Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday positioned Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the next big turning point for Punjab’s agriculture, arguing that traditional farming has hit its limits and can no longer sustain farmers’ incomes. Making a strong case for technological intervention, he said the move is aimed at reversing declining profitability, reducing pressure on natural resources, and securing the future of farmers.

At the same time, he sharpened his political attack on the opposition, calling them out for pushing Punjab into crisis through years of neglect, and asserted that his government is now rebuilding the state with reform-driven policies focused on farmers, infrastructure, and welfare.

Addressing the state-level Kisan Mela at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab has been the food bowl of the country, making India self-reliant in food production. The hardworking and resilient farmers of the state scripted a new chapter during the Green Revolution of the 1960s. However, in serving the nation, farmers have sacrificed precious natural resources like fertile soil and water.”

He noted the growing crisis in agriculture, stating, “With shrinking profit margins, agriculture is no longer a profitable proposition, and farmers are struggling for basic subsistence. The production potential of existing crop technologies has nearly plateaued. To enhance real farm incomes and check over-exploitation of resources, it is imperative to introduce AI in agriculture.”

Highlighting the benefits of the move, the Chief Minister said, “This technology will guide farmers on what crops to sow and when, to maximise both profit and productivity. Punjab has always been a frontrunner in adopting innovation, and AI will revolutionise this sector. Its introduction is the need of the hour to safeguard farmers’ interests.”

Listing pro-farmer initiatives, he continued, “For the first time, more than eight hours of uninterrupted power was supplied to farm tube wells during the paddy season. Farmers are now receiving daytime electricity for irrigation, transforming their lives. Punjab farmers are also getting the highest sugarcane price in the country at ₹416 per quintal. Every year, around ₹80,000 crore is paid to farmers for wheat and paddy procurement, with payments transferred directly to bank accounts within 24 hours. Between 2022 and 2025, ₹6,700 crore has been spent on canal lining, repair, and modernisation, which is 300% more than previous years. Canal irrigation usage has increased from 20.90 lakh acres in 2022 to 58 lakh acres today.”

Emphasising irrigation expansion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Canal irrigation capacity has doubled, with irrigated area rising from 2.23 million acres in 2022 to 5.8 million acres in 2025. As many as 15,539 canals have been cleaned and 18,349 water channels restored. Canal water has reached 1,444 villages after decades. Additionally, 101 abandoned canals spanning 545 km have been revived, and the Ferozepur Feeder Canal was upgraded in a record 35 days, increasing capacity by 2,682 cusecs.”

He added that after 75 years, the Sirhind Canal has been upgraded, increasing its capacity by 2,844 cusecs. The 22-km-long Sarhali Minor canal, buried underground for decades, has been traced and made operational again. The Bhakra Canal has a capacity of 9,500 cusecs, but we have increased supply to 10,000 cusecs, effectively creating a new canal without acquiring a single inch of land. For decades, farmers depended on rotational water supply, but this system has now ended, providing major relief. Despite having just 3% of the country’s agricultural land, Punjab contributes around 40% of wheat and 31% of rice to the national pool. Punjab is rightly called the Food Bowl of India, and farmers along with PAU have played a crucial role.”

Highlighting academic excellence, he noted, “As per the National Institutional Ranking Framework, PAU ranked first among 75 public agricultural universities in 2023, 2024, and 2025. According to EduRank, it is among the top 100 institutions globally. The government is committed to further upgrading its infrastructure.”

Highlighting diversification, the Chief Minister added, “A ₹1,300 crore project supported by JICA has been approved to expand horticulture. Investments in machinery, infrastructure, marketing, seeds, and research will increase horticulture area from 3.56 lakh hectares to 16 lakh hectares by 2036, a 300% rise. Punjab is also likely to host the Asia Cup Hockey after a long gap.”

Pointing to women-centric welfare, he further added, “Under the Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana, every woman will receive ₹1,000 per month, and ₹1,500 for Scheduled Caste women. Funds will be directly transferred to bank accounts, and even those receiving pensions will be eligible. Around 97% of women will benefit, with ₹9,300 crore allocated. Registration begins from April 13. Those mocking this scheme do not understand the value of ₹1,000 for common people. Those who spend over ₹5,000 on a single meal from illegally earned money fail to appreciate its importance. Their families may not need it, but for ordinary people, it is meaningful support.”

