Chandigarh, 08 June (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday handed over appointment letters to 355 newly recruited candidates, taking the total number of government jobs provided by the state government since 2022 to 67,037. The Chief Minister described the achievement as a reflection of the government’s commitment to merit-based, transparent and corruption-free recruitment.

Addressing the gathering, Mann said government jobs in Punjab are now being awarded solely on the basis of hard work, merit and fair competition, without any recommendations, political influence or bribery. He contrasted Punjab’s recruitment system with the situation in several parts of the country, noting that while examination paper leaks have affected the confidence of youth elsewhere, Punjab has not witnessed a single paper leak since 2022.

The appointment letters were distributed to candidates selected in various departments, including Technical Education, Cooperation, Local Government, Water Supply and Sanitation, Animal Husbandry, Public Works, and Housing and Urban Development. Congratulating the recruits, the Chief Minister said the government had fulfilled its responsibility by creating opportunities, and it was now the responsibility of the newly appointed employees to serve people with dedication and honesty.

Highlighting the government’s broader vision for youth empowerment, Mann said Punjab is creating an environment that encourages young people to build their future within the state rather than seeking opportunities abroad. He pointed to signs of reverse migration and reiterated the government’s commitment to generating employment and strengthening skills among the youth.

Mann further announced that the state government is moving ahead with a plan to regularise around 65,000 contractual employees through a phased process backed by new legislation. He said the initiative would provide dignity, security and a clear pathway to permanent employment for thousands of workers serving in government departments.

Several newly recruited candidates praised the transparent recruitment process, stating that securing a government job without political backing or monetary influence has restored confidence among Punjab’s youth and strengthened faith in the state’s employment system.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH