CHANDIGARH, APRI 13 —An achievement for the state’s education sector, girls secured 19 of the top 20 positions in the Punjab School Education Board’s Class 8 examinations. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, while hosting the achievers at his residence Sunday, declared that these students would receive direct admission into the state’s Schools of Eminence.
The Chief Minister affirmed that the top 20 merit holders are now exempt from entrance tests for the prestigious schools, a move intended to reward academic excellence. He also presented cash awards of ₹50,000 each to the three highest-scoring students.
“These results clearly demonstrate that children from ordinary and humble families are now setting new benchmarks in the field of education,” the Chief Minister stated. “Seeing the self-confidence, hard work, and dedication of these children filled us with immense joy and pride.”
Tamanna of Faridkot topped the state with a perfect score, followed by Japneet Kaur of Sangrur and Jashandeep Kaur of Faridkot. The Chief Minister noted that the leading trio also excel as state and national-level athletes. He asserted that the success of students from modest backgrounds, including the daughter of a brick kiln worker and a tile shop owner, reflects the progress of the state’s “Sikhya Kranti.”
The government maintained that improving school infrastructure remains a primary focus. Chief Minister Mann declared that Punjab is emerging as a national role model in education by bridging socio-economic gaps through quality learning environments.
“For the first time, girls have secured 19 out of the top 20 positions, with only one boy at the 20th rank,” the Chief Minister affirmed. “By achieving all the first 19 positions, girls have once again proven that they are second to none in any field.”
