CM Mann inaugurates new five-storey school building for girls in Malerkotla

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Malerkotla, August 12

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday inaugurated a new five-storey government school building for girls in Malerkotla, describing it as an Independence Day gift for students and a step towards making quality education more accessible.

The ₹6.34-crore building, spread over 54,000 square feet, has libraries, smart classrooms, common rooms, washrooms and other modern facilities. The project was completed below its approved cost of ₹6.39 crore, saving ₹5.25 lakh, according to the state government.

Mann recalled that when he was an MP, the school operated in two shifts during winter and its old building was unsafe. He said the new facility would allow girls from Malerkotla and nearby villages to study closer to home.The Chief Minister said Punjab had moved from 27th place in education when his government took office in 2022 to first place nationally, attributing the change to teacher training, Schools of Eminence and other education initiatives.

He said the number of government-school students qualifying for NEET had risen from 80 in 2021 to 882 in 2026. Another 361 government-school students cleared JEE, while dedicated bus services are being provided to more than 15,000 girls to help them continue their education. Mann also highlighted the government’s plans in healthcare, employment and infrastructure, including a proposed medical college in Malerkotla. He said the college would provide medical services as well as employment opportunities for local young people.

The Chief Minister used the occasion to appeal to people to protect Punjab’s tradition of communal harmony. He also criticised opposition parties, accusing them of trying to divide people for political gain.