisions, then why would anyone vote in the name of schools, education, health or anything else?”

“Healthy competition is a must in a country and monopolistic tendencies should be discouraged by all means because monopoly is not in the interest of any society. The world is full of examples where people from humble backgrounds have conquered the world through their hard work and dedication. Students must take inspiration from such examples to prove their mettle across the globe, and the Punjab government will facilitate them in this noble cause,” he asserted.

Using the metaphor of a bouquet, the Chief Minister added, “A bouquet contains a variety of flowers and it fascinates people because of this diversity. Similarly, besides being the nation’s food bowl, Punjab also has the distinction of being the sword arm of the country. Its people are known across the world for their courage, resilience and spirit of enterprise. Every inch of this sacred land carries the footprints of great Gurus, saints, peers and martyrs who have shown us the path to oppose tyranny, injustice and oppression.”

Recalling the legacy of the state and its martyrs, he continued, “Punjab inherits a rich cultural legacy and is known across the world for its warm hospitality. The traits of Punjabis are recognised globally. Martyrs laid down their lives for the country and we are all indebted to them. It is unfortunate that there are several forces in this country who have plundered the wealth of the nation and have backstabbed the martyrs. These leaders are in a hurry to amass huge wealth through illegal means and they will not be forgiven by the countrymen.”

Referring to the governance challenges inherited by the AAP government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “We inherited a legacy of debt, complaints and poor governance from our predecessors, but we are working to revive the state. The discussions held here have come directly from the heart and are based on mutual trust and a shared zeal to make Punjab a front runner state in the industrial sector. The earlier practice of forceful Memorandums of Understanding MoUs through arm twisting of industrialists has now ended and the focus is on ensuring massive industrialisation in the state.”

Highlighting participation by investors, he added, “Those who have participated in this summit have come on their own to become partners in the socio economic growth of the state. This will propel progress and prosperity in Punjab and create new job opportunities for the youth, while also giving a boost to industry. Our government is committed to making Punjab a vibrant, progressive and prosperous state.”

Emphasising the government’s focus on employment and industry, the Chief Minister stated that this task will soon be accomplished with the active support and cooperation of the industry. From the very first day my motive has been to create more and more jobs for the youth so that they can be weaned away from the drug menace by channelling their energy in a positive direction. I urge industrialists to act as messengers of the state and convey the key features of Punjab such as ease of doing business and the most conducive business environment to their colleagues in other states. Our motive is to ensure maximum investment in the state and make Punjab the industrial hub of the country.

Appreciating the organisers and participants, he added, “I congratulate Invest Punjab for successfully organising this event. The officers who worked tirelessly on the ground to make this event a huge success deserve great appreciation. I also express my gratitude to the captains of industry who have come here in large numbers to invest in the state. Punjab offers one of the most conducive environments for industrial growth. The state is a hub of the manufacturing sector and leads the country in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, Information Technology IT and others.”

Highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of the people of the state, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjabis are born to be number one because hard work and dedication run in their blood. Due to this spirit Punjabis have always excelled in every sphere and entrepreneurs from the state have carved a niche for themselves across the globe. The day is not far when Punjab will be on a high growth trajectory of industrial development.”

Thanking industry leaders for their participation, he stated, “I thank the business tycoons for being part of the growth story of the state. Our government is committed to realising the vision of transforming Punjab into a major industrial and export hub in the world. We want holistic economic and financial success for Punjab. I firmly believe that the key pillars of our growth are good governance, digitisation, decisiveness, transparency and sensitivity. Combined with our rich heritage, tradition and culture, these strengths create a conducive environment for people from across the globe to grow here exponentially. Punjab takes pride in playing a crucial role in India’s contribution towards strengthening the global value and supply chain through its manufacturing and infrastructure.”

On the occasion, Cabinet Ministers Sanjeev Arora, Harbhajan Singh ETO and Barinder Goyal, along with Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and others, also addressed the gathering.

