EDUCATION GETS 26 PERCENT  OF PUNJAB BUDGET; GOVT TO HOLD ARMED FORCES RECRUITMENT CAMPS

Vikram Ditya Sharma/Ferozepore

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today said education was the top priority of his government, with 26 per cent of the state budget allocated to the sector. Addressing the first convocation of Shaheed Bhagat Singh State University, he said the government would also organise recruitment preparation camps for youngsters aspiring to join the armed forces.

In the presence of Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Mann said Punjab was transforming its youth from job seekers into job creators by focusing on education, technical learning, skill development and sports. He urged graduates to become entrepreneurs, professionals and sportspersons rather than limiting their aspirations to conventional careers.

Highlighting improvements in government school education, he said 882 students from government schools had qualified NEET this year, against 80 in 2021.

He said the university, established in 2021 over 98 acres, had more than 2,600 students and its enrolment was expected to double by next year. He described it as an important centre of higher education for the border region.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the allocation of Rs 1,794 crore for sports and Punjab’s achievements in national and international sporting events.

Calling upon parents to encourage their children’s aspirations, he said every child had different strengths and should be allowed to pursue their dreams.

Referring to opportunities in the armed forces, Mann said he had assured the Army Chief and Western Command leadership that the state government would organise awareness and preparation camps to encourage youngsters, particularly from border areas, to join the armed forces, including the Sikh Regiment.

He urged graduates to remain connected with their roots, contribute to Punjab’s development and prepare for competitive examinations such as the UPSC.

Several MLAs, university officials, senior civil and police officers and other dignitaries attended the ceremony.