Budget to be presented in March; committed to welfare of every section, says Bhagwant Mann
Ahmedabad (The Uttam Hindu): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the Punjab Government will present its fifth pro-people Budget in March, focusing on the welfare of all sections of society. Speaking to the media, he said the government has consistently taken citizen-centric decisions aimed at changing the direction of the state.
He stated that the upcoming Budget will continue the tradition of presenting welfare-oriented measures and ensuring benefits for common people. According to him, the primary goal of the government is public welfare, and the forthcoming Budget will provide significant relief and support to the people of Punjab.
Criticism of central government policies
Targeting the BJP-led NDA government, Bhagwant Mann said that the Union Budgets presented in recent years have lacked direction and have favored affluent sections. He alleged that in Gujarat, where there is limited opposition presence, people are facing hardships. He also claimed that opposition voices are being suppressed.
Issue of states’ financial rights
Raising the issue of financial federalism, the Chief Minister said that Punjab’s rightful share of the Rural Development Fund has been withheld by the Centre. He stated that similar actions are being taken against other non-BJP ruled states. He emphasized that democracy thrives when every voice is heard and respected.
Focus on health sector reforms
Highlighting health initiatives, Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab has opened 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics to provide free medical services. He also mentioned the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, under which families in Punjab are eligible for cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh. He claimed that Punjab is among the first states to offer such comprehensive health coverage, reducing financial burden on families.
Education and infrastructure development
On education reforms, he said the Punjab Education Revolution aims to upgrade infrastructure in government schools. The government is working to transform 118 senior secondary schools with smart classrooms, modern laboratories, and sports facilities. Teachers and principals are being sent abroad for training to improve academic standards. He added that Punjab secured the top position in the National Achievement Survey conducted by the Government of India, surpassing Kerala.
Regarding infrastructure, he said the state has undertaken a major road construction drive, building 44,920 kilometers of roads at a cost of ₹16,209 crore, with a five-year maintenance clause to ensure quality and safety standards.
Support for security personnel and toll relief
The Chief Minister stated that the families of armed forces, paramilitary personnel, and Agniveers who lose their lives in the line of duty are provided ₹1 crore in financial assistance, while families of police personnel who die on duty receive ₹2 crore. He described this as a mark of respect for their sacrifice.
He also said that the state government has closed 19 toll plazas, leading to daily savings of approximately ₹64 lakh for the public.
Reaffirming his commitment, Bhagwant Mann said that every policy decision of the Punjab Government is aimed at strengthening democracy, empowering citizens, and ensuring welfare-driven governance.