Hoshiarpur, Jan 26: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann unfurled the national flag in Hoshiarpur on Monday to mark the 77th Republic Day. After taking the salute from the parade, the Chief Minister addressed the public, extending his congratulations to all citizens while honoring the legacy of those who fought for independence.
“I am proud of those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for the country’s freedom and I pay tribute to thousands of patriotic warriors,” the Chief Minister said. He noted that Punjabis have consistently been at the forefront of both the freedom struggle and the nation’s food security, contributing 60 percent of the country’s food grains.
Addressing internal security, the Chief Minister issued a stern warning to gangsters, urging them to abandon the path of crime. He stated that those supporting criminal activities would face serious consequences, promising that the state government would maintain unity and brotherhood despite attempts to create divisions. He also mentioned that the fight against drugs remains a priority, referencing the dedicated helpline 98991-0002 for public assistance.
The Chief Minister touched upon various welfare initiatives, including the provision of free electricity to 90 percent of households and the distribution of 63,027 government jobs based strictly on merit. He also mentioned that health life insurance cards are being extended to 65 lakh families, now including government employees and pensioners without income limit restrictions.
