To enhance law enforcement and curb crime, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday announced the modernization of the Punjab Police with state-of-the-art infrastructure. As part of the initiative, he flagged off 139 new vehicles for police stations across the State, reaffirming his government’s commitment to equipping law enforcement with the latest resources.
Mann, speaking at the event, emphasized that the distribution of these vehicles directly to police stations marked a departure from past practices where only senior officers benefitted. “For the first time, SHOs — who are the real face of the Punjab Police — are being given priority. They are the first responders to any crime, and they need to be well-equipped to maintain law and order,” he said.
The Chief Minister underlined the growing challenges of maintaining security in Punjab, a border state often targeted by external forces. He stressed that an advanced and modernized police force is crucial for countering criminal activities, particularly in areas like cybercrime, narcotics smuggling, and organized crime.
“To stay ahead of criminals, our police force must adopt new-age investigation techniques and technological advancements. We are ensuring that Punjab Police is not just strong but also scientifically equipped to face modern-day security threats,” he stated.
Addressing Punjab’s long-standing drug problem, Mann revealed that 70 percent of the drugs entering the state come via drones from Pakistan. However, he noted that the introduction of anti-drone technology and collaboration with the Border Security Force (BSF) has significantly reduced smuggling operations. “The latest BSF report indicates a sharp decline in cross-border drug consignments due to our stringent enforcement,” he added.
Mann reiterated his government’s commitment to break the backbone of drug cartels. “For the first time, we are not just arresting small-time peddlers but going after the big fish. We have seized and demolished properties of drug smugglers, ensuring that crime does not pay,” he declared.
To strengthen law enforcement, the Punjab Government has introduced an annual recruitment plan for 2,100 new police personnel, including 1,800 constables and 300 sub-inspectors. Mann highlighted that over 2.5 lakh young candidates apply for these positions each year, leading to a positive shift where youth are focusing on academics and physical fitness instead of falling prey to substance abuse.
“This recruitment process is not just about increasing the number of police officers; it is about engaging Punjab’s youth in constructive pursuits and keeping them away from the influence of drugs,” he said.
Beyond law enforcement, the Chief Minister also emphasized his government’s record-breaking employment drive, which has provided nearly 55,000 government jobs in 36 months. “Unlike previous regimes, where nepotism and corruption dictated employment opportunities, we have ensured a fair and transparent hiring process solely based on merit,” Mann asserted.
He further reinforced his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. “No corrupt officer will be spared. We are committed to a transparent and responsive government that delivers citizen-centric services at their doorstep,” he stated.
In another major initiative aimed at shaping Punjab’s future generations, the state government has introduced a mentorship program where senior IAS and IPS officers will guide students from government schools. Each officer will adopt a school and engage with students, inspiring them to excel academically and consider careers in civil services.
“This is not just about education; it is about shaping dreams. By fostering direct interaction between students and top bureaucrats, we hope to instill confidence and ambition in our youth,” Mann said.
