The Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab announced that it has provided over 65,000 government jobs in the past four years, describing the initiative as an “Employment Revolution.” Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presented these figures as evidence of a transparent and merit-based recruitment system implemented by his administration.
According to data shared by the party’s Punjab unit, a total of 65,264 jobs have been distributed across multiple departments, with the government claiming that the process was carried out without corruption or favoritism.
The education sector received the highest number of appointments, with 16,308 jobs, followed by 12,966 recruitments in the Punjab Police and 8,306 in the electricity department. Additional hiring included 6,176 positions in the health and medical education sectors and 5,556 jobs in local government bodies, along with other departmental recruitments.
While addressing the media, Mann reiterated that the hiring process was conducted fairly, emphasizing that candidates were selected without the use of money or recommendations. He stated that individuals from both rural and urban areas benefited equally from these opportunities.
He further noted that the availability of jobs within the state has influenced many young people to shift their focus from pursuing opportunities abroad to preparing for competitive exams locally. According to him, candidates who previously aimed for overseas prospects or IELTS preparation are now increasingly considering government employment within Punjab.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that age limits for several positions were relaxed by up to five years, allowing candidates who had missed earlier opportunities due to delays under previous governments to apply.
Criticising earlier administrations, Mann alleged that recruitment processes were often delayed or entangled in legal complications, which resulted in many aspirants becoming over-aged and losing opportunities. In contrast, he described his government’s approach as more efficient and fair.
He also highlighted that some candidates have progressed to better roles after initially securing government jobs, suggesting the development of a more dynamic employment environment.
The announcement is expected to remain a significant political point for the ruling party as it continues to highlight its governance record, particularly in job creation, ahead of upcoming electoral contests in the state.