Targeting the opposition, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “While the government works tirelessly for people’s welfare, opposition leaders only seek a share in success. These forces promoted drugs and crime, which is why people removed them from power. Now they have united again, and Punjabis must unite to defeat them. I have no share in buses, dhabas, sand, or liquor businesses. My only share is in the pain of Punjabis, and I am committed to addressing their problems. Traditional leaders ruined Punjab, and their hands are stained with its suffering. Punjab was once a prosperous state, but greedy leaders destroyed it for personal gain. People have already taught them a lesson, and the time is coming to push them into complete political oblivion.”

Taking aim at Akali leadership, he said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal is the biggest and a chronic liar, driven only by selfish motives. The Badal family only waits for power to plunder the state. They have no concern for Punjab or its people and only seek to misuse power.”

He further listed initiatives by the AAP government, stating, “The government has launched a major programme to repair 43,000 km of link roads across Punjab. Along with repair, their maintenance will also be ensured for the next five years. The state organised events to mark the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji with reverence. Nagar Kirtans were held across the state, culminating at Sri Anandpur Sahib. A special Vidhan Sabha session was also held there on November 24, 2025 to pay tributes.”

On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian and others were also present.

Punjab’s industrial revival story under the AAP-led government received a major push as Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated Tata Steel’s second-largest plant in India in Ludhiana, positioning it as proof of a decisive policy shift from the past. With thousands of jobs promised and green energy-driven steel production launched for the first time in the country, the CM drew a sharp contrast with previous governments, asserting that industries that once left Punjab due to flawed policies are now returning under a pro-industry regime. The plant, set up in Ludhiana at a cost of ₹3200 crore, marks a major step towards transforming Punjab’s industrial landscape.

Addressing the gathering after unveiling Tata Steel’s second-largest plant, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann stated, “This is a momentous day as history has been created to give a major fillip to the economic development of the state. Today Punjab has become the first state in India to start steel production using green energy through this Electric Arc Furnace-based plant. It is a red-letter day for Punjab as Tata Steel has taken responsibility to illuminate the future of 2600 to 2700 families directly and 8000–10,000 indirectly. This world-class plant is equipped with cutting-edge green energy technology.”

Congratulating the Tata Steel team, he said, “When a company like Tata Steel invests in a state, it reflects trust, confidence and belief in its future. Tata Steel’s presence sends a clear message that Punjab is ready for the next phase of industrial growth. This investment is not just a project, but an opportunity for the youth of Punjab, our engineers, our skilled workforce and for Punjab’s manufacturing sector to grow stronger.”

Emphasising the future vision, the Chief Minister continued, “Punjab has always been a land of entrepreneurs and cities like Ludhiana are globally recognised for their entrepreneurial spirit, hard work and manufacturing strength. With modern facilities like this Tata Steel plant, we are strengthening our legacy and preparing Punjab for the future of manufacturing. This is Tata Steel’s first Electric Arc Furnace-based plant in India, which shows that Punjab is attracting not just investment, but modern and future-ready investment. Such production reflects the global shift towards efficiency, sustainability and better use of resources.”

Reiterating the government’s industrial vision, he asserted, “We want Punjab to become one of the most preferred industrial destinations in India. We want companies to see Punjab not just as a market, but as a long-term manufacturing partner. Tata Group is globally known for its social responsibility, and Ratan Tata had always led from the front in this regard.”

Recalling a personal example, he shared that Ratan Tata had even started a dog shelter at Bombay House for stray dogs after seeing them struggle during the monsoon. Describing him as the ‘Desh ka Beta’, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that when he passed away, the entire nation mourned his contribution to nation-building and reputation. Punjab is proud to be the first state to start steel production using green energy.

Recalling his visit to Japan, the Chief Minister added, “Countries like Japan are already moving towards large-scale use of green energy, and this project reflects that Punjab is investing in the future. Punjab’s strong air, rail and road connectivity makes it an ideal destination for business. We have raised the issue of starting more flights to Europe and other Western countries with the Tata Group.”

Describing Punjab’s legacy, he reiterated that the state is a blessed land of Gurus, saints, seers, martyrs and patriots where every seed can grow except that of hatred. Punjab has contributed immensely to food security and national defence, earning the titles of ‘Food Bowl’ and ‘Sword Arm’ of the country. The plant will act as a major generator of employment across the state.

