Punjab CM Mann Criticizes Past Governments for Education Failures

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann accused past ruling parties, particularly the Akali Dal and Congress, of deliberately neglecting education for the province’s children. Speaking in Sardulgarh on February 24, 2026, Mann stated that these parties focused on consolidating power for their families rather than advancing public welfare.

Mann made these comments during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for a new Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI), which aims to skill 240 students annually. He claimed that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government is committed to honest governance, contrasting it with the outdated practices of the BJP, Akali Dal, and Congress.

The Chief Minister described the Akali Dal as a “dinosaur” that has hindered progress in Punjab. He emphasized the AAP’s efforts to prepare the youth for future opportunities in fields such as engineering and medicine. Mann remarked, “While the AAP government is making strenuous efforts to prepare Punjabi youth for futuristic needs, the Akali Dal is bent upon dragging them back.”

He criticized the Akali Dal’s recent Punjab Bachao Yatra, calling it a facade aimed at protecting its political families rather than the interests of the state. Mann reminded attendees of the Akali Dal’s support for controversial agricultural laws that adversely affected farmers, which he labeled as a betrayal.

Mann asserted that traditional political parties are struggling to accept that a common man now leads the state. He pointed out that the public has lost trust in these parties due to their perceived anti-people actions. He believes that the AAP’s focus on education and welfare has shifted the political landscape in Punjab.

In his address, Mann highlighted the transformation of schools in Punjab, noting that previous administrations had reduced them to mere Mid Day Meal Centres. He affirmed that the AAP government is committed to enhancing educational standards, having established 118 Schools of Eminence and sending teachers abroad for training.

Mann emphasized the importance of education for social mobility, stating, “In the coming days, a person will be called rich not by his wealth but by the education acquired by his children.” He also reported significant investments in public services, including free healthcare and agricultural support.

The Punjab government has introduced the Meri Rasoi Yojna, which aims to provide food kits to 40 lakh families starting in April. Each kit will include essential items to support families struggling with daily meals.

In addition to educational and nutritional initiatives, Mann announced infrastructure projects, including new bridges and healthcare facilities, to improve living standards in rural areas. He noted that a new bridge at village Bhalluana will cost ₹12.03 crore, aimed at reducing travel distances for local residents.

Minister Harjot Singh Bains praised the ITI project, asserting that it would create employment opportunities for the youth and bolster the economy. He reiterated the government’s commitment to health and education as cornerstones for societal well-being.

The event attracted various dignitaries, including senior AAP leader and Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia, who expressed pride in the projects being launched under the AAP government.

Through these initiatives, Mann aims to reshape Punjab’s future, focusing on education, health, and infrastructure to ensure that citizens benefit from effective governance and a stable economy.