Punjab government has provided 71,777 jobs so far; another 600 appointments expected next week

Mohali, 03 November (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann handed over appointment letters to 801 newly recruited candidates in Mohali on Tuesday, describing the initiative as a Diwali gift to the youth. With these appointments, the total number of government jobs provided under the Aam Aadmi Party government has reached 71,777.

Addressing the gathering, CM Mann asserted that all recruitments had been conducted strictly on merit, without recommendations, political influence or bribery. He challenged opposition parties to prove even a single case of corruption in the recruitment process.

Government jobs are being provided without cash or recommendations. Every deserving candidate is getting an opportunity based on merit, Mann said.

The Chief Minister announced that another 600 young people would receive government jobs next week. He said additional employment opportunities had been created in the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL).

Taking aim at previous Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal governments, Mann alleged that government jobs were earlier sold through money, recommendations and bribes worth lakhs of rupees. He claimed recruitment processes frequently remained entangled in legal disputes, causing candidates to cross the maximum eligible age before appointments were finalised.

Congratulating the newly appointed employees and their families, Mann urged them to discharge their duties with honesty, dedication and responsibility. He also encouraged young employees to prepare for Union Public Service Commission examinations and aspire to become IAS and IPS officers.

Highlighting achievements in education, the Chief Minister claimed that Punjab had emerged as a leading state in school education due to improvements in infrastructure and educational facilities.

Discussing agricultural reforms, Mann said the government had strengthened the canal irrigation network, enabling nearly 18,000 cusecs of water to reach agricultural fields. He claimed these initiatives had reduced dependence on groundwater and contributed to improvements in groundwater levels in several areas.

The Chief Minister also highlighted government initiatives in healthcare, sports, infrastructure and employment. He said investments in sporting facilities would help young people pursue meaningful careers while keeping them away from drugs and other social problems.

Criticising opposition parties, Mann accused them of attempting to discredit his government because of its development initiatives.

Reaffirming his commitment to building a prosperous 'Rangla Punjab', Mann said his government would continue creating employment opportunities and strengthening public services. He described the appointment letters as symbols of hope, dignity and financial security for thousands of Punjabi families.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH