Chandigarh, August 17: Punjab celebrated its 80th Independence Day at a state-level event in Ferozepur, where Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that the milestone year will focus on securing economic freedom for women across the state.
Addressing the gathering at Cantt Board Stadium after taking the salute, the Chief Minister pointed to the rollout of the Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna, under which over 65 lakh women out of 74.59 lakh registered applicants have already received monthly financial support totaling ₹2,274 crore.
“For the first time, women have the freedom to spend their own money as they wish,” stated Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, asserting that the administration remains dedicated to creating a prosperous state aligned with the vision of national heroes.
The Chief Minister paid homage to martyrs at Hussainiwala, recalling Punjab’s profound sacrifices during the freedom struggle and the severe impacts of Partition, while confirming that a ₹25 crore Heritage Complex is currently under construction at the historic site.
Reviewing key administrative milestones, officials noted that government schools achieved top national rankings, over 69,000 merit-based public jobs were delivered, and canal water irrigation coverage expanded from 26 percent to 80 percent across agricultural fields.
“Any conspiracy to break Punjab’s brotherhood will receive a befitting response,” declared the Chief Minister, maintaining that strong measures against drug trafficking alongside initiatives like the Sadak Surakhya Force continue to strengthen public safety across all border districts.
