Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab over the growing drug menace, crime and corruption, alleging that the state was facing serious challenges relating to employment and the future of its youth.
Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the regional office and Arogya Kendra of Bharat Vikas Parishad at Chhatwal in Pathankot, Saini said it was concerning that Punjab, which once led the country in several fields, was now struggling with problems affecting its younger generation.
He appealed to the people of Punjab to reflect on the prevailing situation and work collectively towards restoring the state's prosperity and progress.
Saini said everyone must come together to rebuild a vibrant and prosperous "Rangla Punjab".
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The Chief Minister questioned the fairness and transparency of government recruitment in Punjab, contrasting it with what he described as Haryana's merit-based employment system.
He claimed that nearly two lakh young people had secured government jobs in Haryana over the past 12 years through a transparent recruitment process based entirely on merit and eligibility.
Saini said the Haryana government had eliminated the need for job aspirants to approach MLAs, ministers or even the Chief Minister to secure employment.
He maintained that recruitment was now determined strictly by candidates' qualifications and performance, without political recommendations or undue influence.
The Chief Minister also claimed that the confidentiality of candidates' identities was maintained during the selection process to ensure fairness and prevent interference.
He said the system had strengthened transparency and provided equal opportunities to deserving candidates, irrespective of their social or economic backgrounds.
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Highlighting farmer welfare initiatives, Saini said the Haryana government was procuring all crops grown in the state at Minimum Support Price (MSP).
He said the government had already announced sugarcane procurement prices for the next two crushing seasons, fixing the rate at Rs 430 per quintal for 2026-27 and Rs 450 per quintal for 2027-28.
According to the Chief Minister, the revised rates would increase sugarcane farmers' income by approximately Rs 10,000 to Rs 11,000 per acre.
He said the measures reflected the government's commitment to supporting agricultural livelihoods and ensuring remunerative prices for farmers.
๐ฆ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ ๐ต๐๐บ๐ฎ๐ป๐ถ๐๐
Speaking about Bharat Vikas Parishad, Saini described the organisation as a living embodiment of the spirit of service to humanity and nationalism.
He said it was a privilege to inaugurate two projects of an organisation dedicated to serving people in accordance with the Gurus' message of "Sarbat Da Bhala", or welfare of all.
The Chief Minister said Bharat Vikas Parishad, established in 1963, drew inspiration from the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, who envisioned an India that was self-confident, proud of its cultural heritage and committed to serving humanity.
He praised the organisation's efforts to promote social welfare and community service.
Referring to Pathankot's historical significance, Saini said the region's traditions of religious faith and valour continued to inspire successive generations.
He cited the forts of Shahpur Kandi and Nurpur as enduring reminders of the area's rich historical heritage and the bravery of Rajput rulers.
Saini said the values of service, unity and collective welfare remained essential to building a stronger society and ensuring progress for future generations.