Councillor Nidhi Gupta, in her address, emphasized that chemical-based colors available in the market today are harmful to health, and at times the youth celebrate the festival irresponsibly, which may cause harm to others. She stated that for the past several years, the team has resolved to celebrate Holi with natural flowers and devotional spirit in the area so that love, peace, and harmony continue to prevail in society. On this occasion, Mr. Raman Kumar also shared his message, saying that Holi is not merely a festival of colors but a celebration that connects hearts, and it should be observed with dignity, restraint, and social responsibility to spread positive energy in society.

The event was graced by Punjab Cabinet Minister Hardip Singh Mundiya, MLA East Daljit Singh Grewal, BJP Punjab Vice President Jatinder Mittal, Congress District President Sanjay Talwar, Aam Aadmi Party Councillors Jaspal Singh Grewal, Lucky Chaudhary, Jaspreet Kaur (Surjit Thekedar), Ashwani Sharma, Simranpreet Kaur (Raju Baba), Pardeep Sharma Gabby, District Media President Puneet Sahni, Labour Board Director Ajay Mittal, BJP Councillors Happy Sherpuriya and Gauravjeet Singh Gora, Akali Councillor Kamal Arora, along with representatives from various political parties. In addition, members of several religious, social, and service organizations and a large number of local residents attended the celebration, creating an atmosphere filled with love and unity. Councillor Nidhi Gupta concluded by expressing her gratitude to all guests and residents and reaffirmed that the Ward 19 team will continue to promote social harmony and cultural traditions in the future.

The 12th February "Bharat Bandh" called by a joint forum of central trade unions was projected as a nationwide shutdown meant to demonstrate the enduring strength of organised labour. In reality, the day revealed how far that national influence has receded. While union leaders claimed substantial participation, reports from several states described largely normal commercial activity in most cities, functioning public transport in many regions, and only sporadic industrial disruptions. Outside a few pockets where unions retain dense political and institutional networks, daily life proceeded much as usual. Even in industrial belts where stoppages were reported, many units operated with partial attendance. The dissonance between the sweeping rhetoric of a "Bharat Bandh" and the uneven ground impact suggested that the all-India strike fell well short of its intended signal.

The outcome reflects something deeper: India's labour market has long been shaped by informality, and this pattern persists strongly today. A very large share of workers roughly 85-90% - remain in informal employment arrangements without the protections and long-term stability associated with formal factory jobs. At the same time, recent labour force surveys show that a majority of employed persons are self-employed rather than regular wage earners, underscoring how limited the traditional, unionised workforce has become. The fastest-growing segments of work lie in services, small enterprises, contract arrangements, and platform-based gig employment. In such a landscape, the traditional union model-built around large worksites and long-term collective bargaining-touches only a limited fraction of the workforce. When workers are delivery partners, freelancers, small traders or micro-entrepreneurs, a centrally coordinated strike often bears little connection to their immediate economic compulsions.
The February 12 bandh made this disconnect visible. In Kerala, the shutdown approximated a near-total halt, yet the disruption was accompanied by public criticism and allegations of coercive enforcement. In parts of western and northern India, the impact was described as uneven, with only select factories observing closures. Elsewhere, reportage focused more on preventive detentions and attempts to block roads or rail tracks than on voluntary worker participation. A movement that must rely on blockades and symbolic disruption to demonstrate vitality risks appearing detached from the organic consent of the broader workforce.

For ordinary citizens, such strikes frequently translate into inconvenience and economic loss rather than solidarity. Commuters face uncertainty, small businesses forfeit a day's revenue, and essential services are delayed. For daily wage earners and contract workers, participation can mean forfeiting income without any assurance of long-term benefit. Hospital visits, examinations, and routine transactions are disrupted. The bandh, once regarded as a dramatic instrument of democratic mobilisation, is increasingly perceived as an imposed interruption of everyday life.

