The Punjab government, led by AAP, has been offering 600 units of free electricity to each household per billing cycle since 2022, benefiting 90% of households. Additionally, they have allocated Rs 968 crore for compensating crop loss due to monsoon floods. The cost of doorstep service delivery has been reduced from Rs 120 to Rs 50, and dues of six lakh employees have been cleared.
In a year-end report, Punjab’s Finance Minister, Harpal Singh Cheema, highlighted the state’s strong fiscal management, infrastructure investments, and significant digital advancements. The Finance Department is now focused on innovation rather than just fund distribution, with a commitment to directly benefit the common man.
The government’s priority remains ensuring the well-being of its citizens, as evidenced by various initiatives. These include compensating farmers for crop losses, reducing service delivery costs, and providing free electricity to a majority of households. The government has also implemented the Sixth Punjab Pay Commission and is working on settling outstanding dues from the previous administration.
To enhance grassroots development, the government has allocated funds for various schemes, including the Rangla Punjab Vikas Scheme. Significant investments have been made in connectivity and sports infrastructure, with projects aimed at improving road networks and constructing new rural link roads. The government is also focusing on education and health sectors, with initiatives like the POISE program and the Mukh Mantri Sehat Bima Yojana.
The Finance Minister emphasized the state’s digital transformation through the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) and other technological advancements. Punjab has been successful in optimizing cash liquidity and reducing unutilized funds through efficient financial management practices. The government has also introduced online portals for pensioners and audit management to enhance transparency and accountability.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Punjab has achieved a balance between grassroots development and modern financial technology, as highlighted by the Finance Minister in the year-end review.
