Chandigarh, April 1: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday announced the commencement of the state’s first-ever caste socio-economic survey, aimed at gathering data to ensure more equitable and targeted development policies. Speaking in Chandigarh as part of the “Shandaar Char Saal Bhagwant Mann de naal” series, the Chief Minister stated that the survey, which began April 1, will assess the living standards of all communities while maintaining strict confidentiality.
The Chief Minister presented a comprehensive report card for the Rural Development and Panchayat Department, noting a significant increase in infrastructure spending. According to the report, the state spent Rs 3,847 crore on village development over the last four years, compared to Rs 1,883 crore during the previous five-year term. “Holistic development of the villages has taken place… involving massive construction work and cleaning of ponds,” the Chief Minister affirmed. He further declared that the government has successfully recovered illegal encroachments on Panchayat lands, generating Rs 1,842.78 crore through transparent leasing.
The state’s sports and education initiatives also featured prominently in the address. The Chief Minister stated that approximately 3,000 rural playgrounds are being developed with an investment of Rs 1,166 crore to engage the youth positively. Additionally, 231 new village libraries have been completed to assist students preparing for competitive examinations.
Regarding employment, the Chief Minister asserted that the AAP government has spent Rs 5,146 crore on the MGNREGA scheme since 2022, providing jobs to nearly 9 lakh people. However, he voiced strong opposition to recent changes made by the Central government to the scheme, maintaining that such restrictions could hinder rural employment. He also noted that the Union government is withholding Punjab’s rightful funds under various grants, a move he characterized as “step-motherly treatment” that the state will contest legally and administratively.
