CM Pushes for More Youth in Armed Forces During NDC Meet

by The_unmuteenglish

Chandigarh, February 4 – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to increasing youth recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces, stressing Punjab’s historical contributions to national defense.

During a meeting with a National Defence College (NDC) delegation led by Air Marshal Hardeep Bains, Mann brought out efforts to revive the declining trend of military enlistment.

He cited the role of institutions like Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, and C-PYTE centers in preparing youth for military service.

Mann underlined Punjab’s dual identity as both the nation’s “food bowl” and its “sword arm,” attributing the state’s martial legacy to its history of resistance against oppression. Given Punjab’s 532-km border with Pakistan, and noted the vital role of the Armed Forces in regional security.

Reiterating support for soldiers, paramilitary personnel, and police, Mann noted that the state provides ₹1 crore in financial assistance to families of martyrs.

He expressed hope that this initiative would secure the future of bereaved families while honoring their sacrifice.

Discussing road safety, Mann highlighted Punjab’s launch of the Sadak Surakhya Force, a first-of-its-kind highway patrol unit.

With 1,597 trained personnel and 144 fully equipped vehicles, the force has contributed to a 48% reduction in highway accident fatalities since its inception in February last year.

Welcoming the 15-member NDC delegation, which includes six foreign officers from Sri Lanka, Egypt, Korea, Oman, Russia, and other nations,

Mann expressed confidence that their visit would provide valuable insights into Punjab’s governance, socio-political landscape, and developmental initiatives.

He directed officials to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and hospitality.

The delegation commended Punjab’s welfare measures for armed forces personnel and their families.

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