Several factors explain this widening gap between unions and the wider public. Employment structures have evolved far more rapidly than union strategies. Informal and gig workers do not fit easily into conventional organising frameworks. Union leadership often remains concentrated in legacy sectors and public enterprises, where institutional leverage is stronger but representative breadth is narrower. Strike demands frequentiy focus on resisting reforms or opposing privatisation without advancing financially viable or administratively credible alternatives. This reactive posture can create the impression of resistance to change rather than constructive engagement. Fragmentation among unions further dilutes coherence and blurs public messaging, while the precarity of modern employment discourages workers from prolonged agitation.

This reckoning comes at a strategically consequential moment. The global trading environment is increasingly fraught, ght, with protectionist impulses resurfacing and supply
chains being reconfigured. Yet India has managed to conclude a series of free trade agreements and position itself as an increasingly credible manufacturing and services partner. At a time when cross-border commerce is becoming more uncertain, India's ability to secure new trade partnerships represents both opportunity and responsibility. The country cannot afford to miss this industrial inflection point - not after watching China seize a similar opportunity three decades ago and emerge as the factory of the world through sustained reforms and global integration.

None of this diminishes the normative importance of collective worker organisation. On the contrary, as India advances initiatives such as Make in India and seeks deeper integration into global value chains, questions of worker welfare, skills, productivity, and social security become even more central. But legitimacy in a modern, globally connected economy rests less on the capacity to halt activity and more on the capacity to shape reforms responsibly. Trade unions would strengthen their moral authority by engaging economic liberalisation with detailed proposals on skilling, portability of benefits, workplace safety, and dispute resolution rather than defaulting to maximalist shutdowns.

The fading resonance of all-India strikes signals not merely institutional decline but a crossroads. As a rising Bharat seeks to convert global opportunity into durable prosperity-consistent with the constitutional promise of enabling citizens to pursue their livelihoods-trade unions face a strategic choice. They can recalibrate, adopt a forward-looking posture, and become partners in national growth while safeguarding worker dignity. Or they can persist with symbolic shutdowns that mobilise shrinking constituencies. The former path alone aligns worker welfare with India's economic resurgence. And at this juncture in India's economic journey, that alignment is not optional - it is essential.

Kamal Madishetty is an Assistant Professor at Rishihood University, Haryana.

Founded in 2019, Humanity NGO has steadily grown into a nationally recognized social organization under the leadership of Ishu Kalra. The NGO has been actively involved in welfare programs including food distribution, medical aid, support for homeless individuals, and relief work during emergencies. Its consistent contribution toward social upliftment has earned widespread appreciation from the public as well as support from Bollywood celebrities.

Over the years, Ishu Kalra has been honoured with several awards and recognitions for his dedication to humanitarian service and community welfare. His leadership has positioned Humanity NGO as a trusted name in social service, particularly in Punjab and other parts of India.

Marking MahaShivratri 2026, the NGO’s latest initiative stands out due to its scale and planning. Unlike previous years, this time ration distribution will take place simultaneously at different locations across the city, ensuring better accessibility for beneficiaries and wider coverage. Each ration kit will contain essential food items sufficient for a full month, offering much-needed support to economically weaker sections.

Speaking on the occasion, Ishu Kalra stated that serving humanity is the true essence of spirituality. He emphasized that festivals like MahaShivratri provide an opportunity to stand with the underprivileged and spread compassion, equality, and social responsibility.

With this initiative, Humanity NGO once again reinforces its commitment to inclusive development and social harmony, continuing its mission to support the needy and create a positive impact at the grassroots level.

Jalalabad (Fazilka), August 31 : Punjab Additional Chief Secretary-cum-Financial Commissioner Revenue Sh. Anurag Verma today chaired a review meeting with officials at the SDM Office, Jalalabad to assess the ongoing flood relief operations in Fazilka district. He directed the Deputy Commissioner and other officers to ensure that relief operations continue without any lapse and that every affected individual receives necessary aid.

