Punjab’s Revolutionary Education Budget: ₹19,279 Crore for Transformation

Chandigarh, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema recently announced a significant budget of ₹19,279 crore for the education sector for the fiscal year 2026-27. This initiative aims to redesign the education ecosystem in Punjab to better serve future generations.

During the budget presentation in the state Assembly, Cheema emphasized that educational reforms in Punjab are transitioning from mere promises to a structural transformation.

"In the past four years, our focus has been on enhancing infrastructure, improving foundational learning, and establishing centers of excellence within government schools," he stated.

He noted that the budget for 2026-27 reflects a 7% increase compared to the previous year, marking a new phase of consolidation and expansion in educational reform.

Cheema highlighted that quality education is crucial for Punjab's competitiveness on a global scale, stressing that education must not be treated as just another department but as a mission.

Under the 'Punjab Sikhiya Kranti' initiative, the government has made a historic commitment to prioritize education with substantial reforms and investments. He asserted that excellence in education should be a right for every child, not a privilege.

To further this mission, the state will launch 'Sikhiya Kranti 2.0', allocating ₹3,500 crore over the next six years to transform the education system.

In collaboration with the World Bank, Punjab is poised to undertake one of the largest educational reform investments in its history. This initiative aims to enhance foundational literacy and numeracy, expand academic streams, empower educators, and modernize governance.

This year alone, ₹690 crore has been earmarked to strengthen school infrastructure. Additionally, partnerships with reputable coaching institutions will provide professional preparation within government schools.

The government is determined to ensure that every student in Punjab can compete on equal footing for national and international opportunities, regardless of their background. A statewide Career Counselling Framework will be established, impacting approximately 7.35 lakh students from grades IX to XII.

In summary, Punjab is not just reforming its schools; it is fundamentally redesigning its entire education ecosystem, paving the way for a brighter future for its youth.