Punjab to get 6 Working Women Hostels

The government will construct six working women hostels in Mohali, Jalandhar, Amritsar, and Bathinda, accommodating 800 women at a cost of Rs 150 crore. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur, responding to a query by AAP MLA Kulwant Singh, said that construction will begin in May 2025 and conclude by March 2026
 
MGNREGA Workers to be registered Under BOCW Welfare Board

Punjab plans to include MGNREGA workers under the Building and Other Construction Workers' (BOCW) Welfare Board, said Labour Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, responding to a query by AAP MLA Dinesh Chadha. Sond highlighted that 11.16 lakh construction workers are currently registered, marking a rise of 1.52 lakh since 2022. Workers must apply with a Rs 145 fee. To ease registration, the Punjab Kirti Sahayak app allows workers to enroll from home. The government is also conducting awareness camps to boost registrations and ensure access to welfare benefits.
 
Engineering Course to Follow Industry-Based Learning Model

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Technical University, Bathinda, will launch an industry-integrated engineering course where 80 percent of learning will take place in companies, similar to MBBS internships. Industry partners will set up campuses within their facilities to enhance students’ practical knowledge. Addressing concerns about fresh graduates lacking hands-on experience, the government will also establish 40 new skill schools, introduce ITI courses, and issue skill certificates post-Class X and XII. With a Rs 1,650 crore education budget, Guru Nanak Dev University will get new courses and an AI lab, said Education Minister Harjot Bains, in response to a query by AAP MLA Kunwar Vijay Partap Singh.
 
Punjab to Introduce 50 New Courses, Dual Degree Progs

The government will launch 50 new courses and implement a dual-degree program in collaboration with foreign universities, said Education Minister Bains. This initiative aims to enhance academic diversity and employability. The discussion was sparked by MLA Kunwar Vijay Pratap, who raised concerns about faculty shortages in various institutions.