He assured that there is no shortage of funds for relief work and that the government will release funds as per requirement. The Drainage Department was instructed to maintain strict vigil on the embankments and drains along the Sutlej river and to ensure that no further breach occurs. He further directed that the natural flow of water in the drains must not be obstructed and any blockage, if found, should be cleared immediately to prevent overflow.

Mr. Verma also stressed that people shifted to relief camps should not face any inconvenience and relief material must reach the affected families after proper identification.

Deputy Commissioner Fazilka Amarpreeet Kaur Sandhu apprised that 22988 people have been affected in the district, of which 2049 have been safely evacuated. Presently, 1201 individuals are staying in relief camps.

She informed that 4558 ration kits and 2017 bags of cattle feed have been distributed so far. Besides this, 55 trolleys of green fodder and 4800 water bottles have been provided in the affected areas. Overall, 32 villages and nearly 13000 acres of farmland have been impacted by floods in Fazilka district, she added.

Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Additional Deputy Commissioner General Dr. Mandeep Kaur, SDMs Krishna Pal Rajput and Kanwarjit Singh Mann, Assistant Commissioner General Amandeep Singh Mavi, Superintending Engineer Rajan Dhingra, Executive Engineer Alok Chaudhary and DSP Avinash Chander.

Jalalabad, August 31 : In line with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s directions for all ministers to remain on the ground and stand firmly with the people during this crisis, Agriculture Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian today visited Fazilka district for the second consecutive day. During his visit, he inspected the flood-affected villages of Dhani Bachan Singh, Atuwala, and Dhani Natha Singh in the Jalalabad Assembly constituency. Jalalabad MLA Mr. Jagdeep Kamboj Goldy also accompanied him.
Interacting with the villagers, Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian assured them that the Punjab Government stands strongly with the people in this difficult time. He said that proper girdawari (crop loss assessment) will be carried out and compensation will be provided to the affected farmers. He further clarified that the compensation policy is decided by the Central Government, and continuous pressure is being exerted on the Centre to increase the compensation rate to ₹25,000 per acre.
He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is ensuring all possible immediate assistance to the flood-affected people. Relief kits for families, as well as cattle feed and fodder for animals, are being supplied to the affected villages. On this occasion, he personally supervised the distribution of maize silage and cattle feed for livestock.

MLA Jalalabad Mr. Jagdeep Kamboj Goldy stated that through the administration, continuous efforts are being made to ensure that every affected person receives relief and that no family is left deprived of assistance.

Fazilka, August 31 : Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur today visited flood-affected areas of Village Noor Shah, near Chand Bhan Drain in Fazilka district, and personally distributed relief material to the affected families. She was accompanied by Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna and former Abohar MLA Arun Narang.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Baljit Kaur said that under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is committed to ensuring all possible assistance to flood-affected people. She emphasized that there is no shortage of funds for relief operations, adding that in Fazilka constituency alone, relief material worth over ₹70 lakh has been distributed. This includes the supply of 4,558 ration kits and 2,017 bags of cattle feed, along with other essential items. Relief camps are also being equipped with all basic facilities.

The Minister appreciated the resilience of border area residents and assured that once the flood water recedes, special girdawari (crop loss assessment) will be carried out to compensate for damages. She further informed that old-age homes have been opened for elderly persons displaced by floods, while special directions have been issued to prioritize the evacuation of differently-abled persons.

Earlier in the day, Dr. Baljit Kaur reviewed the ongoing relief measures at the District Administrative Complex with Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu and other senior officials. She also interacted with volunteers engaged in relief activities, encouraging them to continue supporting flood-affected families.

During her visit to Village Noor Shah, the Minister also distributed sanitary pads and mosquito nets to women and Food Kits to all families. Among those present were Chairman Market Committee Parmjeet Singh Noor Shah, District President Upkar Singh Jakhar, Media Coordinator Charanjit Singh Dhaliwal, besides senior officers including ADC (Development) Sh. Subhash Chander, SDM Virpal Kaur, and Tehsildar Jaspreet Singh.

The Minister, along with MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna, also joined flood-hit families for a community langar meal organized at the flood relief site.