Unlike Gujarat Not a single paper leak has occurred in Punjab in the last four years: CM Mann

Addressing a press conference, CM Mann emphasised that government schools now stand at par with private institutions. “From April 1, parents will be informed about their child’s absence and teachers’ leave, ensuring accountability at every level. Unlike several states, especially Gujarat, not a single paper leak has occurred in Punjab in the last four years, which is a matter of immense pride,” he said.

Highlighting financial commitment, he said the education budget has increased from ₹12,657 crore in 2021–22 to ₹19,279 crore in 2026–27, with the second phase of the Education Revolution worth ₹3,500 crore launched in partnership with the World Bank—the largest education reform program in the country.

Punjab secured the top position in the National Achievement Survey 2024, surpassing Kerala, while Gujarat ranked 16th and Haryana around 7th or 8th. Government school students scored 18% above the national average, with 740 clearing JEE and 1,284 NEET in recent years.

Institutional reforms include 118 Schools of Eminence (60 operational), free uniforms for 30,000 students, coaching for NEET, JEE, CLAT, and Armed Forces exams, and free bus services for 15,500 girls. Since April 2022, 14,525 teachers recruited and 12,316 staff regularised, with world-class training for principals and teachers. International programs included training in Singapore, Finland, the USA, and leadership courses at IIM Ahmedabad.

Infrastructure upgrades feature high-speed fiber Wi-Fi across all government schools, classrooms, science and computer labs, multipurpose rooms, playgrounds, medical rooms, separate toilets, and 25 schools named after martyrs and eminent personalities. Innovation initiatives include the Business Blaster scheme, generating ₹70 crore from student ideas, and the introduction of Entrepreneurship as a subject in Class 11.

Higher education reforms include the Digital Open University Policy-2026, a new world-class university at Sri Anandpur Sahib in Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s name, online admissions for government colleges, and ten new degree colleges, including one at Bikraur, Ajnala. Punjabi language and culture initiatives feature digitisation of 18,550 books, preservation of 592 rare manuscripts, and the Shabdmala E-Dictionary app.

CM Mann concluded, “Education contributes the most to the progress of any state. Over the past four years, we have given it the highest priority. Punjab’s government schools now stand at par with private institutions, and our model is being discussed across the country.” Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains and other officials were also present.