Manpreet Singh
Faridkot, August 15 (Vipin Mittal): The **state-level Independence Day celebration** by the Punjab Government was held with great pomp and show in **Faridkot**, where **Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann** hoisted the national flag at **Nehru Stadium**. Following the flag hoisting, he inspected the parade and delivered a speech. The Chief Minister **honored 26 individuals** from various fields for their outstanding work, along with **police personnel** and **families of freedom fighters**. On this occasion, **4 police employees were awarded the ‘Chief Minister Rakshak Medal’**, and **15 officers and employees were honored with the ‘Chief Minister Medal’** in recognition of their services to the Punjab Police.
*Key Announcements and Highlights from CM Mann’s Speech:**
* **Martyrs’ Families Support:**
The CM stated that the government provides **financial assistance of ₹1 crore** to the families of martyrs.
* **Road Infrastructure Plan:**
A plan has been prepared to **repair 19,000 kilometers of roads**, with identification already completed. Work will begin soon after the monsoon ends.
* **Village Pond Revitalization:**
Village ponds are being restored using **Thapar and Sinchewal models**. Officers have been deployed to oversee rural development.
* **Corruption-Free Land Registry System:**
CM Mann claimed that **corruption has been eradicated** in Tehsils. A new **easy registry system** has been implemented, allowing registration in **Punjabi** and **from anywhere in Punjab** at the user’s convenience.
* **Massive Investment & Employment Boost:**
He announced that **₹1.14 lakh crore investment** has come into Punjab, creating pathways for **employment for 4 lakh youth**. Reputed companies like **Tata Steel** have set up in the state. The overall **environment has improved**, and **law and order are strong**.
* **Road Safety Force Success:**
Earlier, **5,000 people died annually** in road accidents in Punjab—about **16 deaths per day**. After coming to power, the government established a **Road Safety Force** with **5,000 deployed police personnel**, modern vehicles, and facilities.
According to a claim by the **Central Government**, **deaths from road accidents in Punjab have dropped by 48%** since the force was established.
