Punjab Secures Over ₹10,000 Crore in Investments at Summit 2026

The **Progressive Punjab Investors Summit 2026** commenced in **Mohali** on Friday, culminating in strong investment commitments exceeding **₹10,000 crore** on its opening day. This event attracted leading industry figures who announced plans to expand their operations in the state, showcasing a renewed confidence in Punjab’s economic potential.

Addressing the audience, **Arvind Kejriwal**, National Convenor of the **Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)**, emphasized that the Punjab government is committed to creating a supportive environment for industries to thrive, enabling them to compete effectively with global players like China. He highlighted the progress made under the current administration, which has attracted **₹1.5 lakh crore** in investments over the past four years. Kejriwal pointed out the introduction of a **45-day single-window clearance system** designed to streamline the approval process for new and expanding industries.

**Bhagwant Singh Mann**, the Chief Minister of Punjab, expressed optimism for the state’s economic future. He described the summit as a pivotal moment in Punjab’s journey towards becoming a major investment destination, underscoring the government’s efforts to implement pro-industry policies alongside advancements in education, healthcare, and skilled labor training.

Kejriwal shared anecdotes about Punjab’s rich cultural history, stating, “Punjab is the land of gurus and hardworking people.” He reminded attendees about the state’s historical significance in India’s agricultural success and sacrifices during the freedom struggle, reinforcing the idea that Punjab is a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Reflecting on Punjab’s economic trajectory, Kejriwal noted that the state, once a leader in per capita income in the 1980s, had slipped to the **18th position** over the past four decades. He attributed this decline to a lack of trust in local talent and a bureaucratic environment that stifled industrial growth. “When we took charge of the government in 2022, industries were leaving Punjab for states like Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh,” he said, highlighting the challenges inherited by the new administration.

To address these issues, Kejriwal detailed the reforms initiated by his government. The **Fast Track Punjab portal**, launched in June 2022, aims to simplify the approval process. “If you want to set up a new industry or expand an existing one, you will receive approval within a flat **45 days** through a single window system,” he explained. If approvals are not granted within this timeframe, the system automatically provides deemed approval on the following day.

Kejriwal contrasted the current system with the previous one, where business approvals were often contingent on bribes to officials. He stated, “There was a time when unless you paid offerings to some minister or officer, approvals were not granted. Now that is no longer the case.” This shift is designed to empower entrepreneurs and reduce bureaucratic red tape.

In addition to easing the approval process, the government is focusing on supporting **Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)**. For investments up to **₹15 crore**, entrepreneurs now require no prior approval, receiving necessary documentation within **five days** through self-certification.

Kejriwal also emphasized the importance of investing in human capital, noting that countries like Japan and Germany have successfully prioritized education and healthcare. “When we studied other countries, we found that investing in health and education is crucial for industrial success,” he remarked. Under the current administration, Punjab has seen significant improvements in its education system, rising from **18th place** to **first** in the country in just three years.

He shared that students from government schools are now excelling in competitive exams, with **300** students clearing the **JEE** and **800** passing the **NEET** last year. This transformation is a direct result of the government’s educational reforms and investments in teacher training.

On the healthcare front, Kejriwal highlighted improvements in government hospitals, stating that a new scheme provides coverage of up to **₹10 lakh** for poor families, ensuring access to necessary medical treatment without the burden of debt.

These reforms have begun to yield tangible results, as evidenced by the influx of investments amounting to **₹1.5 lakh crore**, already translating into the creation of **550,000 jobs** in Punjab.

Mann echoed Kejriwal’s sentiments, stating, “Punjabis are known for their entrepreneurial abilities and innovation.” He praised the resilience and work ethic of the local population, emphasizing their capacity to thrive even under challenging conditions.

The Chief Minister invited global investors to capitalize on Punjab’s rich resources and skilled workforce, asserting that the state is well-positioned to become a leading industrial hub. He remarked, “We welcome industries with open arms and will provide a conducive environment for growth.”

As the summit progresses, both Kejriwal and Mann are optimistic about the future of Punjab, aiming to transform the state into a vibrant center of economic activity and innovation. The government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency is expected to foster a business-friendly climate, paving the way for greater investments and sustainable growth in the years to come.