Punjab CM Unveils Education Reforms and Budget Expansion

Chandigarh, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann recently presented a comprehensive overview of the state's education sector, showcasing pivotal reforms, budget increases, and enhanced academic results achieved over the past four years.

During a press conference as part of the "Shandaar Char Saal Bhagwant Mann de naal" campaign, Mann highlighted the government's "Shiksha Kranti" initiative, which has transformed government schools into competitive institutions focused on outcomes.

The education budget has seen a significant increase from ₹12,657 crore in 2021-22 to ₹19,279 crore for the 2026-27 period, reflecting a strong financial commitment to the education sector.

This year's allocation is approximately seven percent higher than the previous year's budget.

Emphasizing the key role of education in development, the Chief Minister noted that nations prioritizing education tend to progress across various fields.

Mann criticized previous administrations for creating a divide between private and government schools, asserting that his government has focused on bridging this gap through infrastructure upgrades and improved teaching standards in public institutions.

He stated that government schools in Punjab are now comparable to private institutions, providing parents with a credible alternative.

To ensure accountability, starting April 1, parents will receive updates regarding their children's attendance, along with notifications for teacher absences.

In terms of academic achievements, Punjab ranked first in the National Achievement Survey 2024, surpassing several other states, with government school students scoring 18 percent above the national average.

Additionally, 740 students have successfully cleared the Joint Entrance Examination, while 1,284 achieved qualification for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, indicating a rise in academic performance within government schools.

Regarding institutional development, 118 Schools of Eminence are being established across Punjab, with 60 already operational, aimed at providing specialized education and career-oriented guidance.

The Chief Minister also noted that around 24 lakh parents participated in large-scale parent-teacher meetings, enhancing community involvement in education.

To promote inclusivity, free bus services have been launched for female students attending government schools and Schools of Eminence, benefiting approximately 15,500 students and ensuring financial barriers do not impede education.

Furthermore, since April 2022, 14,525 teachers have been recruited, and the services of 12,316 education department employees have been regularized.

Mann outlined the government's commitment to teacher training, mentioning international training opportunities for teachers, principals, and education officers in countries such as Singapore and Finland.

The government has also prioritized the development of school facilities, including classrooms, science and computer labs, libraries, playgrounds, and separate sanitation facilities for boys and girls, along with high-speed Wi-Fi in all government schools.

Innovative programs such as the Business Blaster initiative have been introduced to foster entrepreneurial thinking among students, resulting in the generation of approximately ₹70 crore through various business ideas.

In higher education, Punjab has launched the first Digital Open University Policy-2026 and plans to establish a new university in Sri Anandpur Sahib named after Guru Tegh Bahadur.

Steps have also been taken to improve transparency in college admissions through an online portal.

Mann highlighted efforts to promote the Punjabi language and culture, stating that Punjabi has become mandatory for official work under the Punjab Language Act, and thousands of books and rare manuscripts have been digitized to preserve literary heritage.

He announced the government is launching the second phase of education reforms with an outlay of ₹3,500 crore, supported by the World Bank, to further enhance the education sector.

Expressing optimism for the future, Mann stated that Punjab's education model is becoming a national benchmark, envisioning a time when students from countries like Canada and Australia will seek quality education in Punjab.