Mann Urges Villages to Unite Beyond Factional Lines

Denounces Centre’s Move on MGNREGAInteracts with residents at his native village Satauj

Satauj (Sangrur), December 19

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday called on villages across the state to rise above factionalism and uphold the values of brotherhood and communal harmony, stressing that unity is essential for progress and prosperity.

During an interaction with residents at his native village Satauj, Mann shared memories of his childhood, saying he felt “immense happiness” returning home. “I have not come to deliver a speech but to share in the joys and sorrows of my people,” he said, adding that he would always remain indebted to Satauj for its love and affection.

The Chief Minister cautioned that divisions created for personal or political gain impede development. “Some leaders sow discord in villages for selfish interests, but unity is what drives growth,” he remarked.

Encouraging public involvement in education, Mann invited parents to attend the Mega Parent–Teacher Meetings (PTMs) being held on December 20 across 19,000 government schools in Punjab. He said the PTM initiative—introduced for the first time in state-run schools under his government—has fostered stronger collaboration between teachers and families, helping children better prepare for the future.

To further raise education standards, Mann noted that principals and teachers have been sent for training to countries such as Singapore and Finland, and that advanced training is being provided at IIM Ahmedabad.

Speaking on employment, the Chief Minister said his government was providing transparent recruitment opportunities, with over 58,000 youths having received government jobs since March 2022. He added that many families have benefited multiple times under the drive, which he said underscores the administration’s focus on fairness and merit.

Turning his attention to national policy, Mann strongly criticized the BJP-led Central Government’s recent changes to the MGNREGA scheme, calling them an “attempt to ruin the poor and the states.” He said the Centre’s decision to transfer 40 percent of the funding burden onto states—which already face delayed fund releases—undermines the program’s purpose.

According to Mann, restricting MGNREGA workers from carrying out tasks like building schools, mandis, and drains would sabotage the scheme’s community impact. “It’s a direct attack on rural development,” he said. “By shrinking its scope, the Centre is paving the way to shut MGNREGA down altogether.”

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to balanced and inclusive development, Mann said his administration would continue to focus on unity, education, and employment as foundations for a progressive Punjab.