Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday sharply criticized the traditional political parties for neglecting the border region and tarnishing the future of its youth for political gain. Mann, speaking at the inauguration of the newly-upgraded sugar mill in Batala, emphasized his Government’s commitment to revitalizing the region, which he said had been ignored despite its people’s significant contributions to the nation.
Mann unveiled the state-of-the-art sugar mill, constructed at a cost of Rs 296 crore, as a step towards regional development. The mill, with a daily crushing capacity of 3,500 tons of sugarcane and a 14 MW co-generation plant, will also produce refined sugar — the first cooperative mill in Punjab to achieve this milestone. “This plant is not just an economic boost but also an environmentally friendly facility that will process over 150 tons of waste daily and produce 20 tons of organic fertilizer,” Mann stated.
The mill, equipped with cutting-edge technology, includes a pipeline for injecting 100 percent gas, making it the first of its kind in India. According to Mann, this initiative will significantly reduce pollution levels, equivalent to eliminating the environmental impact of 30,000 cars. The Chief Minister announced that the mill aims to crush 35 lakh quintals of sugarcane this season, benefiting local farmers and boosting the regional economy.
During the event, Mann took pride in Punjab’s record-high sugarcane rates, which he said were unmatched globally. “Our government is committed to providing the highest rates to sugarcane farmers, ensuring their prosperity and strengthening Punjab’s agrarian economy,” he said.
Reflecting on Punjab’s rich history, Mann highlighted the bravery and resilience of the people in border districts, calling them the backbone of the state’s cultural and economic identity. He assured that his government was focused on correcting historical neglect by fostering development projects and promoting harmony across the state.
The Chief Minister also used the platform to reiterate his government’s focus on core sectors like health, education, power, and infrastructure. Mann said that these priorities are redefining national politics, contrasting sharply with the “hatred and divisiveness” fostered by past regimes.
Taking a dig at opposition parties, Mann remarked, “Those who boasted of ruling for 25 years have been relegated to political oblivion by the people’s will.” He also assured that projects like the upgraded sugar mill would create job opportunities for local youth, reversing the trend of migration and contributing to Punjab’s socio-economic progress.
Concluding with an appeal to embrace environmental sustainability, Mann cited Gurbani, urging the public to preserve the state’s natural heritage and work towards making Punjab clean, green, and prosperous.
