Punjab villages must emerge as India’s most developed, says CM Bhagwant Mann

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Bathinda, June 24

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday called upon sarpanches to spearhead the transformation of rural Punjab, asserting that villages across the state should become the most developed in the country. He said the state government remains committed to comprehensive rural development and will ensure adequate financial support for village welfare initiatives.

Addressing sarpanches and panchs from Rampura Phul and Talwandi Sabo during a Sarpanch Milni program, Mann urged panchayats to make prudent use of government grants and ensure that development benefits reach every section of society.

The Chief Minister emphasized that education, rural infrastructure, libraries, schools, and solar-powered facilities should remain key priorities to promote balanced and sustainable growth in villages.

Describing sarpanches as the backbone of grassroots democracy, Mann said they remain closely connected with people and possess a deeper understanding of local issues than anyone else.

“A capable sarpanch can bring significant change to a village and improve the lives of its residents,” he said.

Mann stated that the interaction programme was aimed at understanding concerns at the village level and identifying practical solutions. He reiterated that sufficient grants are being provided to villages and stressed that public funds must be utilized honestly, efficiently, and transparently.

The meeting also reviewed various initiatives of the state government, including merit-based employment opportunities, improvements in the education sector, rural development projects, and enhanced canal water supply for farmers.

Highlighting the role of panchayats in implementing government policies and welfare schemes, Mann urged sarpanches to closely monitor development works and maintain transparency in their execution.

Expressing concern over factionalism in villages, the Chief Minister called on elected representatives to rise above political and social divisions.

“Once elected, a sarpanch represents the entire village and must work impartially for the welfare of all residents,” he said. Mann also appreciated villages that elected panchayats unanimously, saying such decisions strengthen social harmony and accelerate development.

Underscoring the increasing participation of women in local governance, the Chief Minister encouraged women sarpanches to take on a larger role in public life and politics. He said that women have excelled in various fields and should contribute more actively to decision-making.

According to Mann, education, representation and economic opportunities remain essential pillars of women’s empowerment. He added that greater participation of women in politics would strengthen democracy and help build a progressive and prosperous Punjab.

The Chief Minister said the government will continue engaging with village representatives to address local concerns and ensure that rural Punjab remains at the centre of the state’s development agenda.