Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has presented a detailed account of his government’s performance in the education sector, describing the past four years as a period of transformative reform marked by higher investment, improved infrastructure, and measurable academic progress.
Speaking under the “Shandaar Char Saal Bhagwant Mann de naal” campaign, Mann characterised the changes as an “education revolution,” asserting that government schools in Punjab have been reshaped into competitive, outcome-oriented institutions. He highlighted a significant rise in the education budget, which increased from Rs 12,657 crore in 2021–22 to Rs 19,279 crore in 2026–27, reflecting a sustained focus on strengthening the sector.
A key component of this transformation, according to Mann, has been large-scale infrastructure development. Schools across the state have undergone upgrades, including modern classrooms, science and computer laboratories, libraries, playgrounds, and improved sanitation facilities. High-speed internet connectivity has also been introduced, aiming to integrate digital learning into everyday education.
Mann emphasised that the reforms were not limited to physical improvements but also extended to academic outcomes. He noted that Punjab secured the top position in the National Achievement Survey 2024, with government school students performing significantly above the national average. He also pointed to growing success in competitive exams, with hundreds of students qualifying in examinations such as JEE and NEET, indicating improved academic preparedness.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of credibility in public education, stating that efforts have been made to bridge the long-standing gap between private and government schools. According to him, parents now increasingly view government institutions as viable alternatives due to better facilities and teaching standards.
Institutional innovation has been another focus area. Mann highlighted the establishment of Schools of Eminence, designed to provide specialised and career-oriented education. With dozens of such schools already operational, the initiative aims to create high-quality public institutions that can compete with elite private schools.
Teacher development and recruitment have also played a central role in the reforms. Thousands of new teachers have been appointed, and the services of many existing staff members have been regularised. Additionally, educators have been sent for international training programmes in countries such as Singapore and Finland, while leadership training has been conducted at premier Indian institutions. These initiatives are intended to improve teaching quality and administrative efficiency within schools.
To strengthen accountability and engagement, the government has introduced mechanisms to keep parents informed about student attendance and teacher availability. Large-scale parent-teacher interactions have also been आयोजित, involving millions of participants, to build stronger connections between schools and communities.
Mann also highlighted inclusive measures aimed at improving access to education, particularly for girls. Free transportation services have been introduced for female students in government schools and Schools of Eminence, reducing barriers to attendance.
Beyond academics, the government has introduced programmes to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among students. Initiatives like the Business Blaster programme have enabled students to develop business ideas and generate revenue, promoting practical learning and skill development.
The Chief Minister also stressed that examination integrity has been maintained, contrasting Punjab’s record with reported paper leak incidents in other states. He asserted that no such incidents have occurred in Punjab during the past four years, positioning this as a sign of improved governance and system reliability.
Looking ahead, Mann announced the launch of the next phase of education reforms, backed by a substantial financial outlay and external support. This phase is expected to build on existing progress and further strengthen the education system.
Overall, the government’s report card presents a narrative of sustained investment, systemic reform, and improved outcomes, while also framing education as a central tool for social mobility and long-term development in the state.
