The North News
Chandigarh, March 8
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday announced plans to establish two new ‘Brainstorming Centres’ in Amritsar and Mohali, offering students a platform to share business ideas, modeled on Munich’s Speakers Platform in Germany. The initiative builds on the state’s ‘Business Blasters’ program, which has already distributed ₹11 crore to students to nurture entrepreneurial spirit. Addressing the gathering, Mann said the new centres would encourage fresh business ideas, providing young minds with the resources to innovate and thrive. “The focus is on employment-based education and developing skills that align with the modern world’s demands,” he said, highlighting Punjab’s embrace of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across policing, agriculture, and finance sectors to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Mann extended his wishes on International Women’s Day, quoting the Sikh scripture, “So Kyu Manda Akheyeye Jitt Jame Rajan,” underscoring the respect accorded to women by the Sikh Gurus. Expressing concern over female foeticide, he lauded girls for excelling in every field and described them as “creators” with the unique ability to nurture and transform the world. The Chief Minister detailed the state’s strides in empowering women, noting that Punjab has appointed 11 women as MLAs, eight as Deputy Commissioners, three as Senior Superintendents of Police, and one as Commissioner of Police. Additionally, amendments in recruitment rules now make Punjab the first state to allow women in firefighting roles.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Mann recalled his early nervousness during a stage performance in Sunam, using the story to inspire the youth. He emphasized the importance of hard work, commitment, and perseverance, noting his journey from a common background to becoming the leader of 3.5 crore Punjabis. Mann announced new initiatives, including skill development programs, scholarships, entrepreneurship opportunities, and financial aid aimed at empowering women and youth. He underscored his government’s efforts to create an inclusive society with equal opportunities for all.
The Chief Minister also pointed to a “reverse trend” in Punjab, with fewer young people seeking to go abroad, attributing this shift to his government’s initiatives to restore hope and opportunity within the state. “I won’t rest until the students of Punjab achieve their goals,” he declared.
