Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, accompanied by AAP Punjab in-charge and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister Manish Sisodia, inaugurated the 54-day 'Punjab Sikhiya Kranti' drive by unveiling a plaque at the School of Eminence in Nawanshahr.
This initiative marks a significant step in the Kejriwal-Mann government's dual-pronged approach to creating a drug-free Punjab by simultaneously addressing drug abuse and transforming the education system.
As part of the 'Sikhiya Kranti' project, the state government will upgrade infrastructure across 12,000 government schools, backed by a substantial investment of ₹2,000 crore to be implemented within just 54 days. The inaugural plaque, unveiled at the Nawanshahr School of Eminence and valued at ₹5.68 crore, bears the names of both CM Bhagwant Mann and Manish Sisodia, underscoring their commitment to the mission.
During the launch event, Sisodia highlighted the core philosophy behind the campaign, stating that the future of a drug-free Punjab depends on providing quality education to the youth.
He reiterated the mission of Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann to eliminate the drug menace through a combination of strong enforcement against drug traffickers and the creation of world-class educational opportunities that steer children away from substance abuse.
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Chief Minister Mann reflected on the educational challenges of the past, where many families had to give up on private schooling due to unaffordable fees. He recalled the government's promise to change this scenario three years ago, drawing inspiration from Delhi’s educational reforms.
Mann pointed out that Punjab is now reaping the benefits of Delhi’s successful model, with modernized schools and upgraded facilities across the state. In a move to further strengthen the education system, the government is also sending teachers for advanced training programs in Singapore, Finland, and IIM Ahmedabad.
Reaffirming the government’s twin priorities, Mann stressed that the crackdown on drug smugglers and peddlers is being matched by an equally aggressive educational overhaul. The ultimate goal, he said, is to provide Punjab’s children with the best possible education while ensuring a safe, drug-free future for the state.
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