Highlighting the scale of the project, he added, “Today we are writing history as Tata is not only investing money but also its reputation. The plant, spread over 115 acres, saw its investment rise from ₹2,600 crore to ₹3,200 crore and will use 100% steel scrap as raw material, making it environmentally sustainable. The Tata Group operates in over 100 countries across six continents and employs more than one million people. Punjabis believe in honest and dedicated work, which has always strengthened the bond between industry and workforce. The state government is actively attracting investment to boost industrial growth.”

Detailing achievements, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasised, “Over the past four years, investments worth ₹1.58 lakh crore have been secured, creating employment opportunities for more than five lakh youth. Our approach is simple i.e. stable policies, fast decisions and strong industry partnerships. The state government should act as a facilitator, not an obstacle, and must make it easier for industries to invest and expand.”

Reaffirming commitment, he said, “Punjab is ready, it welcomes investment and supports industry that creates jobs and strengthens the economy. Every new factory and investment helps the state move closer to generating employment. When industries grow, Punjab grows, and when Punjab grows, the country grows. When industry creates jobs, youth find opportunities within the state, putting Punjab on a high growth trajectory. From traditional industry to advanced manufacturing, Punjab is moving towards global competitiveness and a strong industrial ecosystem.”

Appreciating collaboration, the Chief Minister added, “Industrial development is always a partnership. When government and industry work together with trust and clarity, projects move faster and outcomes become stronger.” He expressed hope that this project will become a key pillar in Punjab’s industrial growth story. This project will encourage more companies to look towards Punjab as a serious manufacturing destination.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann assured full support to Tata Steel and the industry, stating that they are partners in Punjab’s progress. “This project is an important milestone in the economic development of the state. It will help transform Punjab into an industrial hub and accelerate economic growth. The day is not far when Punjab will lead the country not only in agriculture but also in industry,” he concluded.

Earlier, Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora welcomed the dignitaries. On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora, Hardeep Singh Mundian, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and others were present.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab State General Secretary and Media Incharge Baltej Pannu turned the ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege) debate back on Shiromani Akali Dal Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, calling him out for attempting to rewrite Punjab’s history to deflect blame. He pointed out that all the most controversial cases trace back to the Akali regime, adding that, faced with growing political irrelevance, Sukhbir Singh Badal is now trying to revive his career by shifting blame onto others, a move the people of Punjab can clearly see through.

Hitting back strongly, AAP Punjab State Media Incharge Baltej Pannu stated, “By holding the AAP government responsible for incidents of ‘beadbi’ (sacrilege), Sukhbir Singh Badal is making a failed attempt to save his political ground, but he has forgotten that the people of Punjab are well aware of his reality.”

Questioning his claims, Baltej Pannu said, “Sukhbir Singh Badal says incidents of ‘beadbi’ began in Punjab after AAP came to power. Perhaps he has forgotten that in 1986, when the Sri Guru Granth Sahib was desecrated in Nakodar and four youths demanding justice were martyred, whose government was in power in Punjab? Was the Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab at that time? The people of Punjab have not forgotten which forces were behind that bloody episode.”

Referring to the 2015 incidents, he continued, “Who was in power when the sacred saroop of Guru Granth Sahib was stolen from Burj Jawahar Singh Wala in June 2015? The desecration of the stolen bir took place in October 2015. During this entire period, the Badal family was in power in Punjab. Was there an AAP government in Punjab at that time?” The truth is that it was your government that patronised the culprits.”

Citing police action and subsequent developments, he added that at Kotkapura’s Chowk, police carried out brutality on peacefully protesting sangat, and during the firing at Behbal Kalan, two innocent Sikhs were martyred. The reports of the Justice Ranjit Singh Commission and the Justice Zora Singh Commission clearly point towards who the real faces behind these incidents were. Today, Sukhbir Singh Badal himself is out on bail in the Kotkapura case. Along with him, Sumedh Saini, Charanjit Sharma, and Umranangal are also out on bail, which stands as testimony to the dark deeds of that regime.

Baltej Pannu said, “The Akali Dal’s rule from 2007 to 2017 is a dark chapter in Punjab’s history. No one else but Sukhbir Singh Badal and his party are responsible for pushing Punjab into an era of drugs, corruption, and ‘beadbi’. To escape their responsibilities, they are now making baseless allegations against AAP, but the people of Punjab will never forget or forgive them.”