Punjab is being developed as a leading education destination, with no shortage of funds allowed to hamper government school upgradation and new career pathways being opened for youth, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said on Sunday, asserting that his government has provided more than 70,000 government jobs purely on merit, on the principle of ‘No Cash No Farmaish’ (without bribes or recommendations). Addressing youngsters at a regional youth festival at Desh Bhagat College in village Bararwal, Dhuri, the Chief Minister urged them to focus on education and hard work, while stressing that Punjab needs elected representatives who understand people’s pain and problems.
Sharing a few snippets from the occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: “Today, I had the opportunity to interact with young people during the Regional Youth Festival at Desh Bhagat College in village Bararwal, Dhuri constituency. Seeing their enthusiasm and artistic talent brought back memories of my own early days, as my journey too began on stages like these. My advice to young people is that participating in these competitions is itself the biggest victory. Those who win should remain humble, while those who lose should work harder. Our government has provided more than 70,000 jobs to young people without any recommendations or bribes. Just focus on your education and hard work. The Punjab Government stands with you at every step.”
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The energy, talent and creativity of young people were among Punjab’s greatest assets, and the state’s future depended on nurturing these qualities and providing youth with meaningful opportunities to excel in every sphere of life.”
The Chief Minister affirmed, “Education must go beyond classrooms, textbooks and examination results. True education lies in developing confident individuals with independent thinking, a strong sense of responsibility, respect for their cultural roots and the courage to pursue their dreams.”
Highlighting the importance of youth festivals, he said that such events enabled students to discover their hidden talents, overcome hesitation, develop self-confidence and learn valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork and healthy competition. “These platforms also allowed students to learn from one another, broaden their horizons and prepare themselves to meet the challenges of the future,” he added.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed happiness over the enthusiastic participation of students from 39 colleges in the festival, with 60 different activities being organised across four stages. “Students are showcasing their artistic abilities, creativity and skills through a wide range of cultural and literary competitions, reflecting the vibrancy and potential of Punjab’s younger generation.” He appreciated the contribution of Punjabi University, Patiala, and its Department of Youth Welfare in organising youth festivals over several decades.
The Chief Minister noted, “These initiatives have played a significant role in nurturing young talent, promoting cultural expression and strengthening the connection between the younger generation and Punjab’s rich heritage.”
Emphasising the importance of cultural activities in shaping well-rounded personalities, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that every student possesses unique abilities and potential. While circumstances and opportunities might differ, determination, dedication and hard work could help young people overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success. “Educational institutions have a responsibility to identify this potential, provide the right environment and ensure that no talent remains undiscovered for want of encouragement,” he added.
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The Chief Minister pointed out, “The purpose of education is not merely to produce degree holders, but to develop enlightened, sensitive and responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully to society.”
He added that activities such as music, dance, theatre, literature and folk arts helped students develop emotional intelligence, creative thinking, mutual respect and a spirit of cooperation, all of which were indispensable for building a progressive society.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab’s cultural heritage is a source of pride and identity for our people. Youth festivals and folk festivals serve as vital links between generations, ensuring that the state’s traditional art forms, folk music, dances and indigenous games continued to flourish.”
Encouraging young people to remain connected with their roots while exploring new ideas, the Chief Minister said, “Such platforms strike a meaningful balance between cultural preservation and modern aspirations. Opportunities to participate in regional, inter-zonal and national-level events motivate students to set higher goals and demonstrate their abilities on bigger platforms. These experiences broaden the outlook of students, strengthen their confidence and inspire them to strive for excellence beyond the confines of their educational institutions,” he said.
Describing the Youth Festival as a meaningful initiative towards the all-round development of students, he said, “Investing in young people means investing in Punjab’s future. Youth must be encouraged to use their abilities constructively, pursue excellence in their chosen fields and play an active role in the state’s social, cultural and economic progress.”
“A ‘Rangla Punjab’ can be built only when its youth are empowered with knowledge, confidence, creativity and a strong sense of purpose,” he said.
The Chief Minister said, “Platforms which encourage talent, celebrate cultural diversity and instill positive values help transform students into capable leaders and responsible citizens.” He called upon students to dream big, work hard and never underestimate their potential.
Urging young people to remain rooted in their cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the aspirations and achievements of Punjab’s youth would play a decisive role in shaping the state’s future. “The Youth Festival is a celebration of young talent, a tribute to Punjab’s cultural richness and a reminder that when young people are provided with the right platforms, encouragement and opportunities, they can emerge as the driving force behind a stronger, more vibrant and ‘Rangla Punjab’,” he affirmed.
