Punjab's Innovative Sikhya Kranti Transforms Education

Under the innovative 'Punjab Sikhya Kranti' initiative led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, significant advancements in educational infrastructure were inaugurated by Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema. The ceremony took place on Monday in various government schools within the Dirba constituency. The development projects, collectively valued at Rs 108.61 lakh, were unveiled at the high school in Kamalpur village, the Government Senior Secondary Smart School in Mauran village, and the Comrade Bhim Singh School of Eminence in Dirba. The funds were distributed with Rs 41.19 lakh allocated to Kamalpur, Rs 13.65 lakh to Mauran, and Rs 53.77 lakh to Dirba. Highlighting the government's dedication to education reform, Finance Minister Cheema asserted that the Mann administration is committed to overhauling the education sector. The 'Punjab Sikhya Kranti' aims to upgrade all 20,000 government schools in the state, with around 12,000 already witnessing major enhancements. Cheema pointed out the past neglect by previous governments but noted that the Aam Aadmi Party-led administration has increased the education budget by a commendable 57 percent in its first year. Minister Cheema also emphasized the government's strides in improving school infrastructure and teacher training, marking a historic first for Punjab as teachers are being sent overseas for advanced training programs. Furthermore, the administration has created employment opportunities by recruiting approximately 20,000 new teachers, benefiting individuals from ordinary backgrounds. The success of these initiatives is evident, with about 200 students from government schools passing the competitive JEE examination. To further promote academic excellence, the Punjab Government has instituted Schools of Eminence, furnished with specialized laboratories, educational parks, and infrastructure such as separate restrooms for boys and girls as well as transportation and essential staff. Beyond educational reforms, the Cabinet Minister, who functions as the Chairman of the Yodh Nashian Virudh Cabinet Sub-Committee, emphasized efforts to combat drug abuse through the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign. The government is implementing stringent measures against drug traffickers while ensuring the treatment and rehabilitation of victims. Initiatives include anti-drone systems and the recruitment of additional personnel for the Punjab Home Guard to prevent drug trafficking along the Pakistan border. Minister Cheema expressed that these measures aim to restore Punjab's vibrancy and transform it into ‘Rangla Punjab’ once more.