The North News
Chandigarh, February 4
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to increasing youth recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces. In a meeting with a delegation led by Air Marshal Hardeep Bains, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Mann emphasized Punjab’s historical contribution to the armed forces, citing the state’s glorious past, though acknowledging a recent dip in recruitment numbers.Mann stated that initiatives like the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, and C-Pyte centres are working to reinvigorate youth participation in the armed forces. The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s strategic importance, given its 532 km border with Pakistan, reinforcing the need for robust armed forces support.
As part of the state’s commitment to soldiers’ welfare, Mann shared that Punjab provides Rs 1 crore in financial assistance to the families of martyrs from the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and police. This initiative, in line with the state government’s dedication to the well-being of its forces, aims to secure the future of martyrs’ families. Mann also praised the success of the Sadak Surakhya Force, launched in February last year to improve road safety. With 1,597 specially trained personnel, including women, the force has contributed to a 48 percent reduction in accident-related casualties along state and national highways.
The Chief Minister welcomed a delegation of 15 officers, including six foreign delegates from countries like Sri Lanka, Egypt, Korea, Oman, and Russia. The delegation is on a tour of Punjab from February 3-7 to learn about the state’s socio-economic, political, and cultural dynamics. Mann expressed hope that the visit would provide insights into Punjab’s governance challenges, as well as showcase the state’s development programs in areas like rural development, health, education, and women’s empowerment.
