Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Regularizes Jobs of 378 Forest Dept Contract Workers

 In a landmark reform, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has formalized the regularization of 378 contractual workers from the state's Forest Department. The announcement brings long-awaited relief to workers who had been employed without job security or benefits. 

ਜੰਗਲਾਤ ਵਿਭਾਗ ਦੇ ਰੈਗੂਲਰ ਕੀਤੇ ਕਾਮਿਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਨਿਯੁਕਤੀ ਪੱਤਰ ਵੰਡਦੇ ਹੋਏ CM ਭਗਵੰਤ ਮਾਨ ਜੀ Live https://t.co/dTdYjw7HI7

— AAP Punjab (@AAPPunjab) July 30, 2025

Government Moves Ahead with Regularization

Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchakk, speaking at the cabinet meeting, confirmed the regularization decision, stating that these daily-wage employees had served under precarious conditions for years. He praised the CM's commitment to employee rights, contrasting the current administration’s approach with former governments, which he accused of delaying such reform.

Officials stated that Bhagwant Mann will personally distribute appointment letters to all 378 workers, marking a new chapter in employment practices within the department. The initiative is part of the broader AAP-led government’s pledge to generate a record number of jobs through transparent and merit-based recruitment.

Employment Drive Continues

This move is consistent with the state government’s wider efforts: over the past three years, more than 54,000 government jobs have been created across various departments, including health, education, agriculture, and sanitation. In May alone, CM Mann handed over 450 appointment letters to new recruits, urging them to serve as "foot soldiers" against corruption and drug abuse in Punjab.

According to official statistics, the state government has consistently recruited over 2,000 youth per month, a feat unseen in previous administrations.

CM Message to Appointees

Addressing the newly regularized forest department staff, CM Mann emphasised that all appointments have been made based on merit, following fair and competitive procedures. He underscored the importance of their roles in environmental stewardship and urged them to approach their responsibilities with dedication and integrity.

Broader Impact & Looking Ahead

The decision to regularize forest department employees not only addresses long-standing job insecurity but also sets a precedent for other sectors. Trade unions and labor rights groups welcomed the move, stating it reflects the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on irregular employment practices.

With this latest reform, CM Mann continues to solidify his government’s image as pro-youth, pro merit, and committed to eradicating systemic injustice. The initiative also strengthens local governance by bringing dedicated workers into formal service in sectors crucial to Punjab’s ecological and social well-being.